Editor,
A recent letter to the editor expressed concern regarding the proposed bond to secure park lands and the remonstrance process, and I’d like to provide additional information.
Westfield Washington Township received certification from the Voter Registration Office that the remonstrance against the proposed Park Bond Series issuance received the qualified number of valid signatures. In response, the township board approved moving forward with a petition drive to continue its efforts to secure park lands for the future and health of our community. As part of our township duty to notify the public of upcoming actions and next steps, a public notice was published on Monday (Dec. 17). Jan. 16 will begin the period in which a petition in favor of or against the proposed park bond may be signed by registered voters or taxpayers in Westfield Washington Township.
The township board members clearly outlined and supported acquiring property for green space and natural areas to be preserved in the 2016-2020 Township Strategic Plan and Parks and Open Space Master Plan. Our strategic plan includes goals to be accomplished within the four-year time period including land acquisition for these opportunities. The township shared the 2016-2020 Township Strategic Plan with more than 38,600 township residents and business owners through many community engagements and communications outlets.
The township office will continue to keep the community up-to-date on this process, and I urge you to get involved, no matter what side of the issue you believe to be the best pathway forward. Through active public participation and information sharing, the township office will follow the will of the people in this matter.
Danielle Carey Tolan, trustee
