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Blairstown Open Space Committee |
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As an introduction as to what we are and what we do, we'll answer some of the basic who, what, where questions. Who Are We? |
| We are a group of residents trying to retain our rural character by permanently preserving land. |
| We Are: |
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Chris D'Amato |
908-362-8947 |
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Barbara Green |
908-362-6811 |
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Tom Gross |
908-362-6229 |
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Jane Santini |
908-496-4091 |
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Joel McGreen |
908-362-7484 |
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Nicholas Mohr |
973-271-8617 (cell) |
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Thomas Palmieri |
908-362-8884 |
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Richard Mach, Liaison |
908-459-4274 |
What is Open Space?
Generally, there are three main elements (the variations are endless):
Farmland Preservation: Landowner sells the "development rights" to his/her property. Property continues
as a farm, can be sold or leased, but will always remain a farm.
Recreation: Usually involves an outright sale and purchase. Property is used for active (ball fields,
tennis courts, etc.) or passive (hiking, fishing, etc.) recreation.
Nature Preserve:The land has unique features that provide habitat for rare plants and animals
Where do We Look?
Anywhere in Blairstown with at least 20-25 acres. Obviously, the larger the better because we can save
more land and usually get a better price per acre for larger parcels. However, the biggest, most important
factor in land preservation is the landowner's willingness and desire to preserve his/her property.
How do we Preserve Land?
The current 4-cent tax generates about $90,000 each year. Not a great sum when trying to buy land so we leverage
that amount with state, county, and non-profit funds to maximize our purchasing power.
We have applied for and received a Green Acres "Planning Incentive Grant" for $750,000 which will provide 50%
of an outright purchase. We can get help with our 50% by applying to the county or non-profits for help.
We have also applied for a Farmland Planning Incentive Grant to the state and county for about $1 million in funding.
We hope to find out this summer whether we are successful.
We are also working with the Ridge & Valley Conservancy and Knowlton Township on several other projects to preserve
properties in Blairstown.
When (How Long Before) Is It Preserved?
As we have found, it does take time. It normally takes about 2 years from the submission of an application to the closing.
We have been told that the process can be accelerated if the landowners require a quick turnaround.
Why do we Preserve Land?
First and foremost, we want to preserve the rural atmosphere of Blairstown. Secondly, in the long run, it makes financial sense.
Taxes on new homes don't fully fund all the services (primarily education costs, but also roads, plowing, police, etc.) new homes
and residents require. The difference is made up by the rest of us.
In the final analysis, we should preserve as much of the natural beauty
of Blairstown as possible for our children and grandchildren.