‘Put Our Money Where Our Mouth Is’
To the Editor:
It is very clear to so many residents that there has been an excessive amount of land development over the past 20 years, which has changed the character of our Town. Although we have strong regulations for development the town government is somewhat restricted in limiting new housing without being in violation of Connecticut state statutes.
One simple solution would be to fund the purchase of available land that otherwise would be developed. If we increased taxes by 1% per year or $1,400,000 we would quickly have a significant fund to purchase land for open space as it becomes available. Landowners would then be encouraged to sell to the Town.
The obvious benefit of this would be to save open spaces that are significant while allowing development in locations where we prefer to see future development. A win-win situation for our Town.
Yours truly,
Gary Tannenbaum
Newtown
Good idea to consider, we did budget dollars in previous budgets. Another good way is to support the Forest Association whom make commitments to purchase open space. A win for the town and the owner of the property. This method is far more equitable than efforts to prohibit development by a property owner.
I would support this but feel that the desire of the NCC (the club) is to prevent landowners from developing their land. They do not want to spend a dime unless it’s on fearmongering posters. They want landowners to pay the taxes on these properties AND not be able to develop them.