Ballot approval shows environmental concern

The overwhelming approval of the environmental ballot questions and the high visibility of over development as an issue in many local races are clear indicators of the public’s concern about sprawl in New Jersey.

Sprawl and the loss of open spaces and natural resources are the most significant environmental issues facing the state.

The governor’s leadership on increasing funding for open space preservation and the cleanup of contaminated sites provided important tools for the public in their fight to protect their communities.

Gov. McGreevey has proposed other necessary programs that still need to be adopted, including strengthening state regulations over water pollution, sewers and endangered wildlife species, authorizing the transfer of development rights, and requiring municipalities to plan for environmental protection.

Gov. McGreevey has put the concerns of the public front and center, and his agenda should be a priority for attention from the Legislature and decision makers.

Tim Dillingham

Executive director, American

Littoral Society, Sandy Hook