We, the undersigned Monmouth County state legislators, are encouraging the support of Monmouth County voters on the Nov. 7 Monmouth County Open Space question. Approval of question No. 4 will allow continued acquisition of open space and improvements to recreational facilities in the face of rising real estate values.

The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders is seeking approval to convert the collection of funds for the Open Space Trust Fund from the current fixed amount of $16 million to an apportionment rate of 1.5 cents per $100 of equalized property tax valuation.

Monmouth County voters have supported three similar referendums in 1987, 1996 and 2002 by a nearly 3-to-1 margin.

Open space protects the quality of our drinking water, allows us to enjoy outdoor recreational activities and maintains our property values. Please consider this important ballot question on Nov. 7, not only for your own quality of life, but for that of generations to come.

Ellen Karcher (D-12)

Joseph Kyrillos (R-13)

Joseph Palaia (R-11)

senators

Jennifer Beck (R-12)

Amy Handlin (R-13)

Jennifer Beck

assemblywomen

Steve Corodemus (R-11)

Sean Kean (R-11)

Sam Thompson (R-13)

assemblymen

Tom Fitzsimmons

Legislative District

coordinator

District 12