Lehigh Township debates taxpayer-funded land and open-space preservation program

Lehigh Township supervisors on April 22 considered whether to ask voters to approve a taxpayer-funded land and open-space preservation program that would be funded by a 0.25 percent increase in the township’s earned-income tax.

Advocates including resident Zach Szoke urged public outreach and a clear explanation of benefits and costs. "When they say preserved, it would basically mean that it couldn’t become a housing development," Szoke told the Board, describing the goal of protecting farmland and open space from subdivision and development.

Township Solicitor David Backenstoe described the legal steps the Board would have to take. The Board must first adopt an ordinance authorizing a referendum question; if voters approve, the township would create an oversight body (an Environmental Advisory Committee or similar board) and establish uniform criteria for purchases or easements. Backenstoe said the program could buy development rights directly or partner with Northampton County or conservancies; appraisals, title searches and monitoring costs are typical program expenses.

Supporters pointed to examples where townships used purchase agreements and partnerships to preserve farmland and open space. Moore Township Supervisor Dave Shafer described local efforts where the municipality bought land or easements, then leased or resold property to preserve farmland while replenishing the preservation fund.

Opponents and cautious residents asked whether it is fair to tax the whole township if only a small number of large-parcel owners participate. Supervisor Janet Sheats said she wants a taxpayer meeting and more public education before moving forward. "I am not comfortable voting on this until I hear from the public," Sheats said, suggesting the Board consider a town-hall presentation before any referendum decision. Szoke provided data to frame the discussion: the township has about 1,034 acres already preserved and identified roughly 305 parcels of 10 acres or more, totaling about 7,498 acres that could qualify.

Board members and residents debated timing. Solicitor Backenstoe noted that to appear on the November ballot the Board would need to pass an authorizing ordinance and submit the referendum language to the county by the required deadline; other speakers suggested spring 2026 might be more realistic if the Board wants more extensive outreach and an ordinance finalized first.

No formal vote was taken to place an ordinance or referendum on the ballot. Several residents asked the Board to hold a public information session; Supervisors said they will consider public outreach and further discussion at future meetings.

Next steps: the Board may direct the solicitor to draft an ordinance and schedule public outreach; no ordinance or formal referral to the ballot was recorded at the April 22 meeting.