Opposition mounts against Delaware Water Gap park proposal

During a recent town council meeting, community members voiced significant concerns regarding the proposed designation change of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area to a national park and preserve. Sandy Hall, a founding member of the Delaware Water Gap Defense Fund, presented a detailed opposition to the proposal, highlighting potential environmental impacts such as timber degradation, habitat disruption, and urbanization. Hall emphasized that local legislators in New Jersey and Pennsylvania are actively working against the proposal, which has garnered support from over 5,200 citizens and various environmental organizations.

Hall also noted that two resolutions opposing the designation are currently awaiting a vote in Trenton, urging council members to contact local legislators to support these efforts. She clarified that the proposal did not originate from the National Park Service and that hunting would only be permitted in the preserve, not the national park.

In a separate discussion, resident Bob Lenezia criticized the use of Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements for residential projects, arguing they are financially detrimental to municipalities. He contended that municipalities would benefit more from conventional tax revenues rather than the reduced payments associated with PILOT agreements.

Additionally, concerns were raised about accessing legal documents related to a lawsuit against the state regarding housing issues, with assurances from council members that these would be made available to the public.

The meeting concluded with a motion to close the public session, reflecting a range of community concerns from environmental protection to fiscal responsibility in local governance.