Open Space Referendum
- Municipalities are authorized by PA Act 153 ("Open Space Lands, Acquisition and Preservation") to purchase land or easements for the purpose of conservation. Local governments may levy a tax on real estate or earned income above the existing limits of the Commonwealth's laws, but only if they first receive referendum approval from the voters. A plan to protect these resources is required prior to expenditures of open space tax revenue. [source: Pennsylvania Land Choices, An Educational Guide, Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources in partnership with Pennsylvania Land Trust Association]
