New Jersey environmental groups differ on funding

Now that New Jersey voters have approved a new measure to preserve open space, environmental groups have different thoughts on how to divide it. Representatives of groups on Monday told the state Senate’s environment and energy committee that their concerns should be priorities.

The committee heard from groups emphasizing protecting farmland, stewarding open space, fixing up historic homes and providing more parks in cities.

Last month, voters approved dedicating a portion of the state’s business tax revenue to buying and preserving open space despite opposition from Gov. Chris Christie.

Initially, it moves money now dedicated to other environmental causes to preserving open space. Starting in 2019, it increases the amount of the tax dedicated to open space and other environmental concerns.