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Protecting Water, Habitat in Smithfield Township

SMITHFIELD TOWNSHIP — People in one part of Monroe County are weighing in on a ballot question that could help protect their water. On Election Day, resid...

SMITHFIELD TOWNSHIP -- People in one part of Monroe County are weighing in on a ballot question that could help protect their water.

On Election Day, residents in Smithfield Township will decide whether to set up a $2 million fund to help preserve water quality, forest, and wildlife habitat.

In the backyard of Dave Rice's home near East Stroudsburg are acres of wetlands, scenery he'd like to see for years to come.

"I got a pond right over there and I don't want to see it all messed up. I got a lot of wildlife that use our ponds and wetlands," said Rice.

That's why on Election Day, he plans to vote in favor of a referendum designed to protect Smithfield Township's water quality, including lakes, rivers, forests, and wetlands.

"Well, the more people that are voting for it the better, right? Who would vote against it? You don't want to drink sludge, right," said Rice.

The township board of supervisors hopes to create a 20-year protection fund of up to $2 million.

If residents vote yes, the borrowing will cost the average household about $2.50 a month, or $30.00 a year. Whether that money will come from income or property tax has yet to be determined.

"Oh, absolutely. What is $2? You can't buy a pack of gum for $2," said Mary Ryon, Smithfield Township.

According to the township, there would be an annual public audit of how the funds are spent.

Mary Ryon says as long as her money is going to protect the water, she's on board with it.

"Well, we don't want anyone getting sick, right? We want nice clean and fresh water," said Ryon.

A nature walk will be held this upcoming weekend in Smithfield Township for anyone who wants to learn more about preserving this area.

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