How often do you look at a local community project and appreciate how the money to fund the project came to be?

The natural gas impact fee (which is really just a tax on the industry) is helping to fund important projects throughout the state. Via a set formula (that is clear and transparent) money is allocated each year to every county in the state (regardless of whether or not drilling occurs within the county) and certain municipalities. These funds are used to pay for a wide range of projects including: infrastructure upgrades, road and bridge improvements, grants for first responders to buy new equipment, and enhancements to parks and green spaces.

The impact fee is providing a life line to county and municipal governments – a dedicated, annual funding stream that can be used to pay for important projects that otherwise might not get done or get put off for a later time. This is money that local governments can depend on – and plan and budget for. It helps to lessen the pressure felt on local governments’ budgets, which in turn reduces the need to raise local taxes to pay for the projects.

The impact tax literally benefits all taxpayers. Here’s to hoping lawmakers allow it to continue to work and don’t try and mess with it in the future.

JOSEPHINE FERRO

East Stroudsburg

Submitted by Virtual Newsroom