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Park Closings
Save New Jersey's Parks
Governor Corzine's proposed budget includes a devastating 15% cut to the Department of Environmental Protection's budget. On April 1st the DEP announced that as a result of the proposed cuts, nine state parks would be closing and three others would close sections or reduce hours.
Write your legislators today and tell them that this is not an acceptable way to resolve New Jersey's budget crisis. They should not approve a budget that includes these cuts.
To take action, go to http://ga3.org/campaign/park_closings
Want to do more?
The best thing you can do is call your State Senator and Representatives (you can find their numbers here: NJLEG
You can also write a brief letter to the editor using the talking points provided and send it to your local newspaper and one or more regional or statewide papers. Please contact NJOHVA if you would like a list of regional and statewide publications and their contact information.
Thank you for taking action.
| Sample Letter for Campaign |
Subject: Park Closings
Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,
As you may know, Governor Corzine's proposed budget includes a cut to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Because of repeated cuts over the last decade, the DEP cannot absorb an additional cut and still continue to protect New Jersey's recreational open space and environment and administer the programs that are so important to our public health, economy, and quality of life.
I am particularly concerned about the recently announced state park closings that will be the result of the proposed cuts. Our parks are integral to the states economy. They are also important places where families can go to spend time together, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors thru recreation of choice. Our low- and middle-income families are especially dependent upon these public open spaces because they do not have vacation homes and other access to private facilities that our higher-earning residents enjoy.
Resolving New Jersey's budget crisis by cutting the DEP does not make sense. This is not a sound strategy for getting the state back on track fiscally.
New Jersey voters have repeatedly approved funding for parks and open spaces, even during difficult fiscal times.Clearly this is a priority for the people of New Jersey. I urge you to honor that priority by voting NO on any budget that includes these cuts.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
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