Connecticut House Bill HB06946

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/17
• Refer: 1/25/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Municipal Open Space Priorities And Funding For The Purchase Of Such Properties.

Impact

The introduction of this bill represents a significant change in how municipalities can gather funds for land preservation. The ability to impose a buyer's fee provides a direct mechanism for funding open space initiatives, potentially shifting the financial burden of such projects away from local budgets and towards real estate transactions. This could lead to an increase in the number of open space acquisitions, thus promoting environmental conservation and community well-being across municipal areas. Furthermore, municipalities may collaborate with state, federal, or private entities, such as land trusts, using these funds to enhance stewardship practices for the preserved lands.

Summary

House Bill 06946 is an act designed to enhance municipalities' ability to fund the acquisition and stewardship of open space properties. Specifically, the bill permits towns and cities to impose a buyer's fee on the conveyance of real property over a value of $150,000, excluding transactions resulting in the preservation of open space land. The proposed fee is capped at 1% of the sale amount above this threshold and is aimed at raising funds essential for local open space initiatives. The fee collected must be retained in a separate account dedicated to purchasing and managing open space lands.

Contention

While the bill aims to bolster local environmental efforts, there may be points of contention among stakeholders. Critics could argue that imposing additional fees might deter property buyers and negatively impact the housing market. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the management of these funds and the potential for misuse or misallocation in smaller municipalities without the administrative capacity to handle such programs. Proponents, however, stress the long-term environmental benefits and community enhancements that well-preserved open spaces can bring, framing the conversation around the necessity of sustainable development in urban planning.