Upper Milford Township Supervisors at their June 16 meeting approved the language of a referendum question asking residents to approve a small tax increase to fund acquisition of open space, but not before angry objections from resident Phil Vanim, who is a member of the open space committee.

“You’re pushing through an increase in the earned income tax….with no sunset provision,” he said. “You have no financial plan and no target properties have been discussed.”

He said he sees “no signs…that developers are breathing down our neck” and called the referendum proposal “wrong-headed.”

Supervisor Robert Sentner responded, “It’s a referendum. We’re not pushing it through.” He said supervisors and other officials must remain neutral in any information they put out about the referendum.

The exchange between Sentner and Vanim became heated until finally Supervisors Chairman George DeVault told Vanim, “You’ve made your point.”

Solicitor Marc Fisher also said any information disseminated by the township about the referendum must be neutral.

Assistant Township Manager Tim Haas said the open space committee has discussed a mailer which would show the pros and cons of the proposal. Supervisors asked about the cost of such a mailer and Haas said it costs $1,700 to send out the township newsletter.

In addition to a separate mailing, Haas said there will be information about the referendum in the fall newsletter, which will come out closer to the election.

Open space committee members Joyce Moore and Francis Caputo both said it is important residents get something in writing, not just information on the township website.

In other business, Sentner presented a proposal to increase township financial support to the township’s two fire companies, in return for firefighters getting further training, including hazardous materials certification and physicals.

Sentner didn’t give further details on his proposal, but said it includes an additional $25,000 for each fire department if they go forward with his suggestions. DeVault called his proposal “a good starting point” and said the board will review.

Citizens Fire Company Chief Joseph Sherman said his only concern would be his firefighters “getting all that training and then having the county come in and take over.”

In related news, Peter Brown of the American Red Cross said his organization and the Citizens Fire Company installed 124 smoke alarms in township residences June 11. He commended the fire company for getting involved in the program.

Sherman said more such events will be scheduled.

Sentner also commended Justin Hammond and Tyler Stone for completing their Fire One training, which he said is very vigorous. The two men work with both township fire departments, he said.

Donna Reidenhour and David Hill were confirmed as members of the Citizens Fire Company special fire police.