03/30/2026
Let’s clear something up—because there’s a narrative being pushed that is simply not true.
In 2020, the residents of Jackson voted to expand the Open Space Fund. That referendum was very clear about how those funds could be used.
It was not limited to just purchasing open space.
The approved uses include:
Open space acquisition
Recreation (including parks and athletic facilities)
Farmland preservation
Historic preservation
Maintenance and related costs
That wasn’t hidden. That wasn’t vague. That was the question placed in front of voters and it passed.
So when some claim that using these funds for parks and recreation is a “misuse,” that’s simply incorrect.
You may disagree with how the funds are being allocated. That’s fair.
You may want to prioritize land acquisition more heavily. Also fair.
But calling it illegal or misuse is false.
The funds are being used exactly as authorized by the voters.
Funds were used for parks and other legal uses and voted on by every council since 2020. EVERY COUNCIL!
And let’s be honest suggesting residents didn’t understand what they were voting for is not just wrong, it’s disrespectful. The question was public. The language was clear. The vote was decisive.
