Hatfield Township commissioners have advanced a proposal that would let voters decide in November whether to increase the township’s earned income tax by up to 0.25% to create a dedicated fund for preserving open space, expanding parks and trails, and protecting undeveloped land. If approved, the tax could generate about $2.1 million annually, with a resident earning $50,000 paying $125 more per year, while pensions, Social Security and other fixed incomes would not be affected. Township officials stressed they are not advocating for or against the measure but are providing information so residents can make the final decision. Supporters say the funding would help preserve the community’s rural character, leverage state and county grants, and finance future land acquisitions from willing sellers only, while critics have raised concerns about the financial impact on working families and questioned whether the township should identify specific properties before asking residents to approve a tax increase. Read more on the Hatfield Township Facebook page.
Source: The Reporter; 7/13/2026 & Hatfield Township; 7/23/2026