While the primary election on May 17th was mostly limited to registered Democrats and Republicans, all voters in Whitpain Township had the opportunity to vote on a ballot measure involving a 0.006% increase in the Earned Income Tax. The newly generated revenue is to be dedicated to preserving and maintaining open space. Voters approved the measure 3,455 to 2,052.

The township estimates that It will add approximately $40 to the typical person’s annual Earned Income Tax payment and will not affect real estate tax rates. The change will go into effect in 2023.

“The Board of Supervisors believed that placing this question before residents gave voters control over determining funding priorities,” said Supervisor Chair Kimberly Koch. “The Supervisors are committed to the open space that makes Whitpain such a great place to live, and we are thankful that many residents support this approach.”

Photo: Overview of Mermaid Lake, a former private club the township purchased in 2020.