GOs for Land Get Nod

Hillsborough County voters last week overwhelmingly approved the sale of up to $200 million of general obligation bonds to continue financing their Environmental Land Acquisition and Protection Program.

The referendum passed with almost 79% of the 440,745 votes cast. The bonds will be issued in one or more series with maturities up to 30 years and will be repaid with property taxes.

The program acquires and preserves environmentally sensitive lands that protect wildlife habitat, natural areas, drinking water sources, and the water quality of rivers, lakes, and bays.

Voters in Hillsborough County, which is on the central west coast of the state, have approved a property tax to support the program since 1987. It has been used to directly or indirectly support the purchase of 44,700 acres.

For reprint and licensing requests for this article, click here.
MORE FROM BOND BUYER