Sherman, CT: Residents Want to Preserve Open Space

A recent poll of Sherman, Connecticut residents, conducted by the Sherman Open Space and Land Acquisition Fund Advisory Board and the Sherman Conservation Commission indicates that town residents in the small rural town overwhelmingly support preserving open space within the town.

Sherman, Connecticut, is often referred to as the fastest growing town in the state, per capita.  With approximately 4,000 residents, it is still a small town that has maintained its rural charm and feel.

The recent poll, which had a 26% response rate from citizens, demonstrates that town residents are willing to pay higher property taxes if it means funding open space acquisitions.  66% of respondents are willing to pay $100 more in taxes, and an additional 31% of respondents are willing to pay $200 more in annual property taxes.

Additional poll results includes:

• More than 60% of town residents believe Sherman is growing too fast
• 29% believe Sherman is growing at the right pace
• 80% believe preserving open space should be a high priority for the town
• More than 80% feel it is "critical" or "important" to preserve open space

The town of Sherman, CT, is currently in talks to purchase Towner Hill, 80 acres of forest land on Route 37.  The town also is interested in Happy Acres Farm, 100 acres along Route 39.