Wolf signs ‘Stoneleigh’ bill into law

A bill co-written by a Chester County legislator that would provide new protections for land governed by a conservation easement from being taken for development by eminent domain has been signed into law, cheering those who saw threats to open space.

The new law will require that entities like school districts and local governments seek court approval before taking property by eminent domain if that property is under conservation easement, said a representative of Natural Lands, a major player in regional efforts to preserve open space. The legislation was prompted by two instances in which local school districts in the state had sought to seize lands protected by Natural Lands, including the recently opened Stoneleigh Preserve in Lower Merion, Montgomery County.

The bill that Gov. Tom Wolf signed into law Sunday was sponsored by state Rep. Warren Kampf, R-157th Dist.

“Protecting open space and our natural areas is something that helps everyone and ensures a future connected to our past,” Kampf said Monday in an email sent to Digital First Media. “Chester County has a long and successful tradition of this. The new law proves the General Assembly’s commitment to land preservation and to standing with landowners willing to help us do that.

“I was proud to take on this fight and work with many partners to achieve success,” said Kampf.

The bill was co-sponosred by state Reps. Marcy Toepel R-147th, of Gilbertsville, and

RICHARD ILGENFRITZ — DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA The Stoneleigh Mansion in the Villanova section of Lower Merion.