Ballot questions answered

In addition to electing candidates for Congress and other offices, voters in New Jersey and Philadelphia will be asked to decide ballot questions on Tuesday. The Inquirer's recommendations follow.

Bail reform: When New Jersey abolished the death penalty in 2007, all criminal defendants, no matter how dangerous, became constitutionally eligible for release on bail. At the same time, defendants who pose no threat to the community may remain locked up because they can't afford bail.

New Jersey inmates spend an average of 10 months in jail, even though more than half are awaiting trial for nonviolent crimes. Voters should say YES to Public Question 1 to let the courts jail or release defendants based on their risk to communities, not how much cash they have.

Open space: The nation's most densely populated state should have a permanent source of funding to acquire open space for preservation as well as protection from superstorms. Voters should say YES to Public Question 2, which would divert some business-tax revenues to provide about $71 million a year for four years and $117 million a year subsequently.

Sustainability: The city's voters should reject a request to sustain the Office of Sustainability by adding it to the City Charter. The office oversees important functions such as reducing the city's carbon footprint, recycling, and managing storm water. But mayoral administrations should be able to manage the office without any further complication of the charter. Vote NO on Question 1.

Prisons: For 26 years, city prisons have operated as an independent agency, even though the charter considers them part of the Department of Human Services. Voters should say YES to Question 2 to recognize that prisons should and do operate as a separate department.

Bonding: Philadelphians should also vote YES on the city's $137 million capital budget to fund needed repairs to city buildings, roads, and parks.