Orangetown To Establish Community Preservation Fund

ORANGETOWN, NY — A plan to start a land preservation fund in Orangetown has moved a step further with bills in the New York State Legislature sponsored by Sen. Bill Weber and Assemblyman John McGowan.

"With support in both the Assembly and Senate, Orangetown should soon follow the path of Warwick and New Paltz, where millions of dollars have been raised and numerous pieces of property have been purchased," Supervisor Teresa M. Kenny said in the announcement. "The land trust would allow Orangetown to protect at-risk properties and would give the town another tool it needs to preserve what makes Orangetown special."

The state would have to authorize the town board to establish the fund, which would be allowed to accept gifts of land or funds. Interest accrued by money deposited into the fund would be credited directly to it. Monies deposited into the preservation fund could not be transferred to any other account.

"I am grateful to Supervisor Teresa Kenny for bringing this innovative proposal to my attention," Weber said. "Protecting community character is something that is very important to me and the people of Orangetown and I’m gratified to be in a position to help."

"This legislation is a home run for Orangetown as it will provide the Town the ability to preserve and protect land for a variety of beneficial and worthy uses, such as open spaces, parks, and agriculture," McGowan said. "Ensuring that open spaces and natural resources are safeguarded is a top priority. This legislation will help further enhance the beautiful landscape and character of Orangetown for generations to come."

"As many of you recall, this was a key promise of my campaign in 2019," Kenny said.