The Clarkstown Town Board has unanimously approved a resolution urging New York State lawmakers to pass the proposed “Clarkstown Community Preservation Act,” a measure aimed at strengthening efforts to protect open space and natural resources throughout the town.
If enacted by the state legislature, the law would authorize the creation of a Community Preservation Fund along with a Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program. These tools would allow the town to preserve open space, farmland, water sources, natural resources, and historic landmarks.
Town officials said the resolution reflects strong community demand, noting that many residents have called for additional protections for Clarkstown’s environment. The proposal also received unified backing from the town’s Greenway Commission.
Officials emphasized that Community Preservation Funds are widely considered one of the most effective tools available to municipalities for conservation efforts. Similar programs have already been authorized or implemented in nearby communities, including Orangetown, as well as in counties such as Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, and Ulster. Towns like Warwick and Red Hook have successfully operated such programs for years.
The process to establish the fund involves several steps. First, the legislation must pass both the State Assembly and Senate and be signed by the governor. If approved at the state level, the proposal would then go before Clarkstown voters in a public referendum. Once implemented, officials estimate the program could generate more than $5 million annually dedicated specifically to preservation efforts.
Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann praised the Town Board’s unified support, stating that the initiative would provide a critical tool to safeguard the community’s natural and historic assets while continuing to enhance quality of life for residents.
Members of the Town Board echoed that sentiment, highlighting the importance of protecting Clarkstown’s character, natural beauty, and recreational spaces. Officials also pointed to past community investments — including park expansions and playground projects — as examples of how dedicated funding can enhance local quality of life.
Town leaders are now calling on state representatives to act swiftly to advance the legislation, emphasizing that the measure would give residents a direct voice in preserving Clarkstown’s future.
