Town of Clarkstown officials joined state lawmakers and environmental advocates Thursday to announce the passage of the Clarkstown Community Preservation Act by the New York State Legislature, marking a significant step toward expanding local efforts to preserve open space, natural resources, historic sites, and critical environmental assets throughout the town.
The announcement was made at Bear Swamp Preserve in Valley Cottage, where Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann was joined by Senator Bill Weber, Assemblyman Patrick Carroll, members of the Town’s Greenway Commission, and representatives from several conservation organizations.
If signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul, the legislation would allow Clarkstown residents to vote in a referendum this November on whether to establish a Community Preservation Fund. The fund would be financed through a one-time 0.75% fee on most real estate transactions and would be dedicated exclusively to land preservation and conservation efforts.
Town officials estimate the measure could generate nearly $5 million annually in protected funding for the acquisition and preservation of open space, parkland, historic sites, agricultural resources, and environmentally sensitive properties.
Supervisor Hoehmann called the legislation an important milestone for Clarkstown, thanking Senator Weber, Assemblyman Carroll, and the Town’s Greenway Commission for their efforts in advancing the proposal through Albany. He urged Governor Hochul to sign the bill promptly so residents can decide its future at the ballot box this November.
Senator Weber echoed that call, noting that both the Senate and Assembly approved the measure earlier this month and emphasizing that local voters should have the opportunity to make the final decision through a referendum.
Assemblyman Carroll, a former Clarkstown Town Councilman, said the legislation would provide a dedicated funding mechanism for preserving open space, protecting drinking water resources, enhancing recreational opportunities, and safeguarding historic landmarks without placing a long-term tax burden on current residents.
Town Board members also praised the legislation, highlighting strong public support for conservation efforts and encouraging Governor Hochul to sign the bill. Officials noted that nearly 1,000 residents have already signed petitions supporting the measure.
Supporters say the Community Preservation Act follows a model successfully used for decades by municipalities across New York, including several Long Island communities and the Town of Warwick.
Environmental organizations also voiced support for the legislation. Representatives from Scenic Hudson and the Orange County Land Trust said the measure would help protect critical natural resources, including watershed lands connected to the Hackensack River, a major drinking water source serving hundreds of thousands of residents in New York and New Jersey.
Town officials said that if the Governor signs the legislation before the state’s August deadline, Clarkstown voters could have the opportunity to decide the future of the Community Preservation Act during the November General Election.
