Bill > S00277

This bill authorizes the town of Chester in Orange County to establish a community preservation fund and impose a real estate transfer tax. The bill allows the town to create a special fund to preserve community character by acquiring and protecting various types of land and properties, including open spaces, agricultural lands, scenic areas, wildlife habitats, historic sites, and shorelines. The tax, which would not exceed 0.75% of the property transfer value, would be deposited into this fund and used exclusively for preservation purposes. The town must establish an advisory board to review and recommend land preservation projects, and must develop a comprehensive community preservation project plan that prioritizes farmland preservation. The bill requires a mandatory referendum for implementing the tax and provides detailed provisions for tax collection, exemptions, and fund management. Notably, no more than 10% of the fund can be used for management and stewardship, and the town can potentially create a transfer of development rights program to further protect community character. The bill includes provisions to ensure transparency, public input, and responsible use of the funds, with strict guidelines on how preserved lands can be used and maintained.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S277