Bill > A06918

This bill authorizes the town of Copake to establish a community preservation fund and impose a real estate transfer tax to support land conservation and community character preservation. The bill creates a comprehensive framework allowing the town to collect up to a 2% tax on real estate transfers, with the revenue deposited into a special fund dedicated to specific preservation purposes. These purposes include protecting open spaces, agricultural lands, scenic areas, wildlife habitats, historic properties, and establishing parks and recreation areas. The town must create an advisory board to review and recommend property acquisitions, and develop a detailed community preservation project plan that prioritizes farmland preservation. The bill requires public hearings, sets guidelines for managing preserved lands, and ensures that acquired properties cannot be sold or repurposed without legislative approval. The tax is subject to a mandatory referendum, and properties with development restrictions or agricultural uses may be eligible for certain exemptions. The legislation is designed to provide the town of Copake with a flexible tool to protect its natural and cultural landscape while giving property owners and developers clear guidelines about potential land use restrictions.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6918