FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Nanuet, NY— Senator Bill Weber, Assemblyman Aron Wieder, Orangetown Supervisor Teresa Kenny, and Congressman Mike Lawler announced the passage of landmark legislation establishing the Orangetown Preservation Fund. The law, recently signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, authorizes the Town of Orangetown to create a Community Preservation Fund to protect open space and preserve natural resources.
First proposed in 2021 by Supervisor Teresa Kenny and originally introduced by then-Assemblyman Mike Lawler, the Orangetown Preservation Fund had been a priority for Rockland’s state and federal legislators for years. Senator Weber carried and passed the legislation in the State Senate for three consecutive years. After passing both chambers in 2023 but being vetoed by the Governor, and passing just the Senate in 2024, the bill finally became law this year.
The new law allows Orangetown to establish a Community Preservation Fund through local law. The fund will have the ability to accept gifts, land interests, and other governmental revenues. These resources will be dedicated to preserving the town’s natural character and cannot be transferred to other accounts.
Congressman Mike Lawler stated, “Having authored this legislation during my time in the Assembly, it’s incredibly rewarding to see it finally cross the finish line. I want to thank Senator Bill Weber and Assemblyman Aron Wieder for carrying this critical bill forward and delivering a major win for the people of Orangetown. Establishing a Community Preservation Fund will allow the town to protect open space, strengthen our quality of life, and plan for the future in a thoughtful, responsible way. After urging the Governor to sign this bill into law, I’m thrilled she officially did so, and I’m grateful to all who worked together, including Supervisor Teresa Kenny, former Assemblyman John McGowan, and other community leaders, to make this long overdue effort a reality.”
Senator Bill Weber stated, “I was proud to pass legislation ensuring the Town of Orangetown can protect its natural resources for generations to come. I have always believed that each town should be able to choose its own destiny, and the Orangetown Preservation Fund reflects exactly that. I’m grateful to Supervisor Kenny for championing this legislation and to the Governor for signing it into law.”
Supervisor Teresa Kenny added,“I want to express my deep appreciation to Senator Bill Weber for his crucial role in passing the Community Preservation Fund legislation. His dedication to protecting Orangetown’s natural resources and quality of life will benefit our residents for generations to come.”
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Mort Becker
Deputy Chief of Staff
& Communications Director
Office of Senator Bill Weber – District 38
163 Airport Executive Park
Nanuet, NY 10954
Phone: 845-623-3627
Fax: 845-425-4617