The Long Island Assembly minority conference representing Nassau County has secured an Empire Zone for Nassau County, one of 11 in the state that weren’t part of the Empire Zones program until passage of the new state budget. The delegation also announced extension of the Empire Zones program to June 30, 2011.

Empire Zones, administered through the Empire State Development Corporation, provide business-friendly combinations of tax reductions, energy savings and other incentives to encourage businesses to locate or expand in New York and create jobs.

Assemblywoman Maureen O’Connell (R,C,I-East Williston) commented, "This program has helped many communities throughout the state prosper by attracting businesses looking for certain incentives. Empire Zones aid local economies and have brought thousands of jobs to some areas. The creation of an Empire Zone in Nassau County will bring us to a level playing field with surrounding counties and allow us to compete for the businesses we deserve."

The 18-year-old program has helped create more than 71,000 jobs through the 72 designated Empire Zones in New York. More than 9,000 certified businesses, employing about 300,000 people, are benefiting from Empire Zone business and tax incentives.

"An Empire Zone in Nassau County will benefit working families from Elmont to Hempstead through increased job creation and additional services. Empire Zones will also help property taxpayers by expanding the commercial tax base. This is a clear win for both taxpayers, the business community and consumers," said Assemblyman Thomas Alfano (R,I,C,WF-21st District).

"Having an Empire Zone now gives Nassau County an additional edge to compete in the global economy," said Assemblyman Bob Barra (R,C-14th Assembly District). "Today marks a victory for the business community and taxpayers of Nassau County."

The lawmakers agreed that an Empire Zone will be a proven asset to Nassau County. Empire Zones in Suffolk County have brought capital investments totaling nearly $25 million. Nearly 300 certified businesses have invested $469 million in the region since the first zone was established on Long Island in 1987.

"The Empire Zone program gives businesses incentives to locate, expand or increase employment opportunities within a qualified zone," said Assemblyman David G. McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick). "Nassau County will soon be able to enjoy the benefits of greater economic growth and revitalization."

"Today marks the beginning of an economic renaissance for the Nassau County business community. Taxpayers will also reap the benefits of this Empire Zone through job creation and economic development," said Assemblyman James Conte (R,C-Huntington Station).

Assemblyman Joseph Saladino (R,C,I-Massapequa) stated, "The benefits and incentives this program offers to prospective businesses looking to locate in New York will give us our competitive edge, and now Nassau County will be able to partake in all the advantages associated with the program."