State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle and Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. today announced their legislation, which would amend the Peconic Bay Community Preservation Fund to include projects that will help preserve and protect the maritime heritage of Long Island's East End, has been signed into law by the Governor as Chapter #255 of the Laws of 2020.

The Peconic Bay Regional Community Preservation Fund is a dedicated fund managed by each of the five East End Towns on Long Island (Southampton, East Hampton, Shelter Island, Riverhead and Southold) for the protection of farmland, open space, and community character. Since its inception in 1999, the Community Preservation Fund has generated $1.499 billion to protect over 10,000 acres of land on the East End. The program was amended in 2015, where 80% voters on the East End approved the extension the provisions of the CPF through the year 2050 and allowed up to 20% of the funds to be utilized for water quality improvement projects. This legislation would amend the Community Preservation Fund, by broadening the definition of “preservation of community character” to include projects that will help preserve and protect the maritime heritage of Long Island's East End. Additionally, this legislation would clarify that farm stands and farmers markets constitute agriculture and are permissible accessory uses on protected agricultural lands.

Senator LaValle stated, “The agricultural and maritime communities are the life blood of the east end. This law will enhance local town’s ability to protect these industries and preserve their rich heritage that has long contributed to the beauty, character and economy of Eastern Long Island.

Assemblyman Thiele stated, “I am proud to have worked with Senator LaValle on advancing this important legislation through the legislative process. Governor Cuomo is to be commended for his favorable executive action and support for the further protection and preservation of both traditional maritime and agricultural industry that are vital to the East End’s economy.”