Mikulin Joins Colleagues to Defend Local Control on Long Island
Assemblyman John Mikulin (R,C–Bethpage) joined members of the Senate and Assembly Minority Conferences in Albany to push back against the REVIVE Act (A.10632, Solages), a bill that would take zoning power away from local governments and give it to state bureaucrats.
The proposal would allow Albany to override local zoning laws and give the state the authority to approve high-density housing or mixed-use developments in communities, even if local boards, small businesses and residents do not approve. Mikulin said this bill is another example of the state ignoring input from towns and cities in favor of broad, one-size-fits-all rules.
“Local control is what keeps our suburban communities safe, strong, and livable,” said Assemblyman Mikulin. “Albany should not be deciding what gets built next to your home. Local officials and residents should. The state must stop forcing policies that do not fit places like Long Island.”
Mikulin noted that Long Island towns have worked for decades to manage growth responsibly, protecting infrastructure, schools and neighborhood character while still addressing housing needs. He warned that the REVIVE Act would dismantle that balance and accelerate overdevelopment without local consent.
Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti joined the event, echoing Mikulin’s concern the bill would destroy home rule and undo generations of local planning. Together, the two Long Island leaders called on the Legislature to reject the proposal and instead develop housing policies based on local collaboration rather than state command.
Mikulin reaffirmed his commitment to protecting home rule and standing up for Long Island communities. He said state leaders must work with local governments to craft housing solutions that reflect community needs and preserve the character of Long Island’s neighborhoods.
