Assemblyman Keith P. Brown (R,C-Northport) today joined Minority colleagues and local leaders to push back against the proposed “REVIVE Act” (A.10632), raising serious concerns about its impact on Long Island’s infrastructure, suburban planning and quality of life.

The legislation would permit the conversion of large, vacant or underused commercial properties larger than 15,000 square feet into residential developments, bypassing local zoning laws and municipal oversight. Brown stressed that Long Island communities are already under pressure from rising costs, crowded infrastructure and increasing demand on local services and he warned that the proposal could accelerate those challenges without proper planning.

“Long Island is not a blank slate for Albany to experiment with,” said Brown. “Our roads are already congested, our schools are near capacity and our infrastructure is being pushed to its limits. Forcing high-density housing into areas without local input is a recipe for disaster, both financially and environmentally.”

Brown also pointed to the broader pattern of state mandates that shift costs and responsibilities onto local governments and taxpayers.

“This isn’t just about zoning, it’s about who pays the price,” Brown added. “Albany creates the mandate, and Long Island families are left dealing with the consequences, whether it’s overcrowded roads and classrooms, strained emergency services or higher property taxes.”

While acknowledging the need to address housing availability, Brown emphasized sustainable solutions must be developed at the local level with direct community input.

“We all want to see smart redevelopment and vibrant communities, but those decisions must be made by the people who live there,” Brown said. “Zoning from Albany ignores the realities of Home Rule and undermine the very communities they claim to help. The bottom line is simple: Decisions about our communities should be made in our communities. It is a cornerstone of New York State government. I will always stand up for Long Island residents and fight against policies that put Albany bureaucrats ahead of local voices.”