§ 119-aa. Purpose. It is hereby declared to be the purpose of this
article to encourage local governmental programs for the preservation,
restoration and maintenance of the historical, architectural,
archeological and cultural environment by clarifying and amplifying
existing authority and providing necessary tools for such purpose. The
framework provided by this article is intended to maintain and encourage
the opportunity and flexibility for the counties, cities, towns and
villages of the state to manage the historic and cultural properties
under their jurisdiction in a spirit of stewardship and trusteeship for
future generations and to authorize local governments to conduct their
activities, plans and programs in a manner consistent with the
preservation and enhancement of historic and cultural properties.