Senator Saland's Legislation To Establish Red Hook Community Preservation Fund Signed Into Law By Governor

Senator Steve Saland (R,C Poughkeepsie) today announced that his legislation (S.7328) to allow the Town of Red Hook to establish a community preservation fund for the purpose of protecting open space was signed into law by the Governor.

The legislation, introduced by Senator Saland at the request of members of the Red Hook Town Board, will create a new funding source, through a real estate transfer tax on property that exceeds the county median value. The community preservation fund may be used to address community concerns such as the acquisition and preservation of open space, and the acquisition and preservation of historic buildings and landscapes.

Saland said that establishing a means of preserving open space would provide an important planning tool for Red Hook's municipality, in addition contributing to the quality of life of the Red Hook community.

"In addition to securing passage in the Senate, I am pleased to have worked with the leadership of the Assembly to pass legislation which will assist the Town of Red Hook with their efforts to create community preservation funds," said Senator Saland. "This new law will give the people of Red Hook an option, through referendum, to create a funding source that will help preserve the beauty and protect the quality of life of their rural community."