The "Palisades Cliffs Protection and Planning Act" aims to preserve the Palisades cliffs along the Hudson River by establishing the Palisades Cliffs Preservation Council. This council will consist of 10 voting members appointed by the governing bodies of municipalities within the Palisades area and will be responsible for overseeing development in the region. The bill defines the Palisades Planning Region as the land extending up to 2000 feet east of the Palisades cliff crest, where any proposed development must adhere to strict height limitations unless approved by the council. The council is empowered to adopt bylaws, conduct public hearings, and develop model land use ordinances to protect the environment and manage development effectively.
Additionally, the bill mandates that the council prepare annual reports detailing its activities and financial statements, ensuring transparency and accountability. It also allows the council to seek injunctive relief in court for any violations of the act. The legislation emphasizes the importance of coordinated land use decisions to prevent overdevelopment and protect the natural beauty of the Palisades cliffs, which are considered a significant state treasure. The act will take effect immediately, applying to any proposed developments in the designated region that have not yet received all necessary government approvals.