Yesterday, Assemblyman Scott Gray (R–Watertown), along with members of the Senate and Assembly Minority Conferences, held a press conference opposing the REVIVE Act (A.10632), arguing that it strips communities of local zoning control through top-down state mandates.

The REVIVE Act would allow the state to override local zoning laws and force communities to host high-density housing or mixed-use developments despite opposition from locally elected officials and residents who best understand their community’s needs. Upstate leaders warn that relinquishing local authority would set a dangerous precedent for other statewide policies.

Gray said the proposal is particularly troubling for upstate communities like those in Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties, where infrastructure, energy capacity and population density differ sharply from downstate areas. He also raised serious concerns about surrendering home rule, warning the measure would erode local governments’ ability to make decisions that fit their communities.

Local communities are losing their autonomy as the state imposes mandates without considering the real-world impact. "For years, we've watched the state pass sweeping mandates with little regard for cost, capacity or local impact," said Assemblyman Gray. "Now, they want to seize control over zoning decisions too. Eroding local control in any area means eroding control across the state, not just for zoning but for energy choice, energy storage, and future energy projects."

Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti warned that the REVIVE Act would disrupt thoughtful community planning, echoing Gray’s argument that statewide mandates undermine years of local balance and responsible growth. Gray and local officials urge lawmakers to reject the act and collaborate with municipalities on housing and development solutions that respect home rule, preserve community character and reflect local realities.

Gray reaffirmed his commitment to protecting local decision-making and to supporting policies that promote responsible growth. He said Albany should trust local governments to shape housing solutions that meet community needs without sacrificing independence or identity.