Inasmuch as Article 12-F, § 239-x, of the General Municipal
Law of the State of New York provides for the creation of a local conservation
agency by any city, town or village, with said agency being considered as
advisory in its relation to the local legislative body, the Town Board hereby
recognizes and supports the need for such an agency in order to ensure the
wise use of the town's natural resources and the enhancement and protection
of its environment.
On the basis of powers granted to it in Article 12-F, § 239-x,
of the General Municipal Law of the State of New York, the town hereby decrees
the establishment of the Town Conservation Advisory Council. The Council shall
consist of not less than five members nor more than nine members, each to
serve a term of two years and who shall be appointed without compensation.
Within its advisory capacity, said agency shall have the responsibility
to:
A. Advise the Town Board on matters affecting the preservation,
quality and use of the natural resources and environment of the Town of East
Fishkill.
B. Develop and conduct, with the Town Board's approval,
a program of public information designed to foster in the community an understanding
of environmental problems and issues and support for their resolutions.
C. Conduct studies, surveys and inventories of the natural
and man-made features within the Town of East Fishkill and such other studies
as may be necessary to ensure the wise use of natural resources and to enhance
and protect the environment.
D. Maintain an up-to-date inventory or index of all open
land and wetland areas in public or private ownership within the town so as
to provide a base of information for recommendations as to their preservation
and/or use.
E. Seek to coordinate and maintain liaison with public agencies
and private groups whose programs and activities have an impact on the quality
of the environment or who can provide needed assistance.
F. Work in close cooperation wherever possible with the
Town Planning Board and Town Recreation Commission.
G. Carry out such other duties as may be assigned from time
to time by the Town Board.
H. Maintain accurate records of meetings and activities
and submit an annual report of such activities to the Town Board by the 31st
of December of each year.