The Riverhead town board decided to remove any references to agritourism inns and resorts from the comprehensive plan update, prompted by community outcry against potential luxury hotel developments.
The proposed rezoning aimed to boost the tax base and needed special permits for developers, requiring at least 100 acres for construction while preserving 70% for farming.
Despite the potential economic benefits recognized by some, including farmers, opposition from the community emerged forcefully, leading to a petition with over 2,600 signatures against the project.
Once the town board retracted their proposal, organizations opposing the luxury hotels celebrated, viewing the decision as a victory for preserving the rural charm of the North Fork.
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