Economic development is a complicated and sometimes misunderstood aspect to community growth and preservation. With most economic development, the not in my backyard (NIMBY) phenomenon is prevalent – whether it’s a solar farm or a manufacturing facility. It’s important to acknowledge these concerns, but equally important to clarify the rigorous and thoughtful planning process the Orange County Partnership undertakes when siting new developments.
We are extremely deliberate when evaluating properties and going through the site selection process to place industrial and commercial projects. These decisions are never made lightly. Each town in Orange County has specific comprehensive plans and zoning regulations that guide us. We respect these guidelines and ensure that no industrial project is placed in areas that would disrupt the character of "bucolic suburbia." Instead, we strategically position projects near existing infrastructure, particularly highways, and locations with robust water and power supply. These decisions are based on logical, long-term planning for the county's economic future. Additionally, all projects need to go through the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), New York State has one of the most intense environmental review processes in the country – this can take years of comprehensive studies, leading to mitigation measures that are prescribed to projects by the planning board.
Our mission is to stay as balanced as possible, striving to preserve valuable open space while simultaneously attracting companies that utilize local labor while bringing high-quality, good-paying jobs to our residents. Quality of life is a critical variable that companies consider in their site selection process. We must preserve our rural communities – while keeping development proximate to major infrastructure assets. This balance is essential for the future prosperity of the region, ensuring that people can work close to home and earn salaries that allow them to afford to live in Orange County. Approximately 29.2% of the county—over 156,086 acres—is designated as protected open space. This commitment to preservation demonstrates that our strategic planning efforts take into account both economic growth and environmental stewardship.
The Orange County Partnership continues to collaborate with local governments and stakeholders to ensure that new developments contribute to our tax base while adding new jobs and balancing the quality of life in the region. We understand that change can be challenging, but it's our belief that smart growth—growth that respects both people and place—is the key to Orange County’s bright future.
