Town Reviews Plum Island Zoning Plan

Hours before a public hearing on proposed new zoning, the Southold town board discussed the plan at its work session Tuesday.

The public hearing on Plum Island's proposed new zoning takes place Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at Southold Town Hall. 

Southold Planning Director Heather Lanza reviewed the plan with the town board.

"It's not every day we do a new zoning district," she said. 

The research district, which would comprise 20 percent of Plum Island, would aim to encourage the use of the island for research and educational purposes. The conservation district, which would encompass 80 percent of the island, would preserve its natural resources. 

The new legislation would clarify permitted uses in the marine II district to accommodate necessary access to the island. 

At recent informational meetings, many have spoken out in support of the zoning, which would prevent a private owner from developing the property for commercial uses including residences or a casino. 

Solar energy has also been proposed for Plum Island's future. 

After Tuesday's public hearing, the matter will be adjourned until June 19.

Councilwoman Jill Doherty said the longer time period leaves a significant window for residents to weigh in; a good thing, she said, because such new zoning has never been implemented before.