This article
is enacted pursuant to the authority and power granted by Municipal
Home Rule of the State of New York, Chapter 62 of Consolidated Laws,
Article 16, in conformance with the Town's Comprehensive Plan and
Agricultural Enhancement Strategy, to promote public health, safety,
comfort, convenience, economy, natural, agricultural and cultural
resources, aesthetics and the general welfare and for the following
additional purposes:
(1)
To
encourage agriculture to continue and prosper and to avoid regulating
agricultural uses in a manner that unreasonably restricts or regulates
farm structures or farming practices.
(2)
To
encourage other economic activities such as forestry, recreation,
vineyards, orchards, and tree farming, as well as the support services
and industries that add value to these uses, such as wood products
and tourist facilities.
(3)
Provide
an opportunity to balance growth and a viable farming economy with
resource protection.
(4)
Provide
residential developments in a manner that preserves the rural character
of the Town while respecting, conserving and enhancing agricultural
opportunities.
(5)
Coordinate
the Town of Malta Comprehensive (Master) Plan, Agriculture and Open
Space Preservation Study, Open Space and Recreation Needs Assessment
Report, Agricultural Enhancement Strategy and other applicable Town,
county, state, federal and regional plans and programs.
(6)
Ensure
consistency between the Town's land use policies and the New York
State Agricultural Districts Law, Chapter 25AA of the Agriculture
and Markets Law, by ensuring that farms are treated fairly and are
not unreasonably regulated.
