BETHEL — The Bethel Town Board introduced a proposed conservation subdivision law that would require substantial open-space preservation in certain residential developments while changing how projects are designed and reviewed.

Proposed Local Law No. 3 of 2026 would replace the town's existing conservation subdivision regulations and generally require at least 50 percent of a development area to remain open space, subject to exemptions in the law.

"This is not intended to stop residential development," Supervisor Dan Sturm said. "Rather, the goal is to establish a predictable process that allows appropriate development while making better use of the land and protecting the qualities that make Bethel an attractive place to live, work and invest."

The proposal establishes a four-step design process that considers conservation areas before building sites, roads, trails and final lot lines. Developers would also submit yield plans, sketch plans and site analyses.

Areas identified for protection could include agricultural land, wetlands, waterways, steep slopes, scenic areas and wildlife habitat. The law also addresses permanent protection and maintenance of open space through conservation easements, deed restrictions and homeowners associations.

Town officials said the regulations would provide greater flexibility in lot layouts and residential design without changing underlying zoning density.

The proposal grew from recommendations in Bethel's Comprehensive Plan, including calls to preserve 50 percent open space in conservation designs and multifamily developments.

The board unanimously introduced the law and declared itself lead agency for environmental review.

The proposal will now go to the Bethel Planning Board and Sullivan County for review and undergo the required environmental review process.

A public hearing is scheduled for Oct. 28 at 8 p.m. at the Dr. Duggan Community Center.