Cuomo Launches Long Island Regional Development Council

The Long Island Senate delegation joined on the campus of SUNY Old Westbury on Thursday, July 27 for the launch of the Long Island Regional Economic Development Council, which is billed as a way between the government and business community to spur economic development.

“These councils will have the tools they need to initiate regionally tailored projects that take advantage of our state's many resources and create jobs for New Yorkers,” Cuomo said. 

A total of 10 regional economic development councils, with Long Island Association President Kevin Law and Hofstra University President Stuart Rabinowitz co-chairing the Long Island chapter. The council is comprised of business, education, agriculture, non-profits and community-based organizations.

Each of the 10 regional councils will develop a plan “to align state resources and policies, eliminate unnecessary barriers to growth and prosperity, and streamline the delivery of government services and programs” according to a release.

Each of the 10 regional councils are competing for $1 billion in state funding for projects they determine to be part of their regional strategy.

“Our complete economic recovery hinges on our ability to create jobs. I look forward to working with the council to bring development projects forward that will enhance our economic viability,” said in a statement. “I will be working with my Senate colleagues from Long Island and the council to make sure we receive our share for projects that are in line with development that makes sense for our region.”