The authority insisted that it had chosen the only practical sites, ones with gas and electric hookups, available property and industrial zoning.

The only other acreage with industrial zoning in western Southampton is available only for lease, he said.

Many transfer stations opened in Greenpoint and Williamsburg because of the industrial zoning.

He drank out of a paper bag while going to and from his job at a publisher's warehouse, in an area whose industrial zoning permitted few bars.

He said industrial zoning benefited homeowners in the hamlet.

Years back, the whole idea of industrial zoning on the waterfront was oil tanks and sand mines.

Residents said the industrial zoning would force them away from the only place in town where they could afford to live.

The 246 acres are undeveloped and will require no change from the current zoning, light industrial.

They also said that industrial zoning increased property values and was opposed by only three owners.

But the Town Board would have to approve a special-use permit, because the retail use is a higher use than the current industrial zoning.