He called for $350 million in bonds for open-space preservation.

More than 500 acres have been set aside for open-space preservation just since January.

In Willington, the town in November received a $73,125 state grant to buy 28 acres for open-space preservation.

"This magnificent property is one which, if it were in private ownership, the state would seek to acquire for open-space preservation along the Hudson," he wrote.

He would use 4.2 percent of the total sales tax revenue for open-space preservation, which he said would add up to $200 million annually.

Back in the booming 80's, when land was expensive and tax coffers overflowed, state governments often took the lead in open-space preservation.

The land would have been bought under county programs for open-space preservation.

Another thing we've advocated for is open-space preservation on the New York Hospital property.

"One, open-space preservation, and the second, to recognize the aquifer located under the North Shore's green belt."

"We're getting the concept of open-space preservation out there," Mr. Steele said.