Monroe County announces upcoming public hearing to discuss proposed changes and consolidation of agricultural districts impacting towns and villages across the region

Monroe County, New York – Monroe County officials will hold a public hearing on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 5:45 p.m. to gather public input on the future of two important agricultural districts within the county. The hearing, organized by the Planning & Economic Development Committee of the Monroe County Legislature, will take place at the Legislative Chambers in the County Office Building, 39 West Main Street, Rochester, New York.

The purpose of the hearing is to offer residents, farmers, and landowners a chance to speak on the eight-year review of the Monroe County Western Agricultural District No. 5 and Eastern Agricultural District No. 6. The hearing will specifically focus on three main topics of consideration. These include the potential consolidation of Districts No. 5 and No. 6 into a single county-wide agricultural district, proposed modifications to the boundaries of these districts, and the recommendations made by the Monroe County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board.

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Both agricultural districts under review play a significant role in the county’s farming and rural economy. The Western Agricultural District No. 5 covers parts of the Towns of Chili, Clarkson, Gates, Greece, Hamlin, Ogden, Parma, Riga, Sweden, and Wheatland, as well as the Villages of Churchville, Hilton, and Spencerport. Meanwhile, the Eastern Agricultural District No. 6 includes parts of the Towns of Brighton, Henrietta, Penfield, Perinton, Pittsford, Mendon, Rush, and Webster and the Villages of Honeoye Falls and Pittsford.

As part of the proposed changes, the Western District is expected to see an increase of approximately 537 acres, while the Eastern District would gain roughly 153 acres. These additions reflect updates to land use and property classifications aimed at strengthening the county’s commitment to agriculture. The parcels proposed for inclusion have been outlined in detail and are available for review through official county resources.

The consolidation of these two districts into one unified agricultural district covering the entire county is among the most significant proposals on the table. Such a change could help streamline the administration of the program and provide a more cohesive structure for landowners and farmers across Monroe County.

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“Please take notice that in accordance with Article 25-AA, Section 303 of NYS Agriculture and Market Law, a public hearing will be held by the Planning & Economic Development Committee of the Monroe County Legislature on Monday, July 21, 2025 at 5:45 P.M., at the Legislative Chambers in the County Office Building, 39 West Main Street, Rochester, New York regarding the eight year review of the Monroe County Western Agricultural District No. 5 and Eastern Agricultural District No. 6.”

Community members are encouraged to attend this hearing and share their perspectives. Their feedback will help guide decisions that impact not only current landowners but also the future of agriculture throughout Monroe County.