This fall, people in the Town of Monroe will vote on whether to create a new town.
The Orange County Legislature approved a referendum vote Thursday night. If the referendum vote passes, the village of Kiryas Joel, which is currently in the Town of Monroe, will become the village of Palm Tree.
School districts would also be likely be redrawn contingent on agreement between United Monroe and Kiryas Joel. In recent years, Monroe and Kiryas Joel have clashed over their visions for different area projects.
Those in favor say it would allow them to operate independently.
"We already have the town of Monroe, but it will be split in half, basically," said Orange County Legislature Chairman Steve Brescia. "And from what we've heard, the residents down there want separation."
Those against the referendum say it would affect more than just Monroe residents.
"I think this is going to have an impact county-wide," said Blooming Grove resident Sue AnneVogelsberg. "All county residents need to be able to vote on this."
The referendum is scheduled for November 7.