1. The legislature finds that in order to facilitate regional planning for Long Island, local governments within the reserve but located outside of the Central Pine Barrens area may similarly benefit from the planning effort undertaken by the commission. Therefore, after the completion, ratification, and adoption of the comprehensive land use plan and upon application to the commission, the towns of East Hampton, Shelter Island, and Southold may elect, by duly adopted resolution of their town boards, to join the commission or establish a similar planning effort for those areas outside the Central Pine Barrens area and within the reserve that warrant and would benefit from such regional efforts consistent with the goals and objectives of this title.

2. All benefits and obligations which accrue to municipalities which participate with the commission shall be afforded to the municipalities of the South and North Fork which elect to voluntarily participate in this process, subject to the obligations of this title. Such benefits may include funding for the development and implementation of regional plans. The provisions of this title with respect to the interim provisions shall not apply. To the extent feasible, towns electing to develop and implement such regional plans consistent with this title, shall utilize the commission and its supportive structure.

3. Upon completion, ratification, and adoption of the comprehensive land use plan, and an expressed interest on the part of the towns of East Hampton, Shelter Island, or Southold, the commission shall establish criteria for participating in this process. Such criteria may not include the imposition of a moratorium or restriction of development as a requirement for participation.