The fast-growing Hasidic Jewish village of Kiryas Joel has finalized an agreement with local opponents that could ease its path to expanding its borders as a more independent town.

Kiryas Joel would become the town of Palm Tree only if the proposal is approved by a supermajority of county lawmakers and voters in the surrounding Hudson Valley town of Monroe.

The deal is designed to reduce long-standing tensions between the densely populated village and residents of the suburban area about 50 miles (80 kilometers) north of New York City.

As part of the deal, the local residents’ group, United Monroe, agreed to drop its opposition to an approved 164-acre (66-hectare) expansion and support the addition of 56 more acres (22 hectares).

Kiryas Joel agreed to a 10-year prohibition on supporting new annexation petitions.

(AP)