§ 119-aa. Purpose. It is hereby declared to be the purpose of this article to encourage local governmental programs for the preservation, restoration and maintenance of the historical, architectural, archeological and cultural environment by clarifying and amplifying existing authority and providing necessary tools for such purpose. The framework provided by this article is intended to maintain and encourage the opportunity and flexibility for the counties, cities, towns and villages of the state to manage the historic and cultural properties under their jurisdiction in a spirit of stewardship and trusteeship for future generations and to authorize local governments to conduct their activities, plans and programs in a manner consistent with the preservation and enhancement of historic and cultural properties.