Hundreds attended a forum Thursday on the controversial proposed land annexation involving the Village of Kiryas Joel.

The Hasidic Village of Kiryas Joel is overseeing a proposed land expansion to double the municipality in size.

The crowd erupted into cheers after first speaker, Assemblyman James Skoufis, questioned the legality of the land deal. A number of other local leaders, as well as county residents, also shared their concerns about Kiryas Joel's expansion plans, including increased taxpayer costs, water and sewer needs and wildlife preservation.

The comments will be part of the county's promised parallel review of the environmental impact study Kiryas Joel is performing.

Residents in the growing ultra-orthodox village say the proposal is based on their need for more room and say opposition is discriminatory.

County Executive Steve Neuhaus said Thursday's comments and concerns will be sent to the state.