I. "Economic revitalization zone" means a zone with a single continuous boundary, designated in accordance with the rules adopted under RSA 162-N:8, and having at least one of the following characteristics:
(a) Unused or underutilized industrial parks; or
(b) Vacant land or structures previously used for industrial, commercial, or retail purposes but currently not so used due to demolition, age, obsolescence, deterioration, brownfields, relocation of the former occupant's operations, or cessation of operation resulting from unfavorable economic conditions either generally or in a specific economic sector.
II. Economic revitalization zones shall be designated by the commissioner of business and economic affairs only upon petition by the local governing body, as defined by RSA 672:6, or the town council. The commissioner of business and economic affairs shall certify that the economic revitalization zone meets the criteria required in paragraph I.