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Thursday, April 16, 2026 ~ Volume 71 ~ Issue Number 20 ~ $1.00
Overtime: State Budget Drags On By Matt Meduri The New York State Budget is delayed this year, which does not come as a surprise to many Albany insiders. The April 1 deadline is now two weeks in the rearview mirror. Monday saw the third extender passed as leaders in the Senate and Assembly continue negotiations with Governor Kathy Hochul (D-Hamburg). The last on-time budget in New York was 2019. The spring budgeting season falls on a particularly tense time in Albany, as Governor Hochul continues to spar with the liberal and socialist wings of her party, while paying mind to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s (D-Astoria) progressive wish list - all while running for a second term. Meanwhile, Republicans brace for impact ahead of what many are predicting to be a nationally damaging midterm for the party. Continued on page 5
The State Capital Building in Albany (Credit - Matt Meduri)
Town Seeks Public Input for
Comprehensive Land Use Plan By Matt Meduri The Town of Brookhaven is unfolding its first phase of public engagement for its Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The Town’s current plan was adopted in 1996. Over the last three decades, Brookhaven has grown from about 430,000 residents to closer to 500,000 today. Numerous studies and examinations have taken place in that time to address the shifting needs and characters of its eight incorporated villages and nearly fifty hamlets. Continued on page 10
Brookhaven Town Hall
FULL STORIES ON:
Hochul’s Lead Over Blakeman Shrinks Page 4
Green Upgrades for Patchogue LIRR Page 10
Center Moriches Coach Celebrates 100th Win Page 23