Cyndi McNamara, Councilwoman | Rick Martel, Councilman
Michael A. Iasilli, Councilmember | William Pell IV, Councilman
RECOGNIZING THE WORK OF FIRST RESPONDERS
The Southampton Town Board is grateful to all the first responders, community members, and local officials from the state, county, town, village and 106th Rescue Wing who came together to help us during the wildfires that affected the western part of our township this past March. All agencies worked in full coordination to deploy the necessary resources, equipment and personnel to protect the lives and property of our community. We were fortunate to have veteran firefighters among us who fought the 1995 wildfires. Their experience, training and dedication were invaluable. On behalf of the Town Board, Councilmember Michael Iasilli presented a certificate of appreciation to our First Responders, including the Fire Departments of Hampton Bays and Eastport, for their dedication in collaborating with County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services to mitigate the wildfires.
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NORTH SEA SOLAR ARRAY LAUNCHED IN MARCH
On March 26, Southampton Town officials, staff, and community members gathered for the North Sea Solar Array Ribbon-Cutting ceremony. The event was emceed by former Deputy Supervisor Frank Zappone and attended by Supervisor Maria Moore, Councilmember Michael Iasilli, and Councilwoman Cyndi McNamara, as well as numerous business people, engineers, electricians, construction managers, and current/former employees who shepherded the project from inception to completion. After introductions and thanks to key personnel, Mr. Zappone shared the solar array’s timeline and components, highlighting the many benefits it brings to Southampton Town. Supervisor Moore also thanked project facilitators before cutting the red satin ribbon, heralding the solar array’s production launch. The new solar array is the first municipally supported structure of its kind. The array sits on portions of the decommissioned 17-acre North Sea Landfill, part of a 131-acre site remediated in the 1990s to become the home of the North Sea Transfer Station, the Southampton Youth Services facility, and North Sea Community Park. Its 11,500+ panels will produce 8.6 million kilowatts per year, enough energy to power 773 households; its lease will provide $ 1.65 million in non-taxpayer revenue for the Town. Additionally, the site provides no-cost energy credits for 20 years, reducing energy bills for both the Town and the community.
TOWN OF SOUTHAMPTON SUPPORTS EAST END BUSINESS
On July 9, Supervisor Maria Moore joined Kathee Burke-Gonzalez, Supervisor of East Hampton; Timothy Hubbard, Supervisor of Riverhead; Al Krupski, Supervisor of Southold; and Amber Brach-Williams, Supervisor of Shelter Island, for a special panel discussion hosted by Long Island Association (LIA) President & CEO Matt Cohen. This event highlighted the LIA’s East End Advocacy Agenda, emphasizing the distinct challenges and opportunities in Housing, Transportation, Business Development, Workforce, and Environment across both the North and South Forks.
The East End is notable for its rich concentration of agriculture, aquaculture, viticulture, tourism, and hospitality sectors, which are the foundation of its local economy. These industries not only shape the economic framework of the region but also enhance its cultural and community identity, transforming the East End into a vibrant year-round economy that is essential to the entire island. A key function of the LIA is to advocate for the economic growth and development of our region at the federal, state, and local government levels.
TOWN CLERK TECHNOLOGY UPGRADES AND IMPROVEMENTS
Town Clerk Sundy Schermeyer’s Office has been actively enhancing technology, with a focus on improving our online access to government services for our residents and visitors.
You can now apply online for Town Clerk permits through the Town Clerk Online Applications portal on the town’s website. It has never been easier to send your applications; you can do it anywhere using your mobile phone, tablet, or laptop.
You will receive reminders by email, can renew permits online and pay easily. The following applications are now available to be submitted online: Disabled Parking Permit, Dog License, Domestic Partnership, Drop-off Bin Permit, Long Term Parking, Marriage License, One Day Officiant, Peddlers, and Veteran Discount Cards.
Additionally, a new and enhanced Meeting Management Agenda record-keeping program, eScribe, will be rolling out this fall. This efficient cloud-based agenda and meeting management software is customized to meet the evolving needs of the public sector while continuing to reduce costs in the delivery of constituent services.
WWW.SOUTHAMPTONTOWNNY.GOV/TOWNCLERK
NEW & IMPROVED TOWN FACILITIES
Restored Westhampton Beach Windmill
Unveiled In July
On July 2, local officials gathered alongside community members for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the Westhampton Beach Windmill, now situated on the Great Lawn in Westhampton Beach.
The historic 1870 Gov. John Adams Dix Windmill, generously donated by the Hutt family, was relocated thanks to the collaborative efforts of the local community, Westhampton Beach Village, and the Town of Southampton. This restored landmark now functions as an operational water-pumping windmill, serving as a testament to the 24th New York State Governor and his family’s connections to this region. It will also serve as a historical resource for future generations.
Southampton Town’s Community Preservation Fund, the Village of Westhampton Beach, historic preservation grants, private donations, and the Greater Westhampton Historical Museum supported the windmill’s restoration. This project exemplifies a genuine community partnership, and we express our gratitude to everyone involved for their dedication to creating this important landmark.
Restored Amenities At Reeves Bay Overlook
Celebrated In June
On June 25, Southampton Town officials, staff and community members gathered at Reeves Bay Overlook in Flanders for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil its restored barn and trailhead, new parking area, walking path, catwalk and observation deck. Designed to encompass the Town of Southampton’s Community Preservation Department’s mission of conserving historic, recreational, and environmental parcels of value, the Reeves Bay Overlook, with its extensive boardwalk over the marsh, meets these goals. The trail showcases the beauty of Reeves Bay and its flora, wildlife, and historic vistas.
UNVEILING: PARK VISION FOR BEL AIRE COVE PROPERTY
At a recent Hampton Bays Civic Association meeting, Councilmembers Rick Martel and Bill Pell, along with Trustee Scott Horowitz and CPF Director Jacquie Fenlon, presented the plans for the new park at the former Bel Aire Cove Motel site. Councilman Martel gave a brief history of the property, starting with its purchase in 2019. When the Town requested proposals for its redevelopment, the community protested, fearing it would once again become overcrowded and blighted. Councilman Martel then met with community group representatives, and all agreed that it should become a park. The land was transferred in 2024 to the Community Preservation Fund with that goal in mind.
Councilman Pell shared plans for a covered pavilion, parking spaces, a new low-sill bulkhead to improve wetlands on the adjoining Trustee property, and a kayak rack that the Trustees will manage. In the future, exercise equipment, benches and bathrooms may be added if the park is being used and the community wants it.
TOWN INTRODUCES LAW ESTABLISHING TAX EXEMPTION FOR VILLAGE OCEAN RESCUE SQUAD
In May 2025, the Town Board unanimously voted to adopt Local Law No. 607 of 2025, which amends Chapter 298 of the Southampton Town Code to establish a property tax exemption for enrolled members of Southampton Village Ocean Rescue Squad.
“The Town of Southampton Ocean Rescue members serve as a critical first responder unit, protecting lives along the local waterfront. This new law ensures Squad Members receive equitable benefits similar to those granted to other first responder units,” commented Councilmember Iasilli. “I applaud Assembly member Schiavoni and Senator Palumbo for their efforts working together and getting this done for us.”
FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS CLASS
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, FROM 8 A.M. TO 4 P.M.
Join us on Saturday, October 25, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Hampton Bays Community Center, where the Town of Southampton Housing and Community Services Department, in collaboration with Community Development Long Island (CDLI), will be hosting a First-Time Homebuyers Class. Discover everything you need to know about purchasing a home!
Event Highlights
• Loan Officer – Grasp financing and mortgage options.
• Attorney – Understand your legal rights and responsibilities.
• Insurance Agent – Learn how to safeguard your investment.
Why Attend This Class?
• Realtor – Learn how to navigate the housing market.
• Home Inspector – Know what to look for in a home.
• Receive exper t advice and guidance from professionals.
This course is essential for most Down Payment Assistance Programs, recognized by Town & County Grant Programs, and will empower you to feel confident, informed, and prepared to take the next step. For more information about the class or to register, please contact CDLI at 631-471-1215 ext 8398, space is limited and registration is on a first come first serve basis.
CDLI also provides current homeowners with insights into their home improvement initiatives, home preservation efforts, and the ADU loan program. CDLI holds open office hours at Southampton Town Hall every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and at the Housing and Community Services office located at 240 W. Montauk Highway, Hampton Bays, every Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to assist residents with the ADU program
For more information, visitwww.southamptontownny.gov/housing or contact the Housing Department at 631-702-1745.
TOWN OF SOUTHAMPTON RECOGNIZES
‘ADOPT A SHELTER PET DAY’ IN APRIL
On April 26, the community came together at the Southampton Animal Shelter in Hampton Bays to celebrate the Town’s recently designated ‘Adopt a Pet Day,’ an initiative led by Councilmember Iasilli and backed by the Town Board.
Councilmember Iasilli commented, “It is an amazing opportunity to help the Shelter as it makes critically important renovations in the coming months. Thanks to last year’s efforts in partnership with Public Safety Director Ryan Murphy, the Town Board was able to secure grant funding through the NYS Companion Animal Capital Fund of over $400,000. The community’s effort in adopting or fostering a pet will help the Shelter to work through this transition, expected to begin in September.”
If interested, contact the Animal Shelter at (631) 728-PETS (7387).
HONOR FLIGHT TAKES VETERANS TO DC MEMORIALS
On May 3, Honor Flight Long Island (HFLI) flew 45 Korean and Vietnam War veterans to Washington DC for a daytrip to visit the memorials. HFLI was honored to have the following Southampton Town officials on the flight who served as Guardians: Ann Welker, Suffolk County Legislator, 2nd District and former Southampton Town Trustee; Theresa Kiernan, Southampton Town Tax Receiver; and Marietta Seaman, former Southampton Town Clerk. A second major donation from the Hicksville Veterans Association to HFLI paid for the cost of all veterans on this flight. At the request of the Association, this flight was designated in honor of Southampton Town Employee and HFLI Flight Coordinator Jamie Bowden and her father, Vietnam Veteran Gary Cunningham, USMC 1964-1968, who passed away in January. Jamie proudly served as Dad’s Guardian on the Spring 2022 flight.
For more information about Honor Flight Long Island contact Jamie Bowden at 631-702-2423.
Pictured above, left to right: Bill Jones, HFLI President, guardian Deborah Thomas, Vietnam Veteran Bruce Grier (Southampton), Korean War Veteran Joseph Cirillo, guardian Theresa Kiernan, Southampton Town Tax Receiver, Korean War Veteran Joseph Colletti (East Quogue), guardian Cheryl Rozzi, Vietnam Veteran Martin Downs (East Quogue), guardian Ann Welker, Suffolk County Legislator, 2nd District, guardians Charles Seaman and Marietta Seaman, former Southampton Town Clerk and Vietnam Veterans Joseph Mandia and Thomas Smith.
SOUTHAMPTON TOWN’S TRIBUTE TO EDITH WINDSOR
AND THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY
On June 26, the Southampton Town Board came together with Legislator Ann Welker, Town Clerk Sundy Schermeyer, Tracy Kolsin of the Southampton Town Youth Bureau, and Micah Schneider, Programs Director of the LGBT Network, to celebrate Pride Month by hosting a press conference at the memorial for Edith Windsor. This event provided an opportunity to honor the resilience, contributions, and visibility of the LGBTQ+ community, while also recognizing the significant impact of Edith Windsor’s advocacy.
SC GABRESKI COMMUNITY ADVISORY
AND REVIEW BOARD MEETS JULY 15
On July 15, the Suffolk County Gabreski Community Advisory and Review Board met at the Riverhead County Center, led by Suffolk County Legislator Ann Welker. The Committee covered topics like noise and flight approach changes at the airport located in Westhampton.
Established under County Resolution 224-2023, the Board provides a forum for public engagement and oversight. This year the committee welcomed Councilmember Michael Iasilli, who succeeded Assemblyman Tommy John Schiavoni as Vice Chair of the Committee. The Committee decided to issue a letter to the FAA requesting staff at the Control Tower beyond 11 p.m. to ensure staffing through the midnight and early morning hours. Currently, dispatch is outsourced after 11 p.m. to other Air Traffic Control teams. With community concerns raised about low flying planes at 2 or 3 in the morning, having localized Air Traffic Control properly staffed to advise on correct flight paths will be important.
MUNICIPAL WORKS
COMMUNITY PROJECT 2025 UPDATE
Recently Completed Construction Projects:
Structure Demolition at 20 South Valley Road (June 2025)
Demolished and removed two condemned asbestos-containing structures from a CPF property in Hampton Bays. Property proposed for development into a nature preserve.
Southampton Youth Services Center
Roof Replacement (June 2025)
Replaced 67,000 SF roof atop the existing SYS Center in North Sea.
Flanders Community Center
Exterior Recreation Activities (July 2025)
Installed a permeable paver picnic patio, bocce court, and two concrete game tables in the rear yard and garden area at the Community Center for use by senior center and youth center visitors.
Hampton Bays Bike Trail and Lane (July 2025)
Installed a bike trail in Good Ground Park that transitions to an on-road bike lane leading to Red Creek Park in Hampton Bays. Project funded in part by a New York State Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant.
Projects Scheduled for Construction:
Bridgehampton Community House Column Restoration (August 2025)
Project to remove and restore four historic wood stave columns located on the front portico.
Town Hall Façade Restoration (August 2025)
Project to repair and restore the masonry façade, wood trim and other exterior building wall elements on Town Hall.
Project to replace the existing dog kennels with new kennels that meet current animal welfare standards.
Southampton Animal Shelter Sanitary System Upgrade (September 2025)
Project to remove the existing conventional sanitary system and update to an innovative alternative onsite wastewater treatment system.
Good Ground Park Bike Trail entrance and Lane that transitions to an on-road bike lane leading to Red Creek Park in Hampton Bays.
TOWN LAUNCHES TRAFFIC PSA WITH POLICE DEPARTMENT
In fulfilling a key recommendation of the Town’s Traffic Safety and Mitigation Taskforce and in an effort to raise awareness of safe driving standards, Councilmember Michael Iasilli coordinated with the Town Police Chief, James Kiernan, and the Town’s SEA-TV team to conduct numerous Public Service Announcement videos. The segments have been streaming on social media and other platforms to inform drivers of the rules of the road and to deter speeding.
STPD RECEIVES LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT DONATION FROM HAMPTONS HEALTH SOCIETY
Dr. Peter Michalos, Chairman of the Hamptons Health Society, recently presented the Southampton Town Police Department with a generous donation of eight Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and Individual Trauma Kits, totaling over $25,000 in value.
These new AEDs will be installed in patrol sector vehicles—our primary response units to medical emergencies throughout the community. They will replace older models currently in service, ensuring our officers are equipped with the most advanced and reliable tools available to save lives. In addition to the AEDs, officers will now carry Individual Trauma Kits on their duty belts. These all-in-one kits are designed to address severe bleeding injuries and include essential lifesaving components such as combat gauze, chest seals, and tourniquets.
The Southampton Town Police Department extends its sincere gratitude to Dr. Michalos and the Hamptons Health Society for their continued commitment to public safety.
STPD FOSTERS COMMUNITY RELATIONSHIPS WITH POLICING INITIATIVES
The Southampton Town Police Department continues to implement community policing initiatives to foster trust and collaboration between police and their communities. These programs, such as Coffee with a Cop, Shop with a Cop, School Resource Officers, and Civilian Police Academy, highlight the importance of proactive engagement, problem solving, and partnerships between officers and residents to address community issues.
Notable 2025 Events Included:
• 2025 Civilian Police Academy. This 18week program teaches participants about police procedure, laws, firearms safety, CPR training, emergency vehicle operations, domestic violence, laws of arrest, and many other topics. We congratulate our 22 graduates and look forward to seeing them around the community.
• Who’s Smarter Than a 6th Grader? Members of the Southampton Police Department enjoyed a day with the students at East Quogue Elementary School playing this great game, which schooled us in the end. Great job!
• Police Day at Hampton Bays Middle School . On June 23, Southampton Town, Southampton Village, New York State, and Suffolk County Police provided K9, Drone, Emergency Service Unit, and Aviation demonstrations for Hampton Bays Middle School students.
• 4th Annual D.A.R.E. “Keepin’ It Real” Graduation. Bridgehampton School 5th graders recently celebrated the completion of a 10-lesson journey designed to empower students with essential life skills. This evidence-based curriculum builds on selfawareness and self-management, aiming to foster responsible decision-making, effective communication, and healthy, drugfree lifestyles.
The Southampton Town Police Department remains dedicated to taking meaningful steps in equipping our youth with tools to pursue safe choices, strong relationships, and positive futures.
NEW GAPVAX & TREE TRUCKS JOIN THE HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT’S FLEET
The Southampton Town Highway Department is proud to announce the addition of two new trucks to its fleet of service vehicles. The new tree truck is equipped with a high-reach bucket lift, chipper body, and onboard hydraulic tools, making it ideal for handling a wide range of roadside tree maintenance tasks. It allows crews to respond quicker to fallen limbs, hazardous trees, and vegetation that may obstruct roadways or traffic signs. In addition to regular maintenance, the tree truck will aid in storm cleanup, roadside vegetation control, and improving visibility near intersections and signage. Its added storage and enhanced safety lighting also ensure the crew can operate more effectively while minimizing disruptions to traffic.
The highway department also welcomes a powerful new tool to its fleet—a state-of-the-art GapVax vacuum truck. Veteran operator Greg King inspected the rig, ensuring its readiness for field deployment. This new truck will boost efficiency in storm drain cleaning, hydro excavation, and debris removal.
The specialized equipment these trucks provide will play a vital role in keeping our roadways clear, safe, and well maintained throughout the year.
BY ORDER OF SOUTHAMPTON TOWN CODE CHAPTER 235-2B SEASONAL GAS LEAF BLOWER BAN
• Gas-powered Leaf Blowers are completely prohibited May 20 – September 20.
• Restricted use is permitted September 21 - May 19.
• They may not be used on Sundays or Holidays.
• Restricted usage is 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. only.
• Not more than two are permitted on lots ½ acre or smaller.
• Electric Leaf Blowers are exempted from these restrictions.
TOWN ADOPTS NEW BESS CODE
At the June 10 meeting, the Southampton Town Board voted unanimously on legislation co-sponsored by Councilwoman Cyndi McNamara and Supervisor Maria Moore, providing clear guidance for the permitting of battery energy storage systems (BESS) in the Town of Southampton.
The new code uses a tier system that allows for the consideration of appropriately sized BESS facilities to be designed, located, operated, and maintained, minimizing risks associated with facility equipment and fire potential. Systems over 600 kWH to 5 MW may only be requested within Light Industrial zones as part of a Special Exception Review by the Planning Board. Eligible parcels for systems greater than 600 kWH shall not be permitted within 300 feet of any parcel containing existing residential uses, zoned residential and/or occupied community buildings. To protect the health and safety of the community, BESS applications with an energy storage capacity that exceeds 600 kWh will not be permitted in any business district. This legislation corresponds to the findings of a select Town based BESS Steering Committee formed in response to public health and safety concerns expressed at many Town Board meetings and community meetings, and through correspondence. Councilwoman McNamara stated, “I am proud of the work done by the BESS Steering Committee and believe this code can stand as a model for other local municipalities as it takes our unique environmental and geographical issues into account.” Supervisor Moore stated, “This legislation is a testament to what can be accomplished when we move beyond stalemate and toward thoughtful, solutions-oriented governance. This code is the product of sustained work by the Town Board, the BESS Steering Committee, our Planning Department and our legal team. I am proud that Southampton Town can now serve as a model for other municipalities seeking to integrate battery energy storage safely and responsibly.”
SENIORS CELEBRATE OLDER AMERICANS’ MONTH IN MAY
During the month of May, the Senior Services division celebrated Older Americans’ Month and National Senior Health & Fitness Day. This year’s theme is “Move Today for a Better Tomorrow,” aiming to promote physical activity and healthy living among older adults.
On May 21, the Hampton Bays Senior Center hosted Ms. Poremba’s first-grade class for some games in recognition of Older Americans’ Month. We had an absolute blast at our Intergenerational Game Day, an event that brings together people from different generations to enjoy the joys of teamwork and friendly competition.
On May 28, we continued our celebrations as seniors came together at Good Ground Park to enjoy some fresh air and partake in a bit of “seated” Yoga in the amphitheater. Seated Yoga offers a variety of benefits. It improves flexibility, strength, and balance, while also helping to reduce pain and stress, all in a low-impact and accessible way. Fortunately for our seniors, the rain stayed away, allowing us to commemorate the 32nd year of this fantastic day focused on enhancing the health of our seniors! National Senior Health & Fitness Day is the largest health and wellness event for older adults across the United States, with more than 100,000 seniors engaging in activities nationwide.
CELEBRATING SOUTHAMPTON TOWN’S WOMEN OF DISTINCTION
On March 6, the Town’s Anti-Bias Task Force (ABTF) held a special celebration for Women of Distinction, honoring women in Southampton Town whose remarkable contributions have made significant impact on our community.
After an invocation by Elder Gerald Martin, Vice Chairperson of ABTF, Chairman James Banks welcomed guests and introduced local dignitaries. Supervisor Maria Moore congratulated the women to be honored before ABTF member Geneva Taylor read “Phenomenal Woman,” a poem by the late Dr. Maya Angelou. While Supervisor Moore, Chairman Banks, and Councilmember Michael Iasilli presented the honorees with their certificates, Teddy Turpin of the African American Educational & Cultural Festival, Inc. played a moving musical selection. After the event, attendees enjoyed refreshments and each other’s company.
The women honored this year for their outstanding service are Bonnie Michelle Cannon, Mary Crosby, Pamela Greinke, Roberta Hunter, Esq., Jerlean Hopson, Denise Merchant-Williams, Wendy Pearson, Dr. Lillian Pennon, Denise Smith-Meacham, Tela Troge, Esq., Rev. Joanne Utley, and Arlene Vanslyke.
The Town is grateful for the contributions of these remarkable women.
TOWN HONORS
ROBERT ROSS IN HIS RETIREMENT
In recognition of his official retirement on May 29, 2025, from his position as Southampton Hospital’s Vice President of Community and Government Relations, Robert I. Ross was honored at the July 8 Town Board meeting with a Proclamation thanking him for his many years of public service.
Mr. Ross served as Deputy Supervisor during Patrick “Skip” Heaney’s administration (2002-2006). Additionally, he has served our community via membership in the Hampton Bays Civic Association, Hampton Bays Citizens Advisory Committee, Hampton Bays Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Rotary Club of Southampton, and other local organizations. His notable accomplishments include keeping the 106th Rescue Wing of the Air National Guard in Westhampton, facilitating Southampton Hospital’s merger with Stony Brook Medicine, and having the Big Duck returned to Flanders.
With gratitude for his outstanding contributions, the Town wishes Mr. Ross much health and happiness in retirement.
COUNCILWOMAN MCNAMARA UNVEILS HOMETOWN HEROES BANNER PROGRAM
In honor of Memorial Day, Councilwoman Cyndi McNamara unveiled this year’s Hometown Heroes. The program, spearheaded by Councilwoman McNamara and Westhampton VFW Post 5350, honors our local military by displaying their picture and military service on personalized banners in Good Ground Park in Hampton Bays. Posted QR codes link to a web page where visitors can read or listen to the veterans’ stories.
“Having the ability to support and honor our veterans is one of the greatest aspects of my job,” stated Councilwoman McNamara, liaison to the Veterans Affairs Committee. “This year, I was proud to honor my grandfather, Anthony Graneri, a Bronze Star recipient who served in WWII, Korea and Vietnam. He served for 22 years before retiring from the Air Force from his last post at Suffolk County Air Force Base Westhampton Beach. He is my hero.” Commander of VFW Post 5350 and Chair of the Veterans Affairs Committee Bill Hughes stated, “Veterans’ family and friends are proud and honored to share their military experience with those who visit Good Ground Park. Sharing the veteran experience is, at times, difficult and is different in each case, but almost all are proud of the service and sacrifice given to keep our nation strong and free.”
The banner program will run from Memorial Day through Veterans Day at Good Ground Park located at 9A Squiretown Road in Hampton Bays. All sponsors receive their banners at the end of the program period.
GREAT EASTER EGG HUNT FINDS SPRINGTIME SUCCESS
The Hampton Bays Chamber of Commerce and Southampton Parks and Recreation Department organized the Great Easter Egg Hunt at Good Ground Park on April 5. The event included a free egg hunt, photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny, Mother Goose, a DJ dance party, face painting, and a food truck. With 16,000 eggs scattered, the event was enjoyable for all ages. Many thanks to Southampton Parks and Recreation, and the Hampton Bays Chamber of Commerce and local schools for their tireless efforts in making the event a success.
FIRST “SANDTASTIC” SCULPTURE SHOWDOWN
On July 28 the Youth Bureau in partnership with Friends of Southampton Town Youth (FOSTY) held its first SANDtastic Sculpture Showdown at Ponquogue Beach. Eleven teams competed for best in show. Although there were many great builds, only one could be a winner.
First place was Triton’s Tower, second place was PRIDE, and third place went to Volcanic Eruption. Special mention goes to the USAF 106 Squadron build. A very BIG thank you to all our supporters, Tote Taxi, Riverhead Building Supply, News 12, the Hampton Bays Ambulance, and the Southampton Parks Department. We are always grateful for the generosity and supporting our local youth.
YOUTH BUREAU’S NATURE NAVIGATORS PROGRAM
The Southampton Youth Bureau’s Nature Navigators 2025 summer program was excited to offer middle school students an enriching blend of adventure, creativity, and environmental education. Each week, campers explored a new nature-based theme through hands-on activities like gardening, birdhouse painting, local U-pick farm visits, and art projects using natural materials. A program highlight was a special visit from the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department, where program participants were introduced to the K9 Unit and witnessed a live drone demonstration. Their visit tied perfectly into the week’s theme of Navigating Nature, emphasizing how to safely explore the outdoors and stay aware of one’s surroundings. The experience sparked excitement and curiosity, giving participants a positive and inspiring look into local law enforcement and public safety. With a focus on connection—to nature, to the community, and to one another—Nature Navigators continues to foster growth, teamwork, and unforgettable summer memories.
2025 BROADER HORIZONS INTERNSHIP PROGRAM A SUCCESS
The Youth Bureau’s 2025 Broader Horizons Summer Internship Program was incredibly successful! Fifteen student interns, aged 14 to 17, utilized their newly acquired skills at various placements, including the Town Attorney’s Office, the Department of Public Safety and Emergency Management, Human Resources, Senior Services, Records Management, the Community Preservation Fund, the Youth Bureau, and other collaborating agencies.
Before starting their internships, the students underwent a 15-hour job readiness training at Southampton Town Hall. This training covered essential topics such as job skills and expectations, career exploration, and money management. Once they completed the training, the interns were able to apply their knowledge in real-world environments, gaining invaluable experience and making significant contributions at their designated worksites.
The Youth Bureau extends its gratitude to all Town departments that participated in this year’s program. Their support was instrumental in creating a fulfilling experience for the student interns and had a meaningful impact across various departments. For further information, please visit www.southamptontownny.gov/Broader-Horizons.
BETTER ROADS THANKS TO OUR HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT
Noyac Road Enhancements
The Highway Department, with the financial support of the Town Board, completed the first phase of the repaving of Noyac Road, helping to enhance the roadway infrastructure in Noyac. Noyac Road has been made consistently 30 MPH; prior, 35 MPH had been posted in some places, making the speed limit inconsistent throughout the corridor. In working with the Police Department and Highway Superintendent Charlie McArdle, and in an attempt to address constituent concerns of speeding, the Town approved legislation for and has launched a number of efforts to deal with the issue, such as enhanced speed monitoring and safety upgrades to intersections.
Stop Sign Added at Long Beach Road & Noyac Road Intersection
As part of ongoing traffic safety improvements, the Highway Department installed a stop sign on the island section at the intersection of Long Beach and Noyac Road. This measure will enhance vehicle and pedestrian safety by improving traffic control at this key junction. Photo above.
Pedestrian Access Improved at Good Ground Road, Hampton Bays
The intersection of Good Ground Road and Ponquogue Avenue in Hampton Bays underwent significant upgrades to enhance both vehicle safety and pedestrian access. This project was part of a broader initiative to modernize high-traffic intersections and improve community walkability. Photo at right, top.
Cobb Road Culvert Replacement
This improvement involves the replacement of an existing culvert and the installation of guide rails along Cobb Road to enhance aquatic organism passage (AOP) and pedestrian safety. The outdated culvert currently impedes fish movement and contributes to localized flooding during storm events. Additionally, the absence of proper roadside safety barriers presents risks for both vehicular and foot traffic. Photo at right.
Site visit from 2024 of Noyac Road, (L-R) Town Councilmember Iasilli, Highway Superintendent Charlie McArdle, Deputy Highway Superintendent Marc Braeger
2025 GREAT EAST END CLEAN-UP
The Great East End Clean-Up took place throughout Southampton Town on April 26 and 27 in celebration of Earth Day. Approximately 530 volunteers removed 2.7 tons of garbage from our beaches, parks, trails, and roadsides.
Councilwoman Cyndi McNamara wrapped up the event by joining the Southampton Youth Bureau’s Youth Advisory Committee and Jessica Guallpa from the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office of Community Affairs in cleaning up under the bridges along the Shinnecock Canal.
Every year, the youth vote on what area of the town to clean up and every year they choose under the bridges because they believe it is such a neglected area. Fishing lines, alcohol bottles, and cigarette butts were among the items collected.
“As we were cleaning under the Sunrise Highway bridge, there was garbage coming down from the vehicles above.” Councilwoman McNamara stated. “Nobody wants to be a litterbug, and sometimes items fly out while driving. Please be mindful of this and keep an eye on the beds of your trucks.”
Some groups postponed their efforts due to the rainy Saturday and others, like the VFW and American Legion, braved the weather and cleaned up Good Ground Road in Hampton Bays.
“I want to thank all of the volunteers,” stated Councilwoman McNamara. “Everyone did a great job cleaning up. It really does make a difference in our Town.”
WATER CONSERVATION PROJECT UPDATES
The Hampton Bays Water District is committed to conserving Long Island’s groundwater system, which serves as the sole source of drinking water for all of Long Island, including Hampton Bays. To preserve the water supply, the District is implementing water-sprinkling measures during the warm weather months of May through September. The District is promoting a voluntary Odd-Even Lawn Water Program, requiring odd-numbered addresses to irrigate on odd-numbered days and even-numbered addresses to irrigate on even-numbered days. The system should run from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. and not be used in the middle of the night. Weather Smart Irrigation Controllers can also help conserve water by connecting to a weather station via WiFi. The District is investing in modernizing and improving its water infrastructure, conducting thorough assessments and implementing strategic upgrades to ensure the long-term integrity of the water system. A copy of the Water Quality Report is available for review.
For any additional inquiries regarding the Hampton Bays Water District, please www.southamptontownny. gov/hbwd or contact
631-728-0179
LIFEGUARD TEAM COMPETES AT ALL WOMEN’S TOURNAMENT
Our Women’s Lifeguard Team competed at the Town of Hempstead All Women’s Tournament. They went up against Jones Beach, Smith’s Point, Long Beach, Fire Island, and others. These are the results:
• Kiley Kaiser placed 2nd in the run-paddle-run
• Elena Mugno & Bella Mugno placed 2nd in the surf rescue race
• Landline team of Mackenzie Mahoney, Bella Mugno, Kiley Kaiser, Emily Tully and Lizzie Knierman placed 3rd
• Kiley Kaiser and Lily Corcran placed first in the paddle rescue race
• Lizzie Knierman placed 3rd in beach flags
It is proof that we have a strong program, and they work hard.
