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Smithtown’s Paul T. Given Park

The Town of Smithtown’s transformative Paul T. Given Park project has been awarded $1.5 million in funding through the most recent round of the Regional Economic Development Council Initiative. This announcement, made last month, allocates $16.7 million across nearly 30 projects on Long Island, with Paul T. Given Park as one of the standout recipients.

The funding will go toward revitalizing the park, located west of downtown and near Smithtown’s iconic bull statue.

Planned upgrades include:

  • ADA-accessible pathways and ramps to ensure inclusivity for all visitors.
  • Rain gardens and green drainage systems to prevent road runoff from flowing into the

    Nissequogue River.

  • Revegetation efforts to restore the riverbank and surrounding areas with native plant

    species, while eradicating invasive plants like Japanese knotweed.

  • A raised viewing deck with benches to provide serene vistas of the park and river.
  • New drop-off circle to improve accessibility and visitor experience.

    The enhancements reflect the Town of Smithtown’s dedication to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. Working closely with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the town aims to transform Paul T. Given Park into a natural sanctuary that benefits the community and the local ecosystem.

    “This funding marks a major milestone in our journey to reshape Paul T. Given Park into a community haven for residents and visitors alike. Thanks to the State of New York’s support, we are closer than ever to realizing our vision of a park that embodies Smithtown’s commitment to environmental preservation, accessibility, and sustainable development.” – Supervisor Ed Wehrheim

    The $1.5 million funding includes $1.2 million from the Department of State and $300,000 from New York State Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation. The work is expected to commence next summer and fall.

    Welcome Center Construction Underway

    The Town has already begun construction on the new Welcome Center at Paul T. Given Park, a project that repurposes the former Oasis Gentlemen’s Club. This initiative, funded through a separate grant from the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation, will create a multifunctional facility.

  • Restrooms, and concession area for park visitors.
  • An office for a local canoe/kayak rental business to enhance recreational offerings.
  • Educational exhibits and tourism displays to celebrate Smithtown’s rich cultural, historic,

    and natural attractions.

  • A multipurpose meeting room on the second floor, designed for community groups,

    workshops, and town business.

    Looking Ahead

Upon completion, the new Welcome Center and enhanced Paul T. Given Park will stand as a testament to Smithtown’s progress and its dedication to community enrichment and environmental conservation. These improvements aim to create a space where residents and visitors can connect with nature, learn about local heritage, and enjoy the beauty of the Nissequogue River.

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Photo from Town of Smithtown
Photo from Town of Smithtown
Photo from Town of Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown Animal Shelter has announced the release of its first-ever 2025 Animal Shelter Calendar, showcasing irresistible cats and dogs currently in need of loving homes. This limited-edition calendar is not just a delightful addition to your desk or home but also a heartfelt reminder of the importance of pet adoption.

Each month highlights a shelter animal hoping to find a forever family. Many of the featured pets have been overlooked for adoption for years, making their spotlight in the calendar an opportunity to shine a light on their unique personalities and lovable qualities.

The production of the calendar was made possible through Rescue Rocks, with a suggested donation of $30 per calendar. All of the proceeds (100%) will directly benefit the shelter, funding critical emergency and veterinary care in the coming year.

“This calendar is the perfect New Year’s gift for animal lovers! Not only does it help raise funds for vital care, but it’s also a beautiful way to spread awareness. A coworker, friend, or family member might see a photo of their perfect four-legged match and give a deserving pet the home they’ve been waiting for. Some of these animals have spent years dreaming of their forever family. With this calendar, we hope to turn those dreams into reality,” said Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo, Animal Shelter Liaison.

Featured Animals Include:

  •  Blaze (January): The shelter’s longest resident (over five years) is a loyal, affectionate chocolate-brown pup with a New Year’s wish to find his forever family.
  • Betty-Boop (April): A low-key, 12-year-old “couch hippo” who has spent five years at the shelter. This sweet pibble mix is the ultimate Netflix snuggle buddy.
  •  Mia (December): A goofy, fun-loving Mastiff/Labrador mix longing for a Christmas miracle after four years at the shelter.

    Additional months feature a mix of playful kittens, resilient seniors, and affectionate dogs, all waiting to meet their match.

    How to get your calendar

    Calendars can be picked up during regular visiting hours at the Smithtown Animal Shelter or reserved by phone or email. Donations can be made by visiting the GoFundMe.com page created specifically for the Animal Shelter Calendar: https://gofund.me/69937de2
    Suggested Donation: $30

  • Shelter Address: 410 East Main Street, Smithtown, NY 11787
  •  Contact: (631) 360-7575 | [email protected]
  •  GoFundMe Animal Shelter Calendar Link: https://gofund.me/69937de2

Visitor Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Wednesday Evenings & Sundays: By appointment for pre-approved applicants.

The Smithtown Animal Shelter is dedicated to finding loving homes for all its animals. With your support, the 2025 Calendar will help raise awareness, encourage adoptions, and provide essential care for the shelter’s residents. Don’t miss your chance to make a difference—pick up your calendar today!

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Irene Minicozzi with Brookhaven Town Councilman Michael Loguercio

Irene Minicozzi stopped by Town Hall recently to pick up her daughter’s prize as one of six winners of the Town of Brookhaven’s “Brookhaven Recycles Day” Compost Tumbler Giveaway. Ms. Minicozzi picked up the prize for her daughter, Melissa Carretto who actually won the compost tumbler in Council District 4. Also pictured is Councilman Michael Loguercio.

The online contest was held on Facebook and had entrants pledge to recycle for a chance to win. One winner was selected in each Town Council District. For more information about recycling in the Town of Brookhaven, visit www.BrookhavenNY.gov.

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Town officials broke ground for the new Destination KP Sports Park on Dec. 12. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown

On December 12, Town of Smithtown elected officials joined with Agape Community Sports Services and developer Prospect Sports Partners LLC for the official groundbreaking ceremony for Destination KP Sports Park, a state-of-the-art, 44-acre sports complex that will serve as a premier destination for athletic events and community recreation. The $92 million facility, located at 350 Old Northport Road, will feature a variety of amenities, including:

  • Seven outdoor athletic fields
  • Two outdoor practice fields
  • A 64,800-square-foot multi-floor indoor sports facility
  • A concession building, retail space, and health club
  • 100,000 square feet of medical and commercial office space, primarily focused on sports medicine

The project will be operated by Agape Community Sports Services (ACSS), Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to developing, maintaining, and operating recreational sports facilities on behalf of the general public, State, and local governments.

The groundbreaking marks a major milestone for the Town of Smithtown, aligning with the community’s vision outlined in the updated Master Plan. The Destination KP Sports Park will not only address the increasing demand for athletic field space but also attract significant economic activity to Kings Park and surrounding downtown areas.

“In recent years, the Old Northport Road corridor has seen significant progress, including the addition of an early education academy, a solar farm, and the Flynn Memorial Ballpark complex. A new Starbucks is also under construction at the corner of Indian Head and Old Northport Roads. This growth reflects the Town’s dedication to fulfilling the community’s vision, as expressed through public input during our master plan process. Destination KP will be an exciting and valuable addition, offering much-needed athletic fields, an indoor sports facility, and a premier venue for tournaments and competitions that will help drive economic activity to nearby downtown areas,” said Town of Smithtown Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

Located in an industrial area undergoing transformation, Destination KP is a key part of the Town of Smithtown’s effort to clean up heavy industry properties as they change ownership, while attracting family-friendly businesses and services. The sports park will serve local residents and accommodate regional demand for youth sports tournaments, championships, and recreational activities.

The indoor sports facility is expected to be completed within 12 to 14 months. Project developers Prospect Sports Partners LLC envisionDestination KP as a hub for youth sports, drawing families, athletes, and visitors to the Kings Park region.

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From left to right: County Legislator Robert Trotta, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, TOB Supervisor Dan Panico, TOB Superintendent of Highways Daniel Losquadro, Representative from the Governor's, office Thalia Olaya, and in front, Gloria Rocchio, Ward Melville Heritage Organization President, at a Stony Brook Village press conference. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico (R) announced the opening of two U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) to assist New York businesses and residents affected by the severe storms and flooding which took place this past August 18–19.

The centers, located at the Rose Caracappa Senior Center in Mount Sinai and in the Village of Head of the Harbor in Saint James, will help residents and business owners recover from disaster-related losses.

Loan Details:

● Businesses and Nonprofits: Eligible to borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate, equipment, inventory and other assets.

● Small Businesses, Agricultural Cooperatives, Aquaculture Businesses and Most Private Nonprofits:: Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) are available to help with working capital needs even if no physical property damage occurred.

● Homeowners: Loans up to $500,000 to repair or replace damaged real estate.

● Renters and Homeowners: Loans up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged personal property.

The SBA Customer Service Representatives at the centers can assist with disaster loan applications, accept documents for existing applications and provide status updates. Walk-ins are welcome but appointments can be scheduled.

DLOC Locations and Hours:

Rose Caracappa Senior Center

● 739 NY-25A, Mount Sinai

● Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; Closed Sunday

Village of Head of the Harbor

● 500 N. Country Rd., Saint James

● Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; Closed Sunday

The disaster declaration includes Suffolk County and neighboring Nassau County. Residents affected by the storms are encouraged to visit the centers for assistance. For more information on this program visit www.sba.gov. 

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Photo from Town of Brookhaven

Linda Loftus (center) from Council District 2 (Rocky Point) recently stopped by Town Hall to pick up her prize as one of six winners of the Town of Brookhaven’s “Brookhaven Recycles Day” Compost Tumbler Giveaway. Also pictured is Councilwoman Jane Bonner (right) and Recycling Educator Zachary Sicardi (left). The online contest was held on Facebook and had entrants pledge to recycle for a chance to win. One winner was selected in each Town Council District. For more information about recycling in the Town of Brookhaven, visit www.BrookhavenNY.gov.

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Photo courtesy of Town of Brookhaven
Bruce Hennessy (center) from Council District 1 (Stony Brook) recently stopped by Town Hall to pick up his prize as one of six winners of the Town of Brookhaven’s “Brookhaven Recycles Day” Compost Tumbler Giveaway. Also pictured is Councilperson Jonathan Kornreich (left) and Recycling Educator Zachary Sicardi (right).  The online contest was held on Facebook and had entrants pledge to recycle for a chance to win. One winner was selected in each Town Council District. For more information about recycling in the Town of Brookhaven, visit www.BrookhavenNY.gov.

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Photo courtesy of Councilwoman Bonner's office

On December 7, Town of Brookhaven Councilwoman Jane Bonner (in red coat) joined the Sound Beach Civic and other local organizations at the “Adopt-A-Spot New York Avenue” location.

The Councilwoman presented Town of Brookhaven Certificates of Appreciation to the volunteers who help to keep the north shore community clean and trash-free, including Sound Beach Civic Volunteer groups; Boy Scout Troop 204; Girl Scouts of BSA Troop 2019; Martin Streeff (Streeff Tree Experts); Eugene Radenberg (Community Landscaping); Gayle Hessler (Gardens by Gayle); Soundview Garden Club; the Civic Hamlet Beautification Committee; and  Sound Beach Civic President, Bea Ruberto (right).

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The Town of Smithtown Department of Public Safety employees. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown Department of Public Safety has been awarded $200,000 through the Federal Emergency Operations Centers (EOC) Grant Program provided by FEMA to enhance the town’s emergency preparedness. Announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul, the funding will allow Smithtown to upgrade its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) facilities, improving coordination and response during crises.

“Effective communication during a disaster is the cornerstone of emergency management. We’re especially grateful to Gov. Hochul for this funding, which will allow the Town of Smithtown to enhance our local emergency operations facilities, ensuring we are well-equipped to protect our residents and coordinate response efforts during emergencies,” said Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim (R.)

“I am pleased to see that we have been awarded the grant to update and improve our Emergency Operations Center. With these funds we will reconfigure the EOC, replace antiquated equipment and enhance our interoperability with partner police and fire agencies. This center is staffed 24/7 and our dispatchers will now have all the resources they need at their disposal, greatly enhancing our ability to serve residents not only during disasters but daily, ensuring we operate at the highest capabilities. I’d like to commend Deputy Director Caillat for her work on this project and securing this award,” said the director of public safety, Thomas Lohmann.

The EOC Grant Program supports projects that equip, upgrade and construct emergency operations centers, ensuring municipalities are ready to respond effectively to disasters. These improvements are key to a comprehensive national emergency management system enabling communication and collaboration among emergency organizations across multiple jurisdictions and hazards.

The Town of Smithtown remains steadfast in its commitment to public safety and emergency preparedness. This grant will enhance the town’s ability to respond efficiently to emergencies, supporting a unified approach to disaster management while safeguarding the community.

About the Emergency Operations Centers (EOC) Grant Program

The FEMA EOC Grant Program provides financial assistance to local, state and tribal governments to enhance emergency management capabilities. The program focuses on equipping, upgrading and constructing emergency operations centers to ensure communities are prepared for all-hazard events.

About the Town of Smithtown Emergency Management Unit

The Department of Public Safety serves as the town’s emergency management office and is actively involved in all phases of preparedness for natural and human-made disasters. To plan for disasters, the department coordinates drills with local fire departments, police and other emergency agencies. During actual emergencies, the department integrates activities from its own divisions and local, state and federal agencies. The department also maintains a townwide communications center, which serves as the hub of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) during emergencies.

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Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine

By Lisa Scott

Federal priorities and legislation will be markedly different in 2025. Donald Trump received 55% of Suffolk County votes for President, and both CD1 and CD2 Republican members of Congress were re-elected. (CD3 includes a very small part of northwestern Huntington, and re-elected their Democratic member of Congress). As we move through the coming year, it will be very important to stay in touch with your Congressional representative and express your opinions. If you are not sure of your CD or other elected officials, go to https://voterlookup.elections.ny.gov/ and all your representative districts will be listed.

However, much of what affects our day-to-day lives is determined by New York State, Suffolk County and the 10 Towns that comprise Suffolk so our focus for 2025 should be familiarizing ourselves with local issues  and finances, and making our voices heard on these local levels. 

Suffolk County (according to the 2020 census) has a population of 1.5 million (578,940 households), with a 2024 Operating Budget Revenue of $5.172 billion and 2024 Operating Budget Expenditures of $4.133 billion. The taxable full valuation of property in the county is $405.5 billion. 

Revenue comes from property taxes, sales tax, state aid, federal aid, and other sources. The revenue stream included in the budget is only an estimate of the amounts that can be anticipated. If retail sales fall, the 8.625% sales tax yield will not be as great as anticipated. Similarly, if homeowners and business owners do not promptly pay their property tax, there is a shortfall. The county may borrow money in anticipation of receiving this revenue; therefore, debt service may be required because of this borrowing. 

Expenditures are for personnel, debt service, and a wide variety of services, such as police, education and economic assistance. About 39% of the $4.1 billion budget is mandated by various state and federal government programs, such as Medicaid, which restricts the freedom of the county to apportion expenditures. The remainder is “discretionary.”

Suffolk County’s proposed 2025 budget includes a tax increase for most homeowners, expected to average about $49 per home in Huntington, Smithtown and Brookhaven. The increase resulted from a shortfall in expected sales tax receipts, about $50 million less this year than what was projected, pension costs went up by about $43 million and health care costs went up by $66 million. Also Suffolk voters approved a clean water proposition in 2024; sales taxes will increase in March from 8.625% to 8.75%  (about 12 cents on a $100 purchase or $1.25 on a $1,000 purchase). 

Ed Romaine is our Suffolk County Executive ([email protected]) elected for a 4 year term. Other elected county-wide offices include Comptroller John M. Kennedy Jr.  ([email protected]), Clerk Vincent Puleo ([email protected]), District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney ([email protected]) and Sheriff Errol Toulon, Jr. (suffolk.sheriff@suffolkcounty ny.gov). 

There also is an 18 member Suffolk County Legislature, serving 2 year elected terms (term is limited to 12 years in office for all legislators). To find your SC Legislative District, go to https://www.scnylegislature.us/ and click on Find Your Representative. Then read up on your county legislator, find out what their priorities are and whether those are your priorities too. The General and committee meeting schedules are on the website, along with meeting minutes.

There are 13 committees which meet the week before each general (monthly) meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature to discuss proposed bills and issues and decide what moves forward to the full legislature. For example, the Veterans committee and Environment, Parks & Agriculture meet on Monday mornings, Economic Development, Planning and Housing on Wednesday afternoons and Public Safety on Thursday mornings. 

Since there are 10 Towns in Suffolk, and many incorporated Villages, there are other levels of representation, ordinances and codes. Concerned citizens need to navigate these levels and establish relationships with all your elected officials, so that when a question or issue arises, you are aware of which level of government has responsibility. Remember that elected officials work for YOU, and if you do not communicate clearly and responsibly your message will not receive the attention and response it deserves. 

To learn more about those who represent Suffolk County residents on every level of government and how to reach them, the League of Women Voters of Suffolk County issues an annual Directory of Public Officials in March, available online and as a pdf in English and in Spanish at https://my.lwv.org/new-york/suffolk-county.

Lisa Scott is president of the League of Women Voters of Suffolk County, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government and influences public policy through education and advocacy. For more information, visit https//my.lwv.org/new-york/suffolk-county.

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