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Town of Smithtown

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Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown Department of Environment and Waterways, in coordination with the Municipal Services Facility, collected over 37 tons of hazardous waste during the annual Earth Day Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event on Saturday, April 26. A total of 651 households safely disposed of thousands of pounds of toxic materials that cannot be placed in regular curbside pickup—making this one of the most successful collection events to date.

“As we marked Earth Day last week, it was truly uplifting to witness our community unite in record numbers for the first of three Household Hazardous Waste Disposal events this year. Thanks to the dedication of our environmentally conscious residents—and the exceptional teamwork of the MSF staff, Public Safety Fire Marshals, DEW crew, Reworld (formerly Covanta), and our trusted contractor Radiac—we are actively protecting Smithtown’s drinking water, parks, air, and treasured waterways for future generations… These free events, held three times a year, give every resident the opportunity to make a meaningful impact—and this year, Smithtown rose to the occasion like never before,” said Town of Smithtown Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

“I want to personally recognize our outstanding department leaders, including Solid Waste Coordinator Mike Englemann, Environmental Director David Barnes, MSF Director Matt Laux, DEW Senior Analyst Rich Kitt, MSF Foreman Tommy Passariello, Environmental Technician Brooke Ferreira, and our dedicated partner at Reworld, Brian Aerne. Their commitment ensures a safe, efficient, and even enjoyable experience for all who participate… Beyond collection day, these initiatives help foster a culture of sustainability and responsibility throughout our community. Together, we’re preserving the natural beauty and quality of life that make Smithtown such an extraordinary place to live,” added Wehrheim.

This year’s event was made possible through the tremendous collaboration and support of the Town’s Department of Public Safety Fire Marshals, DEW staff, and Reworld (formerly Covanta). Their efforts supplemented the work of Radiac Environmental Services, the Town’s licensed HHW contractor, to ensure a safe, efficient, and seamless experience for all residents.

Additionally, the Town saw record participation in a targeted waste diversion initiative focused on propane tanks, lithium-ion batteries, and mercury-containing devices, demonstrating a growing community commitment to environmental safety and sustainability.

“The 2025 Earth Day Hazardous Household Waste collection event was a great success. The rain didn’t stop hundreds of residents from responsibly disposing of potentially hazardous chemicals and products. Participating in the Town’s Hazardous Household Waste collection events profoundly impacts protecting our drinking water, air, and natural resources while enabling the Town to maintain high-quality parks, recreational facilities, roads, and waterways for all residents to enjoy.  Special thanks to Supervisor Ed Wehrheim for his support and leadership on environmental initiatives such as these, MSF staff, Public Safety Fire Marshals, DEW staff, and Reworld staff (formerly Covanta) for supplementing the work of Radiac (HHW contractor) and providing safe and efficient service to all residents. We continue to encourage residents to consider using environmentally friendly alternatives for in and around the home,” said Michael P. Engelmann, P.G. Solid Waste Coordinator for the Town of Smithtown.

A portion of the wastes collected for manifested disposal include: mercury, waste oil based paints/ flammable paints, gasoline, paint thinners, waste gases, petroleum distillates, flammable solids, oxidizers liquids and solids, sodium/potassium nitrates, acids, corrosives, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, misc. toxic liquids (i.e. Chlordane, etc.) and solids, lacquers, lithium batteries, battery acids and various other toxic compounds.

Reworld (formerly Covanta) distributed over 150  $5 Home Depot gift cards to residents for recycling potentially dangerous lithium-ion and other batteries, propane tanks and mercury containing devices thereby preventing these harmful items from curbside disposal.  112 propane tanks were recovered at the event.  Record participation with these hazardous waste diversions.

Additionally, eco-friendly reusable coffee k-cups were also provided by DEW to interested residents.

The next household hazardous waste collection events are scheduled for July 12th & October 4th, 2025. Hazardous Household Waste collection events are for Smithtown Township residents only. Proof of residency will be confirmed upon entry.

DID YOU KNOW?: 

Residents can also dispose of electronic waste, free of charge, at the Town Recycling Center located at 85 Old Northport Road. Electronic waste, such as computers, printers, TV’s, monitors, automotive and household batteries, can be dropped off during regular hours for proper recycling.

FREE MULCH: Mulch is also available free of charge to residents. Smithtown residents can line up for pre-packaged bags of mulch with a maximum of 10 bags per visit. We offer free loading of loose mulch into your pick-up or dump truck. A cover is required.

The Smithtown Municipal Services Facility is located at 85 Old Northport Road in Kings Park, NY.

Regular Operating Hours: Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

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The April 22 Smithtown Board of Education meeting. Photo by William Stieglitz

By William Stieglitz

At the April 22 meeting, the board of education for Smithtown Central School District voted unanimously to adopt the proposed 2025-2026 budget. Set at $294,998,455, it would be a 1.74% increase from last year’s approximate $290 million. According to Superintendent of Schools Mark Secaur, the budget will allow the continuation of existing programs, including summer learning, while also keeping class sizes within district policy parameters.

The proposed property tax levy is set at $225,253,356, a 2.66% increase from last year’s levy of approximately $219 million. This is the maximum allowable levy for the budget to require a simple majority to pass, as opposed to the over 60% that would be required were the cap exceeded. The tax limit is calculated primarily based on the rate of inflation but also includes factors such as the tax base growth for the area, the Payment in Lieu of Taxes receivable and the capital levy exclusion.

The budget’s other revenues are primarily from state aid and the school district’s reserves. Since the New York State budget has not yet been passed, missing the April 1 deadline for the fourth year in a row, it is unknown how much state aid the district will receive. The board, instead, based its calculations on Governor Kathy Hochul’s (D) executive state budget as proposed in January, predicting about $51 million in aid. Should the state budget exceed what was expected, the board’s plan will be not to change the expenditure budget, but rather to reduce the dependence on around $7.5 million dollars in reserves. 

These reserves include $3.65 million from the Employees’ Retirement System, $2.725 million from the Teacher’s Retirement System, $770,000 from Employee Benefit Accrued Liability and $400,000 from Workers’ Compensation Insurance. The use of this last reserve is a significant change from last years’ budget, which did not pull from it at all. The smallest reserve change, by contrast, is for EBAL, which sees the same amount used from it as last year. Employee benefits see decreases in Social Security and Medicaid but also increases in health insurance, with an overall $4.13 million rise in benefits.

There will be a budget hearing May 13 for community members to learn more about the budget. Then the vote for both the budget and board members will be May 20, with polls open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and locations including Nesconset Elementary, Accompsett Elementary and Smithtown Elementary schools. Smithtown residents must be registered with the Suffolk County Board of Election by May 13 in order to vote. 

If the proposed budget doesn’t pass, the board may resubmit either the same budget or a revised version for a second vote. If this fails too, the board would have to adopt a budget with no increase to the tax levy, resulting in an approximate revenue loss of $5.85 million. In this situation, the district would have to either include more reductions or withdraw more from its reserves.

For more information visit the school website: www.Smithtown.k12.ny.us.

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Pictured at the Legislature to recognize the Champions of Diversity from the 13th Legislative District are some of the members of the Smithtown Unity Council Michael Chlystun, Jay Fried, chair Maria LaMalfa (with the proclamation), Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta and Brian De Sorbe. Photo courtesy of Leg. Trotta's office

Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta recognized the Smithtown Unity Council as the 2025 13th Legislative District’s Champion of Diversity at a ceremony during the Suffolk County Legislature’s General Meeting in Riverhead on April 8.

In 2022, the Legislature passed a resolution that each Legislator shall designate a Diversity Champion for their district to be recognized in the month of April every year. The honoree is one who demonstrates an openness in thinking and respects diverse racial, cultural and ethnic differences.

The Town of Smithtown initially formed the Smithtown Anti-Bias Task Force in 1994 and then in 2023, the Board renamed it the Smithtown Unity Council. However, the mandate remains the same – to identify and respond to bias through education and cultural initiatives, promoting both the diversity and unity of the people of Smithtown.

The Suffolk County Police Department Hate Crimes Unit provides the members with statistics to guide them in planning educational programs needed to remediate and to support the communities targeted by hate attacks.

Members of the Council attend monthly meetings of the Suffolk County Interfaith Anti- Bias Task Force to share information and programming ideas with other Town organizations. In conjunction with such organizations as the Suffolk County Community College Center for Social Justice and Human Understanding, 3GNY (an educational organization founded by the grandchildren of Holocaust survivors to preserve the legacies and lessons of the Holocaust), and the AME denomination (African Methodist Episcopal Church), the Unity Council offers opportunities for residents to learn and enhance their understanding through programs focused on the Holocaust and local African American history.

In conjunction with various organizations and businesses, the Unity Council hosts events throughout the year to bring people together to learn about and understand each other’s cultures on such special occasions as Iftar during Ramadan, Chinese Lunar New Year Celebration and an annual Pride Family Picnic.

“I applaud the work and contributions that the Smithtown Unity Council does for the residents and businesses of Smithtown. I commend each member for their contributions and personal involvement said,” said Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta.

Maria LaMalfa, chair of the Smithtown Unity Council, expressed their heartfelt thanks to Legislator Trotta and the County Legislature for recognizing and celebrating our ongoing commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. “Thank you, Legislator Trotta, for standing with us in building a stronger, more inclusive community for all,” she added.

 

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Save the date! The Town of Smithtown Department of Environment and Waterways, in partnership with the Municipal Services Facility and the Department of Public Safety, will host a Household Hazardous Waste Collection event on Saturday, April 26. This free event will be held at the Smithtown Municipal Services Facility, located at 85 Old Northport Road in Kings Park, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The household hazardous waste collection event is for Smithtown Township residents only. Proof of residency will be confirmed upon entry.

 During the April 26th free household hazardous waste collection event, Smithtown residents who drop off accepted recyclable batteries, under the Recycling Program, propane tanks (small 1lb tanks and 20lbs BBQ size tanks) or mercury/mercury containing devices will receive a $5 Home Depot gift card courtesy of Reworld (formerly known as Covanta). The gift cards are provided as a thank you to residents for recycling and reducing the potential safety and environmental impacts of improper disposal of these items in the regular trash. View the Household Battery Disposal Guide online at: https://www.smithtownny.gov/281/Household-Battery-Disposal-Guide  Terms: Limit one gift card per household regardless of the number of items dropped off. Gift cards will not be provided for alkaline batteries. Available while supplies last.

Common hazardous waste collected for manifested disposal include: oil based paints/ flammable paints, gasoline, paint thinners, waste gases, petroleum distillates, flammable solids, oxidizers liquids and solids, sodium/potassium nitrates, acids, corrosives, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, misc. toxic liquids (i.e. Chlordane, etc.) and solids, lacquers, lithium batteries, battery acids and various other toxic compounds.

DID YOU KNOW… 

Residents can also dispose of Electronic waste, free of charge, at the Town Recycling Center (also located at 85 Old Northport Road). Electronic Waste such as computers, printers, TV’s, monitors, automotive and household batteries can be dropped off during regular hours for proper recycling.

FREE MULCH: Mulch is also available FREE OF CHARGE to residents. Smithtown residents can line up for Pre-packaged bags of mulch with a maximum of ten (10) bags per visit. We offer free loading of loose mulch into your pick-up or dump truck. (Cover required)

The Smithtown Municipal Services Facility is located at 85 Old Northport Road in Kings Park. Regular operating hours are Tuesday through Saturday From 7 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. For more information, call 631-269-6600.

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Smithtown Town Hall. File photo

By Peter Sloniewsky

An application for a controversial Kings Park waste management rail project was withdrawn by CarlsonCorp, a local developer, at the end of March. 

Townline Rail Terminal LLC, an affiliate of CarlsonCorp, proposed a new commercial rail terminal in Kings Park to the federal Surface Transportation Board in January. Elected officials that supported the project, including Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim  (R) and Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta (R, Fort Salonga) cite a desire to take trucks off of the roads as a main purpose for the project. 

In a previous interview with TBR News Media, CarlsonCorp head Toby Carlson also cited the closure of the Town of Brookhaven Landfill as an important reason to build the rail yard. At a public meeting in January, proponents of the plan, including Carlson, claimed that a more efficient system of waste management is necessary and that replacing garbage trucks with freight trains would reduce road congestion and environmental impact. 

To pass, the proposal would have required amendments to local zoning and waste management laws alongside a town environmental review. The proposed construction would have extended approximately 5,000 feet off the Long Island Rail Road Port Jefferson Branch line, and would have been used to dispose of incinerated ash and construction debris with diesel freight trains. 

However, the proposal was met with firm community discontent. In particular, residents of Smithtown and surrounding areas revived the Townline Association, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization devoted to fighting the project. 

In a Change.org petition with more than 3,200 signatures, the Townline cited health risks, noise concerns, potential water pollution, a negative impact on home values and a lack of public notice for their opposition. The project was also opposed by the Commack Community Association and the Fort Salonga Association. 

While this project may have been canceled, the landfill’s closure still presents a major issue for waste management across Long Island. Nicole Garguilo, a public information officer for the Town of Smithtown, clarified that the town is still looking for solutions. 

“But while this specific proposal is no longer moving forward, the underlying issue — the urgent need for sustainable waste management solutions — has not gone away,” Garguilo wrote to TBR News Media. 

Garguilo also emphasized that the Town of Smithtown is looking for a larger-scale process in the future. 

“The rail line project was set aside by the applicant until a broader, regional plan involving both Suffolk County and New York State could be established to address the growing solid waste crisis,” Garguilo told TBR. “Addressing the waste crisis will require thoughtful

planning, strategic research and coordinated action at the highest levels of government. Meaningful solutions must be rooted in comprehensive federal, state and county legislation, with sustained support and funding at the core of any long-term strategy,” She added. 

That being said, she also affirmed that the Town of Smithtown would be more open to public comment in the future on such matters. 

“This experience has reaffirmed a vital lesson: that early, transparent and consistent public engagement is essential, even when the Town’s role is limited by federal or state jurisdiction, or by constitutional and zoning laws. Residents deserve to have their voices heard and their concerns acknowledged — especially on issues as impactful as infrastructure and waste management,” Garguilo wrote. “As we move forward, we are committed to full transparency. The public will be kept informed in real time, and every proposal will be subject to rigorous review and community input. We know there are no easy answers — but we also know that inaction is not an option.”

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Kellie Wehrheim of Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve. Photo from Town of Smithtown
A bat house. Photo from Town of Smithtown
An owl house. Photo from Town of Smithtown
A bird house. Photo from Town of Smithtown

Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve in Commack has launched an inspiring new project to support local wildlife and ecosystem health throughout the Town of Smithtown’s parks and beaches.

With a deep commitment to conservation and environmental education, the preserve has introduced 26 handcrafted wooden homes for bluebirds, wrens, bats, and Eastern screech owls, all designed and built by Hoyt Farm Groundskeeper, Kellie Wehrheim.

“Kellie has always had a deep love for birds and wildlife, and her fearless nature when it comes to caring for and protecting them is truly inspiring. From a young age, she’s never hesitated to lend a hand to an animal in need, and today, that same tenacity and work ethic shines through in her work at Hoyt Farm. Her commitment to conservation and stewardship—especially in creating safe habitats for native birds and bats that play a crucial role in our ecosystem—makes me incredibly proud. Smithtown is lucky to have her making such a meaningful impact, and as her dad, I couldn’t be prouder.,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

The initiative aims to provide safe nesting habitats while also encouraging public engagement with nature. The newly constructed homes include six bluebird boxes, six wren boxes, six screech owl boxes, and eight bat houses. These boxes will be installed at optimal locations and heights within Smithtown’s parks and beaches, ensuring they benefit local wildlife populations.

“This project is not only about providing a safe habitat for our native wildlife but also about promoting education and environmental awareness… Each box will be clearly labeled to identify which species it was designed for. We hope this initiative inspires the residents of Smithtown to get outdoors, explore nature, and share in our mission to protect the wildlife that lives among us,” added Hoyt Farm Preserve Manager Jeff Gurmin and Park Interpretive Specialist Sheryl Brook.

The Importance of Supporting Native Wildlife

Providing safe, dedicated spaces for these species has a lasting environmental impact:

  • Birdhouses help birds thrive by offering protection and nesting opportunities. In return, birds contribute to weed and insect control, pollination, soil fertilization, seed dispersal, and biodiversity.
  • Bat houses provide critical roosting and breeding sites, helping declining bat populations while offering natural mosquito and pest control, reducing the need for pesticides.
  • Screech owl boxes provide safe nesting spots for these nocturnal predators, supporting natural rodent and insect control and encouraging local biodiversity.

Beyond their ecological benefits, these bird and bat houses serve as an educational tool—offering a unique opportunity for residents, students, and nature enthusiasts to observe and learn about native wildlife up close.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to keep an eye out for these beautifully crafted homes at Smithtown parks and beaches. Whether taking a stroll at Hoyt Farm, Paul T. Given Park, or the Nissequogue River Headwaters, nature lovers will soon spot these new additions, offering shelter to local birds, bats, and owls.

This initiative reflects the Town of Smithtown’s continued dedication to environmental stewardship, ensuring that our wildlife, parks, and natural habitats thrive for generations to come.

Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve is located at 200 New Highway, Commack.

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Kings Park Central School District's Superintendent’s Council visited Smithtown Town Hall on April 2. Photo from Town of Smithtown

On April 2nd, student leaders from RJO Intermediate School, in the Kings Park Central School District’s Superintendent’s Council visited Smithtown Town Hall for a unique, behind-the-scenes look at how local government serves the community.

Accompanied by Superintendent Dr. Timothy Eagan and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Ralph Cartisano, the students were welcomed by Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim and representatives from several Town departments for a special presentation on the inner workings of municipal government.

The Superintendent’s Council is composed of student leaders in grades 4 through 12 from R.J.O. Intermediate School, William T. Rogers Middle School, and Kings Park High School. Throughout the school year, the council meets monthly to explore leadership, service, and civic engagement. This year, the students focused on gaining a deeper understanding of local government functions and community service.

Kings Park Central School District’s Superintendent’s Council visited Smithtown Town Hall on April 2. Photo from Town of Smithtown

“It was an absolute pleasure to welcome such a fantastic group of students from Kings Park to Town Hall. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and thoughtful questions truly impressed all of us. This is a remarkable group of young leaders, and it was inspiring to see their genuine interest in how local government works and serves the community. I want to sincerely thank Superintendent Dr. Timothy Eagan and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Ralph Cartisano for encouraging these future leaders to engage in public service and civic education. We’re proud to support programs like this that help shape tomorrow’s community leaders,” said Supervisor Wehrheim.

The students participated in presentations from five Town of Smithtown departments, each offering a detailed look at the services they provide and their impact on the community. Presenters included: Simone Freeman, Assistant Town Attorney; David Barnes, Director, Department of Environment and Waterways (DEW);  Peter Hans, Director, Planning and Engineering; Liam Trotta, Environmental Planner; Bill White, Director, Building Department; Leigh Wixson, Director, Smithtown Animal Shelter; and Denise Vibal, Animal Control Officer.

Each speaker offered valuable insight into their department’s role and responsibilities, shared advice for students interested in public service careers, and discussed academic pathways, internships, and volunteer opportunities within the Town.

Kings Park Central School District’s Superintendent’s Council visited Smithtown Town Hall on April 2. Photo from Town of Smithtown

“Our instructional theme this year in Kings Park is, ‘Learning and Preparing for My Future.’ I was both delighted and thankful that our student-leaders had the opportunity to learn about the functions of various town departments and future employment and/or volunteer opportunities. It is my hope that Kings Park’s best and brightest youth remain informed and committed to our town’s future. A special thank you to Supervisor Wehrheim and his staff for making this special event happen!” said Dr. Tim Eagan, Superintendent, Kings Park Central School District

Students who participated are members of the Superintendent’s Council, a group of student leaders in grades 4-12 who meet monthly over the school year. Every fall, two students are nominated to join the council by their peers in 4th grade, and they continue their participation through graduation. The students provide essential insight and a perspective on a wide range of topics. This year, the group focused on learning about local government, specifically the various town departments and their functions. In preparation for their visit to Town Hall, the students performed some internet research on specific departments and then shared what they found with the rest of the group.

The Town of Smithtown looks forward to continuing its partnership with the Kings Park Central School District and encourages students to remain active participants in their community’s future.

 

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Ash and Ember
Ember
Ash
Ember
Ash

MEET ASH AND EMBER!

This week’s featured shelter pets are Ash and Ember, a stunning brother-sister duo up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.

Both estimated to be approximately seven years old. Ash (male) and Ember (female) both boast beautiful brown tabby coats with adorably unique flecks of white patching. They found their way to the shelter after years of living in a home crowded with many other cats. Nothing would make these inseparable siblings happier than to bring warmth and sparkle to one lucky family’s heart and home.

Ash and Ember’s sweet and loving nature shines through to everyone lucky enough to meet them! While they may be a little shy at first, a gentle touch and a little patience are all it takes to earn their trust—and once you do, you’ll have two lifelong cuddle buddies. Not only are they absolutely stunning, but they’re also incredibly sweet, playful, and full of charm. Get ready for double the purrs, lap naps, and snuggles with this adorable duo! These two will keep you entertained for hours with their playful antics, filling your home with laughter, love, and endless joy. Ash and Ember are guaranteed to brighten your world!

Ash and Ember would thrive in most homes, including a family with other cats, older children and possibly dogs. They are a brother and sister who have never been separated and would do best if adopted together.

If you are interested in meeting Ash and Ember, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with them in the shelter’s Meet and Greet room.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.

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The exterior of the Calderone Theater. Photo by Aiden Steng

By Aiden Steng

With changing times comes changing communities, but the Town of Smithtown has invested in restoring and revitalizing its cultured past. However, these initiatives have not seen unanimous praise from outside the town’s government. 

In December 2024, the Smithtown town board voted unanimously to authorize Town Supervisor Republican Ed Wehrheim to purchase St. James’ Calderone Theater for $900,000. The vote additionally gave Wehrheim the authority to grant a 10-year lease to Celebrate St. James, a local non-profit arts group to renovate the theater. 

The interior of the Calderone Theater. Photo by Aiden Steng

Since the sale from Celebrate St. James’ founder and advisor Natalie Weinstein, her organization has been tasked with renovating the theater that is now called the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center. 

“Their intention is to do some major renovations on the theater, and that will be paid for by them,” Wehrheim said. “The lease agreement is completed and signed by the board of directors of Celebrate [St. James], so we think it’s going to be a really nice addition to the business district.”

Wehrheim is a former United States Navy veteran who served in Vietnam and has been Smithtown’s town supervisor since 2018. He has overseen recent projects aimed at revitalizing the community’s local business districts. 

Such initiatives expected to be pushed for in 2025 by the board include the implementation of LED street lighting in the area, improvements to local parks and roads, the building of a playground and pickle ball court at Callahan’s Beach and an implementation of lofts at the former site of Nassau Suffolk Lumber & Supply Company. 

While projects such as the creation of Celebrate Park on the former site of an abandoned bar and the introduction of the new sewer line in St. James have yielded an overhaul in Smithtown’s local community, some are unhappy with the town board’s execution of these plans. 

Local Democrat Nick Cipollo, a member of Smithtown Democrats and trained historian, has notably voiced his concerns with the recent execution of the sewer line project.

Save the St. James Historic Calderone Theater sign.
Photo by Aiden Steng

“The sewer line that was installed on Lake Avenue in Saint James was installed four years ago and is still not hooked up to a treatment plant,” he said. “The people of Smithtown are paying for this through a bond when this could have been done through grants from the government.”

However, Wehrheim said “that was a $3.9 million project [that] was originally going to be a grant from New York State. Unfortunately, that project began right at the onset of COVID, and the state of New York, like many other government entities, went home.”

Cipollo also said that while he believed the Calderone Theater should be preserved, the process in which the deal was brokered was poor.

“I believe that the Town of Smithtown could have done better,” he said. “The first step was the last step, which was to spend $900,000 to purchase the theater … the Town of Smithtown also could have sought out grants from the county, state, or federal government to save this historical building.”

Cipollo also noted that the town board gave themselves “exorbitant” pay rises in 2022, one of which was a raise of 22 percent for Wehrheim. Cipollo said he would have given the town board pay rises in line with the 3% enjoyed by town employees during that time. 

Wehrheim did not agree with this analysis. 

“Those salaries for elected officials were stagnant for a number of years. I think three or four years, maybe,” he said. “I think those increases were put into the budget, and there were public hearings on the budget. So, that is the most transparent way to do that.”

Aidan Steng is a reporter with The SBU Media Group, part of Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism’s Working Newsroom program for students and local media.

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Image from Town of Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown Building Department has officially launched an online system to make life easier for residents and their contractors. This major step forward in modernizing online services will allow for homeowners to now apply for building permits online for a variety of home repairs and improvements, making the process faster, more efficient, and more convenient than ever before.

“This marks the beginning of our next major step in digitizing town services, making it easier for residents to access permits, registrations, and records without disrupting their busy schedules. Home renovations and essential improvements can be stressful, and our goal with this new online permit system—available to both homeowners and contractors—is to simplify the process and save valuable time. We’re excited to continue expanding our digital services in the coming weeks, bringing even more convenience to our community,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

This new digital application system allows residents to easily submit permit requests, track their status, schedule inspections, and manage their permits—all from the comfort of home.

“Smithtown’s new online permitting system is a game-changer for homeowners and contractors—cutting red tape, saving time, and making home improvements easier. This is just the beginning of our push to digitize town services, giving residents quick, hassle-free access to permits and records. We’re excited to keep expanding digital services and bringing even more convenience to our community!” said Councilman Tom McCarthy, Liaison to the Building Department.

“This new online permitting system gives a cutting edge advantage to Smithtown homeowners and contractors. We’re committed to streamlining processes, reducing red tape, and making home improvements easier and more accessible for our residents,” added William White, Buildings Department Director.

Residential Projects Now Available for Online Permit Applications:

  • Accessory Structures (Carport, Detached Garage, Gazebo, Outdoor Kitchen, Sport Court)
  • Air Conditioning/Heating Unit/HVAC
  • Decks & Porches
  • Demolitions
  • Electric Only
  • Fences
  • Fireplaces/Stoves
  • Garage Conversions
  • Gas Conversions
  • Gas Pressure Test Only
  • Generators
  • Outside Basement Entrances
  • Plumbing Only
  • Sheds (over 144 sq.ft. and 12’ tall or any size shed that requires zoning relief)
  • Solar Panels
  • Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs (Above Ground, Concrete, Inground)
  • Tank Installations/Removals
How to Apply Online:

Residents and contractors can begin the application process by visiting https://citysquared.com/#/app/SmithtownTownNY/landing  or Click to Register

First-time users will be prompted to register for an account. It is recommended to use the formal name and contact information on file with the Township to ensure a smooth process.

Once a permit has been issued, users can:

  • Track application status
  • View property details, certificates, and GIS information
  • Schedule inspections
  • Pay permit fees online
  • Access all necessary documents with one click

Individuals may still visit the Town of Smithtown Building Department for their permitting needs. The new online system is merely an addition to help save time, energy and streamline efforts to fast-track the paperwork necessary to file for the building permits, required by law. For assistance with the online application process, residents and contractors can contact: Theresa Mahon at [email protected]

For more information, call 631-257-6080

Stay tuned for future updates as the Town of Smithtown continues working toward bringing all residential and commercial applications online.

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