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!

As the holiday season comes to an end, the Town of Smithtown is encouraging residents to recycle their Christmas trees and help make a difference in our community and environment. The Town of Smithtown offers a worry-free curb-side Tree Recycling option to residents during the month of January. Suffolk County also accepts Trees at Smith Point, for the purpose of protecting the dunes from erosion.

Option 1: Turn Your Tree into Free Mulch  

The Town Highway Department will collect Christmas trees placed at the curb throughout January. Once collected, the trees will be mulched at the Municipal Services Facility (MSF), providing free mulch to residents.

  • Preparation: Carefully remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel, and plastics from the tree.
  • Pickup Schedule: Place trees at the curb for collection by the Town Highway Department.
  • Free Mulch: Pre-packaged mulch (up to 10 bags per visit) is available at MSF. Residents can also opt for loose mulch, which can be loaded into trucks free of charge (cover required).
  • Contact: Call MSF at 631-269-6600 for more details.

“We’re proud to offer this service to our community as part of our commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship and it takes a burden off the Residents right at the beginning of the New Year… Simply place your Christmas tree at the curb, and our team will handle the rest. By participating in the Christmas Tree Recycling Program, you’re not only helping us create mulch for landscaping or reinforcing our coastline, but you’re also contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for everyone in our town,” said Highway Superintendent Robert Murphy, Town of Smithtown.

Option 2: Protect Our Sand Dunes

Help preserve our natural coastline by repurposing your tree for sand dune erosion protection at Smith Point County Park.

  • Preparation: Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel, and plastics from the tree.
  • Drop-Off Location: Smith Point County Park, East Booth, Shirley.
  • Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily.
  • Use: Trees will be placed along sand dunes to prevent erosion during high tides.
  • Contact: Call Smith Point County Park at 631-852-1340 for more information.

Additional Information:

Start the New Year with an eco-friendly tradition. Recycle your tree and make a positive impact today!

 

Town of Smithtown officials and employees have once again united to bring joy to local families in need this holiday season. Continuing an annual tradition, the team organized and delivered wish list items to the Smithtown Children’s Foundation to support families enduring hardship. Many Town employees participated as individuals or on behalf of their families, contributing toys, clothing, and other wish list items. The Smithtown Administrators Guild also made a generous monetary donation to support the effort while individually purchasing gifts to fulfill additional needs.

“Knowing that no child in Smithtown will wake up on Christmas morning without experiencing the magic of this season is my most prized gift this year… The team here at the Town of Smithtown are some of the finest, most kind-hearted individuals I’ve had the privilege of serving with. They consider service to the public a calling, and witnessing this great offering of compassion every year really takes my breath away. I have never been so proud to serve with so many admirable individuals. Together, we consider the people of Smithtown family, and we always take care of our family,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

The Smithtown Children’s Foundation works year-round to provide support to less fortunate children, transient families, and those coping with loss or terminal illness. The foundation collaborates confidentially with school social workers and directly with families to ensure their needs are met. Each year, the Town partners with the foundation to make anonymous donations during the holiday season and to supply school necessities for local children throughout the year.

Since its inception in 2008, the Smithtown Children’s Foundation has collaborated with schools, sports teams, businesses, and similar organizations to provide assistance and comfort to children and families facing terminal illnesses, tragic circumstances, or profound loss. This collective effort ensures that no child or family is left to face hardship alone, reinforcing the unwavering spirit of community in Smithtown.

Residents wishing to give back to a great foundation or learn more can visit: www.smithtownchildrensfoundation.com

The Town of Smithtown Disability Advisory Board hosted a sensory-friendly movie night on December 14, providing an inclusive and welcoming experience for over 100 Smithtown residents. Designed for individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families, the event featured a screening of Moana 2 in a relaxed and accommodating environment.

“The success of our sensory-friendly movie night speaks to the importance of fostering events that create opportunities for all residents to feel welcome and comfortable … This is just the beginning, and we look forward to hosting more events that bring families and the community together,” said Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo.

Attendees enjoyed the movie with lowered sound, adjusted lighting, and on-screen captions, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. Each participant enjoyed popcorn, beverage, and a sensory bag filled with tactile and fidget items to encourage sensory stimulation, focus, and relaxation.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with families expressing gratitude for the inclusive event and excitement for future programming. Attendees asked about planning a future event. The common sentiment shared by participants, reflects the success and importance of such community-centered initiatives.

The Disability Advisory Board members, who were present to welcome families and ensure a smooth event, were thrilled to see the joy and engagement of residents. The Board’s mission is to promote inclusion, accessibility, and a supportive environment for all individuals throughout the Town of Smithtown.

Disability Advisory Board Members:

  • Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo
  • Cynthia Grimley
  • Lisa Camastro
  • Alyssa Connell
  • Alex Rupp
  • Christopher Peterson
  • Chris O’Connor
  • Mary Greco

The Town of Smithtown Disability Advisory Board remains committed to creating events and programs that prioritize accessibility, awareness, and inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

For more information on upcoming events or the Disability Advisory Board, please visit the Town of Smithtown’s website or email: [email protected]

The Angel Tree. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown

The Smithtown Senior Center, 420 Middle Country Road Smithtown organized and collected over $2000.00 in gift cards to donate to The Angels of Kings Park, in time for the holiday season. The 501c3 nonprofit organization is dedicated to providing emergency financial assistance to local families and individuals who have experienced hardships. Additional Gift cards were given to the Northport VA Hospital.

Doreen Perrino, Director of the Smithtown Senior Center, and MaryAnn Jacoutot, Senior Citizens Program Supervisor, organized the fundraiser. The tree, known throughout the center as the Angel Tree, is beautifully decorated, adorning angel ornaments with written suggested dollar amounts for various gift cards participants could select from such as  Amazon, Target, Walmart, and more. Members of the Senior Center and the staff generously participated in this special initiative.

“It is our hope that the donations will allow families to create memories that will last them a lifetime. Our seniors and staff are very generous, and they simply want to help others. Instead of buying gifts for one another, we are giving the gift of caring for those in need. It gives us great joy to provide a sense of hope to others this Holiday Season,” said Perrino.

Perrino and  Jacoutot, along with Lynn and Stewart Meyers, Cathy Morgano, and Susan Montigny from Club Moriches, presented the assortment of gift cards to the Angels of Kings Park Board members, Danielle Calabria, Jacqueline Clancy, and Kathleen Lanese. The collection exceeded the amount donated last year.

The Smithtown Senior Center also donates handmade quilts, blankets, baby hats, prayer shawls, and greeting cards to many local hospitals, shelters, group homes, and nursing homes throughout the year to let those who may feel forgotten know that there is always someone who cares.

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How To Join the Smithtown Senior Center: Smithtown residents, ages 60 years and older can join (no fee is required) by filling out a brief application on-site, along with proof of residency such as a driver’s license. A membership card and welcome packet will be provided, along with a tour of the facility by a Senior Center Club Leader. The welcome packet includes a current calendar of activities, classes, and events, as well as brochures for services and amenities available exclusively for members.

The Eugene Cannataro Senior Citizens Center offers a wide array of activities, clubs and programming geared towards improving quality of life for residents, ages 60 years or older. Every day, the center offers a full schedule of arts, fitness, and wellness programming. Members can choose to join a variety of clubs, from gardening, quilting and book clubs to one of seven social clubs, featuring Casino & Theater outings, luncheons, parties, community advocacy and volunteer opportunities. In addition to a wealth of entertaining programming, the Smithtown Senior Citizens Department offers a variety of at home maintenance and repairs services.

The Senior Center is open Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (July & August Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) Lunch is served daily. Transportation is also available for members.

For questions or additional information, please call  (631) 360-7616 or for Transportation: (631) 265-8811.

 

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.

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.

The Town of Smithtown held their Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Tuesday, December 3rd at Town Hall. Master of Ceremonies, John Zollo kicked off the evening by announcing the arrival of Santa Claus, courtesy of the Smithtown Fire Department, straight from the North Pole around 5:15  p.m.

Santa Claus, with help from volunteer Elves and our Smithtown Fire Marshall, Nick Kefalos interacted with little residents, taking photos and collecting big hugs for the duration of the event. Live performances from Great Hollow Select Chorus, Hauppauge HS Kickline, RJO Intermediate Chorus, Smithtown West Varsity Whisperettes, Accompsett Middle School Select Chorus, Sara Jean Dance Company, and Smithtown West Jazz Choir, entertained the crowd throughout the night. The magic of the holiday season closed the evening out, when the Town Administration and our youngest residents flipped the switch to light tree, just as snow flurries fell from the sky.

“This event gets better every year. People couldn’t believe that it started to snow! They kept asking if we got a snow machine… It was truly magical. I’d like to thank everyone who made this event possible; especially our talented team at the Recreation Department, our Parks, Buildings and Grounds crew, who didn’t stop working through the bitter cold weather for two days, our amazing Department of Public Safety, GTV film crew and of course our Chief Fire Marshall and the Smithtown Fire Department for getting Santa here safe!” said Town of Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

“Also, a special thanks to the incredible school districts, dance companies, talented teachers, students and parents who made this event so much fun for everyone. Thank you to our Girl Scout Troops, and the Smithtown Youth Bureau volunteers for always making our events so community friendly! Finally, thanks to our vendors who participated this year, especially Smithtown Landing Caterers who donated the cookies and hot chocolate for the evening. We are so blessed and thankful to live in a town that comes together in such a wonderful way! Every year this ceremony gets bigger and better. It was the perfect kickoff to a wonderful holiday season,” added Supervisor Wehrheim.

The community based event is organized by the Department of Recreation, with support from the Parks Department and the Department of Public Safety. Volunteers included Girl Scout Troops 292, 1823, and 628 as well as a number of Local High School student volunteers who were enlisted thanks to the Smithtown Youth Bureau. The tree is decorated each year by the Department of Traffic Safety. Town Hall is transformed into a winter wonderland, quite literally, with decorations, designed and constructed by the Parks Department. Live event staging and pro audio services are provided by Taylor Productions.

Live performances that entertained a packed house included Great Hollow Select Chorus, Hauppauge HS Kickline, RJO Intermediate Chorus, Smithtown West Varsity Whisperettes, Accompsett Middle School Select Chorus, Sara Jean Dance Company, and Smithtown West Jazz Choir.  Each group performed seasonal favorites for a crowd of approximately 300 people.

Youth volunteers served Cookies and Hot Chocolate, donated courtesy of Smithtown Landing Caterers. Balloon Sculpting was provided for kids of all ages by Animations. The Big Black Food Truck and Pretzel Factory featured delicious snacks and light fare. New this year, Zag’s Photo Booth was set up for guests to pose for digital and print photos. Bins were loaded to the brim for the Smithtown Food Pantry and Toys for Tots. Residents may still drop off Toys for Tots at Town Hall now through December 13th. Residents who wish to make a donation to the Smithtown Food Pantry may do so in person at their location: 90 Edgewater Avenue in the hamlet of Smithtown.

TOYS FOR TOTS DROP SITE:

Did you know, you can donate new toys to the US Marines Toys for Tots drop off site, located inside Town Hall (at the main entrance.) The collection will be picked up by the Marine Corps on December 13th, 2024. Town Hall is open Monday through Friday from 9AM – 5PM.

UPSIDE DOWN GIFT CARD TREE:

Residents looking for a unique way to give back during the holidays may stop by the Smithtown Senior Center (420 Middle Country Rd, Smithtown) during regular business hours and pick an ornament from the upside down tree. Each ornament lists a gift card which will be donated to Angles of Kings Park to assist local families and children in need. Gift Cards must be donated by Tuesday, December 10th. The Smithtown Senior Center is open Monday through Friday: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm. For more information please call: (631) 360-7616

Upcoming Events: 

The Town of Smithtown Recreation & Senior Citizens Departments will host an independent holiday shopping experience for kids. On Saturday, December 7th, from 10AM to 1PM, children (grades K-5) can shop with a chaperone, and enjoy giving gifts to family & friends, without spoiling the surprise. Extra little shoppers may shop with parents and older siblings after 12:30PM. The Tender Years Treasury event showcases handmade gifts, all modestly priced at $5 and under. The independent kids shopping experience is held at the Eugene Cannataro Senior Citizens Center.

Menorah Lighting Ceremony: The Town of Smithtown will hold its Annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony on December 26th from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM at Town Hall. The community based event, is hosted by Supervisor Wehrheim and the Town Board, featuring Rabbi Mendel Teldon of Chabad Mid Suffolk, music, Latkes, Donuts and gelt drop. Additional details to follow.

Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
The Town of Smithtown has begun construction on the new Welcome Center at Paul T. Given Park, located across from the iconic bull monument. The transformative project, which was formerly the Oasis Gentlemen’s Club, aims to enhance Paul T. Given Park, creating a unique green space that will serve as an inviting gateway to Smithtown while promoting eco-tourism and community engagement.
“Creating a unique green space at the entryway to Smithtown has been a long-time vision of the Smithtown Administration. We acquired the property in a park swap with Suffolk County and after finally receiving the necessary approvals from the State DEC, we are thrilled to be beginning construction on the Welcome Center. This project will not only restore the historic charm of the area but also help to rebuild the local ecosystem… all while providing a serene refuge for residents and wildlife,” said Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.
The building renovations, upon completion, will feature a welcome center on the first floor, providing essential amenities for park visitors, including restrooms, bait shop, food concession, and an office for the local canoe/kayak rental business. The main floor will also feature educational nature exhibits for visitors of all ages, alongside a dedicated area to showcase local tourism. Here, organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce and other community groups can display marketing materials and informational pamphlets to highlight the rich cultural, historic and natural attractions, and special events available in the Township.
The second floor of the new facility will house a multipurpose meeting room, designed to accommodate classes, workshops, and conduct other town business. This versatile space will cater to the needs of the local community while fostering educational and civic engagement opportunities.
In addition to the Welcome Center, plans for Paul T. Given Park include a series of upgrades and eco-friendly initiatives aimed at enhancing both the visitor experience and the park’s natural environment.
Paul T. Given Park renovations to include:
  • Minor renovations and repairs to existing infrastructure.
  • Removal of invasive Japanese knotweed to support native biodiversity.
  • Installation of bioswales to mitigate stormwater runoff and protect the Nissequogue Headwaters.
  • New landscaping and street trees along Main Street (NY 25A) to beautify the area.
  • Development of new trails for hiking and wildlife education/awareness tours.
  • Improved fishing access.
  • Construction of a canoe launch, ADA-accessible pavilion with restrooms, and a raised deck/viewing platform for scenic enjoyment.
  • Creation of a picnic area, playground, and enhanced open spaces for community use.
  • Repairs to the historic steel bridge within the park.
The project has been made possible through a series of strategic decisions, including the purchase of the former Oasis Gentlemen’s Club property in May 2021. This acquisition was designed to expand Paul T. Given Park and protect environmentally sensitive areas along the Nissequogue River Headwaters. The Town Board approved a park swap with Suffolk County, authorizing special legislation to alienate Bill Richards Park in exchange for Paul T. Given Park.
Working closely with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the Town of Smithtown is committed to realizing this vision of a natural sanctuary. Upon its culmination, the new Welcome Center and enhanced Paul T. Given Park will stand as a testament to Smithtown’s dedication to environmental stewardship, community well-being, and sustainable development.

Stock photo

It’s the season of giving. The Town of Smithtown will host a blood drive by New York Blood Center at the  Eugene A. Cannataro Senior Citizen Center, 420 Middle Country Road, Smithtown on Nov. 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Every donor will receive a shirt as a gift. To make an appointment, call 1-800-688-0900 or visit www.nybc.org. Walk-ins welcome.