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Town of Smithtown

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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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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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A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown

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.

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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.

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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.

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From left, Maryann Jacoutot (Senior Center Staff) Town Clerk Thomas McCarthy, Supervisor Edward Wehrheim, Thomas Gugliotta, Tax Receiver Deanna Varricchio, and Senior Citizens Dept. Director Doreen Perrino. Photo from Town of Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown has announced that historic property records and tax documents donated by Thomas Gugliotta are now on display at Town Hall. Gugliotta, a proud first-generation resident of Smithtown donated the records in hopes of sharing his parents great American Dream story. The display, located at Town Hall outside the Tax Receiver’s office, serves as a tribute to the values of hard work, resilience, and community spirit that define so many Smithtown families.

Thomas Gugliotta’s parents, Biase and Philomena, immigrated from Italy in 1956, arriving in the San Remo neighborhood with their infant daughter. Thomas was born in San Remo and grew up in the same home he resides in today, where he continues to cherish his parents’ legacy.

“I got very nostalgic talking with Thomas. We shared memories about our families, how they migrated here to Smithtown and how generations before us made a great life, which are now etched in our history. The Gugliotta family represents what Smithtown is all about: resilience, hard work, and pride in one’s roots. These historical documents not only honor their personal history but also serve as an inspiration to our community about the power of perseverance in the pursuit of the American Dream.” – Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim, Town of Smithtown

Thomas’s father, an Italian Allied Forces WWII veteran, experienced unimaginable hardship during the war. Shortly after Italy joined the Allied forces in 1943, Biase Gugliotta was captured and held in a nazi labor camp until it was liberated by American forces in 1945. In 1956, his family settled in San Remo, where Biase worked as a custodian at Kings Park High School until his retirement in 1986. Thomas shared his fathers proud journey with Town Officials, of achieving U.S. citizenship, thanks to the assistance of Smithtown’s first Police Chief, Cy Donnelly in 1969.

“My father would walk to Town Hall to pay his taxes, proud of everything he had accomplished… It’s an honor to have these records displayed here in a way that might inspire others to reflect on the American story—one rooted in family, history, and proud heritage.” – Thomas Gugliotta, San Remo First Generation Resident

Thomas Gugliotta recalled that his father would actually walk to Town Hall to pay his property taxes, all the way from San Remo, making it a point to share how deeply proud his father was to do so.

Did You Know? Originally named after a small Italian Riviera village, San Remo has a unique historical significance and has served as a home to many families who have shared similar dreams of building a new life.

This exhibit was made possible thanks to the collaboration with the Smithtown Senior Center team and Town Administration. The Town is deeply grateful to Thomas Gugliotta for sharing his family’s history and hopes this exhibit will spark meaningful discussions about family legacies, community history, and the value of the American Dream.

Thomas’s heartfelt story about his family is also available to watch on Smithtown GTV’s YouTube channel. It captures the personal stories behind the historical documents, offering a unique perspective on the history of San Remo and the people who have built their lives here. The Town Hall display is a testament to the enduring strength and pride of immigrant families who continue to enrich the fabric of Smithtown.

To watch Thomas Gugliotta’s interview and the San Remo Historic Spotlight on Smithtown GTV, visit: Watch on YouTube.

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From left, NYS Senator Mario Mattera, Supervisor Ed Wehrheim, Louis Necroto, Katie Necrotom, Susan Necroto, Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick. Photo from Town of Smithtown
From left, Councilman Tom Lohmann, NYS Senator Mario Mattera, Katie Necroto, Supervisor Ed Wehrheim, Dr. Kevin Simmons, Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick, Matt Gribbin (Smithtown Central School District School Board). Photo from Town Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown hosted its first annual Epilepsy Awareness Ceremony, declaring November as Epilepsy Awareness Month throughout the township. The ceremony was held on November 7 at Town Hall, honoring the bravery of community members living with epilepsy and their journey to end the stigma surrounding it.

Katie Necroto, a 14-year-old Nesconset Resident shared her very personal and inspiring story, in front of a captive audience of family, friends, and local community members. Ms. Necroto was presented with a Proclamation from the Town of Smithtown by Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim, recognizing her journey and declaring November Epilepsy Awareness Month.

“Smithtown has been at the forefront of celebrating community members and observing Health Awareness Months. Each year, we expand our partnerships, deepen our understanding, and are inspired by incredible individuals in our community. This November, we are thrilled to add Epilepsy Awareness Month to our roster. All month long, we aim to inform families about available resources, educate the public on epilepsy, and break down the stigma here in Smithtown. We will also be distributing awareness bracelets to anyone who pledges to support this mission right here at Town Hall,” said Supervisor Wehrheim in a press release.

Katie Necroto spoke to the community at large, sharing her first memory and journey to the present day with hopes of educating and inspiring others to not be ashamed or afraid of an epilepsy diagnosis. NY State Senator Mario Mattera, alongside Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick presented Katie with a framed, State Certificate of Recognition for her courage in raising awareness. Smithtown Central School Districts Assistant Superintendent for Instruction & Administration Cabinet, Dr. Kevin Simmons shared remarks on behalf of Superintendent Dr. Mark Secaur, who shares a personal bond, in connection to those impacted by epilepsy.

“I realized I was on the path I was meant to be on, inspired by angels who have loved, supported, and guided me. Thank you to my family, friends, school nurses, doctors, and everyone who helped me through the hardest times. I’m especially grateful to Supervisor Wehrheim and the Town for listening to my story and encouraging me to share it. If I had one wish today, it would be that my story helps someone else find hope and strength. That the telling of this story might encourage any one of you experiencing difficult times to know there are angels all around you, ready to help you on your journey and shine their light through the darkness,” said Katie, who is an Epilepsy Awareness Advocate and 9th-grade student at Smithtown High School East.

The ceremony concluded with a purple ribbon cutting in front of the sign at Town Hall, which has been landscaped with Fall purple annuals and Epilepsy Awareness garden flags. All Month long the Town of Smithtown will seek to inform families about available resources, work to educate the public on the various types of Epilepsy and pledge to end the stigma. St. Catherine of Siena Hospital has delivered informational pamphlets, available at the entrance of Town Hall for anyone wishing to learn more about treatments and resources locally available. Additionally, the Town has made silicone Awareness Bracelets available at the main entrance of Town Hall for anyone who would like to take the pledge to be informed, compassionate and help spread a positive message with the community.

“Smithtown is proud to be at the forefront of honoring Health Awareness Months, expanding community partnerships, and celebrating remarkable individuals. All November long, Smithtown will educate the public on Epilepsy, promote available resources, and work collectively to end the stigma around the condition,” read the release.

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Nick LaLota celebrates his victory on Nov. 5. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo

By Toni-Elena Gallo and Aidan Johnson

At Stereo Garden in Patchogue, the GOP was a sea of red on the evening of Tuesday, Nov. 5. Guests mingled with drinks in hand, as music blared over the club’s speaker system.

The event was hosted by Jesse Garcia, chairman of the Suffolk County Republican Committee and Brookhaven Town Republican Committee, whose high energy propelled the evening and invigorated the large crowd. He spoke of the resilience of the Republican Party through the tumultuous past four years, and expressed confidence in Suffolk’s support for members of the GOP.

LaLota victorious over Avlon in battle for Congress, Avlon concedes

As results poured in from around 10 p.m. to the early hours of the morning, the race considered highly important in the flipping of the House majority in Washington, was decided. Incumbent Nick LaLota, representative of the 1st Congressional District, won 55.7% of the vote to Democratic opponent John Avlon’s 44.3%.

“Thank you so much to every single one of you. I’m only here because of everything you’ve done. You made the phone calls. You knocked on doors, you planted lawn signs,” LaLota said to the room.

“You’ve placed your trust in me and I’m going to take another term of office in a few weeks so I can continue to fight for you,” he continued. He added that he has run on his record, which is one committed to bipartisanship, and has seen more bills passed by him than “95% of Congress,” bringing “$150 million home” to Suffolk in the process.

“It’s a hard night in Suffolk County for us Democrats, it’s a hard night for many Democrats, but the fight continues,” Avlon said in a speech at the IBEW Local 1049 Union Hall in Holtsville, where many of the Suffolk County Democrats congregated for a watch party. 

“It’s really important for us to keep the energy up, and understand that this is not a time for us to shirk back, but it is a time for folks to stand up continuously, because the good fight never ends and democracy depends on loving your country no matter who is president,” he added.

Anthony Palumbo celebrates his victory on Nov. 5. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo

Palumbo comes out on top in state Senate race

Incumbent Republican state senator of the 1st District, Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk), beat Democratic opponent Sarah Anker, with 53.4% of the vote, to Anker’s 46.6%.

“This is a team win. I want to thank my wife, to thank my friends in law enforcement who supported us. We did this most importantly because of you folks. This is many, many months in the making,” Palumbo said. He continued by saying that he and his supporters worked hard on his campaign because “it is about what’s best for our constituency.”

Anker has not yet released a statement.

Mattera wins out over Herskowitz in NY 2nd Senate District

Incumbent Mario Mattera beat Craig Herskowitz, winning his third term in the 2nd Senate District, 58.7% to 41.3%.

Mattera was not on hand to make a speech, as he was in Smithtown speaking at another event. Chairman Garcia expressed his congratulatory feelings for Mattera, leading the crowd in a round of applause for him.

Kassay and Flood in tight contest for 4th District Assembly seat; Giglio defeats Chiaramonte in 2nd District 

As of 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 6, no result has been confirmed for the state Assembly race between Republican incumbent Ed Flood and his Democratic opponent Rebecca Kassay, both from Port Jefferson. Kassay currently is leading Flood by 211 votes (29,246-29,035). The final result has not yet been announced as of press time.

Jodi Giglio (R-Riverhead) easily beat out Tricia Chiaramonte with 64.9% of the vote, to Chiaramonte’s 35.1%. Chiaramonte did not actively campaign against incumbent Giglio.

Fitzpatrick victorious over Basileo in NY 8th Assembly District

Incumbent of 22 years, Michael Fitzpatrick (R-Smithtown), beat Democratic candidate Steven Basileo by a sweeping 66.4% to 33.6%, in the 8th Assembly District.

Fitzpatrick was just one of many Republicans who has been reelected to his seat, as newer Democratic politicians did not attract the same amount of support across the North Shore. Voters seemingly preferred the current occupants.

10th and 12th Assembly Districts

In the 10th Assembly District, Democratic incumbent Steve Stern (D-Dix Hills) beat Republican Aamir Sultan, 55% to 45%. In the 12th District, incumbent Keith Brown (R-Northport) defeated Democrat Thomas Cox, 57.5% to 42.5%. 

4th District Court Judge, Town of Smithtown

Republicans Paul Damato and John Zollo beat Democratic candidate Maria Scheuring, receiving a combined 79.2% of the vote — 39.6% each — winning the two vacant seats, while Scheuring received 20.7% of the vote. Scheuring was not active during this election season.

All these results are noted by the Suffolk County Board of Elections as “unofficial.”

6th District Court Judge, Town of Brookhaven

Evan Tannenbaum, Patricia Blake and Kenneth Lauri won the three available seats for District Court Judge of the 6th District. They received 23.4%, 23.2%, and 22.0% of the vote, respectively, beating out Democrats Margot Garant and Dorothy Cavalier.

“I want to thank the Town of Brookhaven and my fellow Republicans,” Lauri said. Tannenbaum echoed similar sentiments.

All these results are noted by the Suffolk County Board of Elections as “unofficial.”

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Smithtown Town Hall

The Town of Smithtown has been awarded $21.3 million in funding from the State of New York, which will be distributed to Suffolk County for the downtown (Smithtown) Sewer District expansion project.

This funding was announced on November 1 as part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2024 Local Water Infrastructure Improvements initiative. This latest award announcement, raises Smithtown’s total grant funding to over $40 million in the last six years and over $80 million since the Administration took office in 2017.

“We are deeply grateful to Governor Hochul, our dedicated partners in Suffolk County and the State of New York for making this essential project possible. With their support, Smithtown is at the halfway mark to make necessary improvements that will not only modernize our infrastructure but also enhance the future of our business districts, environment, and community,” said Supervisor Ed Wehrheim in a press release.

The $21.3 million in funding will be directed to Suffolk County for the Smithtown Business District Sewer Extension Project, marking a pivotal step in the town’s mission to support healthier infrastructure, protect environmental resources, and boost local economic growth. This grant reflects ongoing collaboration between Smithtown, Suffolk County, and New York State.

Over $40 million in Smithtown tax dollars directed back home to Smithtown in six years includes:

  • $1.38 million for stormwater flood mitigation infrastructure for Smithtown and Kings Park awarded by Congressman Nick LaLota through the Interior and Environment Appropriations bill.
  • $10 Million Dollar Downtown Revitalization Initiative, for the business district of Kings Park
  • $13 million in American Rescue Plan aid funds from Suffolk County for the Town of Smithtown.
  • $10 million towards the Smithtown’s Business District Sewer Construction
  • $3 Million towards connecting the St. James Business District to Sewer Treatment District #28 at Fairfield.
  • $5.4 million in funding from Suffolk County for the Kings Park streetscape work and competition of the Sewer District 6 expansion
  • $2.5 Million in funds from the Suffolk County JumpStart grant for traffic calming and streetscape improvements in Kings Park
  • $1,280,951.44 for the Long Beach Road Elevation from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and was awarded through the New York State Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services’ Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
  • $1Million USDA Urban and Community Forestry Grant program for tree planting and maintenance
  • $1.1 Million Edgewood Avenue Corridor Grant secured through Congressman Lee Zeldin through the community development fund.
  • $900,000 in Suffolk County JumpStart funds for the acquisition and restoration of the century-old Calderone Theatre, which is currently in disrepair.
  • $500,000 in Suffolk County Jumpstart Funds to Build Kings Park Municipal Parking Lot on Pulaski Road
  • $200,000 for the Emergency Operations Center from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and was awarded through the New York State Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services

Funding brought back to Smithtown since 2017 also includes:

  • $40 Million Dollars from the State of New York, under the State’s Transformative Investment Program (TIP), for Suffolk County to connect Kings Park Business District to Suffolk County Sewer District No. 6 and to go towards the sewer expansion project for the Downtown of the Smithtown Hamlet.
  • $799,982 for the Local Government Efficiency grant program – Town of Smithtown Highway Services Consolidation
  • $97,375 in Regional Economic Development Council grant funding for the Stormwater Management Feasibility Study for Cordwood Path ($72,375) & St James Visioning Study ($25,000)

“Since Supervisor Wehrheim’s appointment in 2017, Smithtown has dedicated significant resources to securing competitive state and federal grants to strengthen its infrastructure and community programs. The awarded funds have been allocated across a variety of transformative initiatives, from downtown revitalization to flood mitigation, municipal infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. The Town of Smithtown is committed to utilizing every resource to ensure the health, safety, and economic prosperity of its residents. With over $80 million in grants secured since 2017, Smithtown continues to make meaningful progress toward a brighter and more resilient future,” read the release.

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John Zollo

By TBR staff

TBR News Media is endorsing Paul Damato (R, C) and John Zollo (R, C) for the two judges vacancies on the 4th District Court in the Town of Smithtown.

Both men’s dedication to the Smithtown community makes them an asset to a position that oversees a variety of cases, including but not limited to civil disputes, family matters, small claims and housing issues, all of which will directly affect their neighbors.

Their combined strong suits, which run the gamut from Zollo’s empathetic approach to justice, to Damato’s extensive experience in property evaluation, tax law and even serving as the Village of Port Jefferson assessor — will make for balanced and substantiated rulings.

Paul Damato. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo

Damato is a man who has chosen a field of law that requires great patience and know-how, and his knowledge of legal study is impressive. Additionally, Damato views the judiciary as requiring a “balance of technical precision, and fair application of law,” further emphasizing that his decisions will be grounded in his comprehensive study of primary and secondary legal sources. His comfortability with property-related cases sets him apart from his peers, as Damato truly derives pleasure from the practice of legal intricacies.

Zollo’s posts as assistant county attorney, Suffolk County, as well as town attorney for Smithtown, have prepared him for the procedural handling of local government issues, civil litigation and community centric cases. His understanding of legal ordinances has provided Zollo with the type of “inside” knowledge he needs to properly serve his town. He has viewed his various positions as a way to connect with his community, one person at a time, and Zollo’s strong standing within local circles allows him insight into the individualized needs of local residents. He prides himself on approaching each one of his cases with compassion and respect, feeling that his duty is that of a public servant — not an authoritarian. He shared that being a judge “is not just about knowing the law, it’s about understanding people, and what they need from the law.”

In addition to both men’s numerous attributes, it is important to note that Damato has extensive leadership experience. He served as president of an attorney appraiser and architectural engineer association. As an academic, he has taught legal education courses at the law schools of St. John’s University and Fordham University.

With Maria Scheuring’s decision not to come in, we have no choice but to exclude the Democratic nominee from our consideration. However, Scheuring does not lack in experience, and is a seasoned lawyer, with over two decades of experience. She is a trial and appellate attorney with experience in matrimonial, family and guardianship law, who started her career as an assistant district attorney in the Bronx. Additionally, Scheuring founded two law firms in which she has represented a broad range of clients, including corporations, musicians and major insurance companies. She later served as an associate attorney in NYC firms, focusing on plaintiff’s no-fault litigation, workers compensation, social security disability and high-stakes corporate defense work for municipalities and international companies. She ran a 2021 campaign for Town of Smithtown supervisor, losing to Ed Wehrheim (R),

Consequently, we feel that John Zollo and Paul Damato are the best judges choices for the 4th District. They are intelligent, personable and, most importantly, veterans in the legal field. They have what it takes to serve their district with dignity and admiration for not only judicial, but also the Smithtown community.

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