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Town of Brookhaven

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Special Olympics Polar Plunge at Cedar Beach in Mt. Sinai in 2023. Photo by Bill Landon

Hundreds of brave Special Olympics New York supporters are expected to participate in the 15th annual Polar Plunge: Freezin’ for a Reason at Cedar Beach, 244 Hrbor Beach Road, Mount Sinai on Saturday, Nov. 23, running into the freezing waters of the Long Island Sound to raise funds and awareness for local Special Olympics athletes and programming. 

Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. and the plunge will take place at 11:30 a.m.

Hosted by the Town of Brookhaven, last year’s event attracted 650 plungers and raised $140,000 for Special Olympics New York. 

The Polar Plunge is one of the most popular, profitable, and exciting fundraisers for Special Olympics New York. Participants raise money by asking friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances for donations. 

At a recent Brookhaven Town Board Meeting, Councilwoman Jane Bonner introduced New York Special Olympics athlete Matt Schuster and Director of Development, Alexis Dawson who talked about the annual Polar Plunge and encouraged people to participate and pledge a donation. 

Councilwoman Bonner presented Schuster and Dawson with a proclamation declaring September 28 as Special Olympics Day in the Town of Brookhaven. Schuster also spoke about what it takes to compete and succeed as a Special Olympics athlete, explaining that they train for weeks and months to prepare for local, regional and statewide competition. 

Athletes are supported by more than 5,000 coaches and 4,300 volunteers and are never charged to participate in the programs. It costs $400 to support training and competition for one athlete for one sports season. They rely solely on donations to pay the cost. 

For more information, to register or to donate, please visit www.specialolympics.org. For additional information, call 631-386-8038.

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Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico (R) at the Nov. 4 press conference. Photo courtesy TOB

On Nov. 4,  Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico (R) announced a new initiative to strengthen enforcement against illegal housing, which includes increased fines for rental permit violations aimed at repeat offenders. The effort seeks to enhance housing safety and compliance across Brookhaven, addressing the negative impact of illegal rentals on neighborhood quality of life.

“Our goal is code compliance to ensure Brookhaven remains a place where people live in clean, safe neighborhoods,” Panico stated. “We’re going to break the slumlord business model, with exponentially higher fines through robust enforcement.”

The announcement took place at a press conference at Brookhaven Town Hall, attended by all six Town Council members, Suffolk County Legislators James Mazzarella (R-Mastic,) Nick Caracappa (C-Selden) and Dominick Thorne (R-Patchogue,) as well as civic leaders from across Brookhaven.

The new fines will include increased penalties for violations of the Neighborhood Preservation Code and Zoning Code, such as operating a rental without a registration permit and failing to obtain required building permits. These measures aim to discourage landlords from viewing violations as simply a cost of doing business.

Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (D-Stony Brook) highlighted the impact of the higher fines. “For too many irresponsible landlords, the relatively low cost of fines has just been part of the cost of doing business,” he said. “By raising the minimum fine, we hope to deter abusive landlords, protect tenant rights and safety, and improve quality of life in our neighborhoods.”

Councilwoman Jane Bonner (R-Rocky Point) echoed this sentiment, noting, “Ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents is a top priority. Stronger enforcement isn’t just about fines; it’s about safe neighborhoods, protecting residents from unsafe conditions, and preserving the integrity of our town.”

Councilman Michael Loguercio (R-Ridge) emphasized the safety risks. “Some of these housing violations are major safety issues that can very easily cause fire, injury or death. By addressing violators, we protect communities and save lives.”

Suffolk County Legislators voiced their support. Mazzarella stated, “Suffolk County is committed to working with Brookhaven to address quality of life concerns with substandard housing and code violations. We will explore legislation to ensure those receiving county assistance live in safe conditions that comply with all local ordinances and codes.”

“We have to crack down on that. These steps the town is taking today to increase fines are a big step.” Thorne also commended the effort, saying, “This is a welcome cooperative effort on the part of the town and county, and I applaud the program to deter our neighbors from breaking the law,” Caracappa added.

Community leaders expressed their support as well. Frank Fugarino from the Pattersquash Civic Association said, “We welcome this effort and commend the Town for this initiative at both the Town and County level,” while Kareem Nugdalla from the Coram Civic Association called it “a very good first step to improve the quality of life in Coram.”

Deputy Supervisor and Councilman Neil Foley (R-Blue Point) and Councilman Neil Manzella (R-Selden) both noted the town has streamlined the rental compliance process.

“It’s disheartening to see both first-time and repeat offenders undermining the efforts of responsible property owners,” Manzella said.

Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig (R-Manorville) shared an outlook on next steps, stating, “I look forward to the Nov. 19 public hearing, where the town board will adopt the resolution to significantly increase fines for these illegal rentals.”

Acting Commissioner of Public Safety David Moran praised the town’s actions, adding, “Raising these quality-of-life violation fines is a great step in the right direction to protect our residents’ quality of life.”

“The good people we represent are our best eyes and ears in our communities, and those are the people we serve,” he said.

“We are grateful to our County partners who are reviewing potential changes at the County level dealing with Department of Social Services (DSS) housing.”

Visit brookhavenny.gov and brookhavenny.gov/housing, for more information.

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A scene from a previous Polar Plunge at Mt. Sinai’s Cedar Beach. Bill Landon photo

Hundreds of brave Special Olympics New York supporters are expected to participate in the Polar Plunge Saturday, November 23, running into the freezing waters of the Long Island Sound to raise funds and awareness for local Special Olympics athletes and programming.

The Polar Plunge is one of the most popular, profitable, and exciting fundraisers for Special Olympics New York. Participants raise money by asking friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances for donations. Event details are as follows.

When: Saturday, November 23, 2024
            9:30 a.m. – Registration
11:30 a.m. – Polar Plunge

Where: Cedar Beach, Mount Sinai
             244 Harbor Beach Rd, Mt Sinai, NY 11766

Link: Donate or Support the Plunge Here.

For additional information, please contact Alexis Dawson at [email protected] or 631-386-8038.

About Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York is one of the largest state chapters in the country, serving more than 45,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 300 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.com and a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.

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Photo from Town of Brookhaven

On October 18, Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Jane Bonner (back row, fifth from right) and Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (kneeling at right) visited the Sunshine Alternative Education Center (SAEC) in Port Jefferson Station to speak with the students about their roles on the Brookhaven Town Council. Also pictured is Dr. Carol Carter (second from right) Administrator/Prevention Professional.

The mission of the SAEC is to provide a safe, nurturing environment for all children and families that is designed to build self-esteem and positive social skills, empower youth to make healthy choices and decisions, prevent or reduce substance abuse and violence, and strengthen connections between families, schools and communities. Sunshine Prevention Center provides a variety of prevention-focused programs and services to the youth and families in Suffolk County.

For more information, go to www.sunshinepreventionctr.org.

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Photo from Councilwoman Bonner's office

On October 10, Town of Brookhaven Councilwoman Jane Bonner (center) met with Miller Place High School students in Tara Penske’s 12th Grade Civics classes. She spoke about her role in local government, her responsibilities and those of colleagues on the Town Board. Councilwoman Bonner was eager to speak with students about her job as an elected official and answered their questions. She also spoke with the students about pursuing a career in government and how they can make a difference in the community where they live.

Councilwoman Bonner said, “High School is an exciting time when students really start thinking about finding a career that suits them best and they will enjoy So, it was great to meet with Ms. Penske’s very curious students. They asked questions, eagerly joined in the discussions and a few said they would even be interested to pursue a career in government.” 

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Fall has arrived! Be sure to check out some of the Town of Brookhaven’s recreation centers’ upcoming fun and educational programs:

Robert E. Reid, Sr. Recreation Center
Defense Hill Road & Route 25A, Shoreham, NY 11786
Call 631-451-5306 for more information or help registering online.

Yoga
This is a slow-flow yoga class for all levels, moving at a slower pace and holding poses a little longer.  Breathing and relaxation exercises are incorporated to help de-stress. Please bring a yoga mat.
Dates: Mondays, October 21, November 4, 18, 25, December 2, 9
Time: 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Fee: $42.00 per 6-week session
To register online, click HERE.

Jump Bunch Jr. (Ages 3-5)
Learn a new sport each week. Includes sports such as soccer, football, lacrosse, volleyball and basketball. No equipment necessary. Just bring water.
Dates: Thursdays, November 7, 14, 21, December 5, 12, 19
Time: 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Fee: $62.00 per 6-week session
To register online, click HERE.

Jump Bunch Kids (Ages 6-9)
Learn a new sport each week. Includes sports such as soccer, football, lacrosse, volleyball and basketball. No equipment necessary. Just bring water.
Dates: Thursdays, November 7, 14, 21, December 5, 12, 19
Time: 5:15pm – 6:00pm
Fee: $62.00 per 6-week session
To register online, click HERE.

Henrietta Acampora Recreation Center
39 Montauk Highway, Blue Point, NY 11715
Call 631-451-6163 for more information or help registering online.

Sprouts & Friends: Babies & Non-Walkers (Ages 6 months – 12 months)
Join Sprouts & Friends for a fun, safe and creative way to learn to move through music and release energy. Our mission is to create joy while helping your little ones grow, learn, develop and explore through playful activities.
Dates: Fridays, November 8, 15, 22, December 6, 13, 20
Time: 1:00pm – 1:45pm
Fee: $42.00 per 6-week session
To register online, click HERE.

Country Line Dancing – Improver
These classes welcome advanced beginners and intermediate dancers.
Dates: Mondays, November 25, December 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Time: 2:30pm – 4:00pm
Fee: $47.00 per 6-week session
To register online, click HERE.

Parks Administration Building
286 Hawkins Road, Centereach, NY 11720
Call 631-451-6112 for more information or help registering online.

Indoor Bocce
Meet and play with different people each week. 2 games per week.
Individual sign up.
Dates: Tuesdays, November 12, 19, 26, December 3, 10, 17
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Fee: $32.00 per 6-week session
To register online, click HERE.

Centereach Sports Complex
286 Hawkins Road, Centereach, NY 11720
Call 631 451-6131 for more information or help registering online.

Pickleball
Check out our upcoming one day clinics.
Visit www.brookhavenny.gov/reconline under the Sports tab to register.

 

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Supervisor Dan Panico (center) thanked Brookhaven’s crew before they began clearing a blighted Middle Island property, for open space preservation. Courtesy TOB Public Information Ofiice

On Sept. 24, Supervisor Dan Panico was on site to thank the Town of Brookhaven’s demolition crew as they prepared to take down a blighted house and cottage in Middle Island. This effort clears the way for the preservation of 3.5 acres of critical open space. The Town acquired the parcel along East Bartlett Road to protect it from future development and to preserve its natural state. The land is located on the boundary between the Core of the Central Pine Barrens and the Compatible Growth Area.

This heavily wooded parcel features a quarter-acre pond, rolling topography and old-growth woodlands, making it a vital component of the local ecosystem. “In Brookhaven, we have proven that a government can be effective at preservation and the protection of our environment. This latest accomplishment is in a truly beautiful and serene part of our town, containing substantial preserved open space acreage and pine barrens,” said Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico.

This area serves as a natural wildlife sanctuary, home to a myriad of species. It is particularly important for migratory frogs including spring peepers, gray tree frogs and wood frogs which utilize the pond for breeding in the spring months. “In Brookhaven, our mission is to preserve where it makes sense and redevelop where appropriate. We have struck a wonderful balance and continue to achieve for our environment and economy on a daily basis,” commented Brookhaven Town Councilman Michael Loguercio.

In recent years, the Town has made significant strides in wildlife conservation. A wildlife tunnel was installed to connect the subject property to a wetland complex on the east side of the road. This tunnel is regularly used by various wildlife species including amphibians, mammals and birds, allowing them to safely cross the roadway. This initiative has virtually eliminated most roadkill in the area, demonstrating the Town’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

The removal of structures on the parcel will enable disturbed areas to return to their natural habitat while preserving the serene setting for future generations to enjoy.

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Photo from TOB

Town of Brookhaven’s Division of Women’s Services will host its  15th annual Conference, “Enough is Enough There’s no Excuse for Abuse,” at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hall, Farmingville on Saturday, Oct. 5 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with interactive workshops featuring expert speakers and self defense techniques to protect yourself in any situation. Keynote speaker will be Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. The event is free and open to all.

To register, visit https://www.brookhavenny.gov/753/Womens-Conference. or click here. For more information, call . 631-698-2074

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Three-dimensional rendering of the proposed redevelopment project at Jefferson Plaza. Graphic courtesy Valentin Staller

By Sabrina Artusa

Brookhaven Town Board approved the long-contested Staller Associates rezoning application for the Jefferson Plaza property in Port Jefferson Station Sept. 26. It was a crucial step signifying the progression of Staller’s plan to repurpose the plaza into a residential property along with commercial usage.

Staller Associates is an Islandia-based privately-held real estate company engaged in the development, ownership and management of commercial and residential real estate on Long Island.

Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (D-Stony Brook) announced the approval of the zone change from J2 Business to Commercial Redevelopment District, thus allowing Staller to begin planning for the apartments building. 

Jefferson Plaza in its current state. File photo

Brookhaven residents have been divided over the prospect of this project. Some are unhappy with certain details, such as design, and desire more deliberation before making what they view as a hasty decision to rezone.

“We are not saying this project won’t be good for the community … that’s a blighted shopping center,” said Lou Antoniello, treasurer of Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Civic Association, during the public hearing. “This project is not ready to be approved tonight. I don’t understand the rush to push this thing through.” 

Others stand wholly against developing more housing complexes and rezoning, while some are ardent proponents of revitalizing the largely unused plaza. 

Joseph Stallone spoke on behalf of the Long Island Builders Institute. “We have some of the best schools in the country and we are sending our young minds to North Carolina and Florida and Virginia,” he said. “As someone who grew up here, I would like to stay here and I would love to stay at a development like the one Staller has proposed.”

Ira Costell, president of PJSTCA, had hoped that the developer would have involved the public more throughout the process, instead of just on a rudimentary level in the early phases of the process. He said that, in the beginning, he and his organization met with Staller, but then went almost two years without direct contact. 

“We want to find a way to get behind this proposal, but we find that the process really failed us,” he said. 

The CRD zoning code was amended in 2020, and this new version is at the root of resident apprehension. CRD zones are “designed to achieve economically beneficial and socially desirable redevelopment which is more creative and imaginative in its land use,” the Brookhaven Town Code reads. 

The CRD label dictates that “civic space and recreational areas, including squares, private plaza, greens and public parks, shall be intermixed throughout the development for social activity, recreation and visual enjoyment.”

Indeed, Staller Associates intends to integrate a public plaza, a health club and a restaurant into the plaza in addition to the residential complex in this corridor off Route 112. 

Staller has previously announced that 20% of the units will be used only for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Kornreich said that Staller will likely enter into a form of partnership with a special-needs housing advocacy group to do so. The realty business has a property in Farmingdale, where it administer the same policy. 

Aesthetic cohesion is a major area of concern for Brookhaven residents who say that the influx of apartment buildings will make Port Jefferson Station lack a consistent architectural theme. To many, this rezoning increases the threat of overdevelopment. 

Kornreich assured those present that the appearance of the buildings is not set in stone. “A lot of these issues that were brought up by people at the [PJS/T] civic association — things related to the density, things related to the site, layout things related to the architecture — all these things will be worked out later in planning,” he said. 

“The site plan has not been drawn up yet in that level of detail” he said in regard to concerns over fire safety, which he said will be worked out later in the process. 

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Photo from Town of Brookhaven

Brookhaven Town Highway Superintendent Daniel P. Losquadro and Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich have announced the completion of two paving projects in Port Jefferson Station.

In the first project, crews completed drainage maintenance and replaced damaged concrete aprons and Belgium block curbing prior to resurfacing Ashley Court, Barraud Drive, Casey Lane, Iowa Avenue, New Jersey Avenue, and Wisconsin Avenue. The total cost for this paving project was approximately $227,000. The second project included the resurfacing of Gladysz Way at a cost of approximately $48,000.

“Both of these paving projects had been on my radar for some time,” said Superintendent Losquadro. “The roads that were resurfaced are now safer and smoother for residents, motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.”

Councilmember Kornreich said, “Thank you, Superintendent Dan Losquadro, for making our roads smoother and our community safer!”

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