Cheryl Behr

The work session primarily focused on two major topics: the Koopa replacement project and the Sharper Sale property improvements. For the Koopa replacement, discussion centered on the high initial bids (ranging from $100,000 to $300,000, with qualified bids around $150,000) compared to the original $100,000 budget, leading to a suggestion to rebid with flexibility for alternative materials, such as using AAC instead of wood for longevity. The Sharper Sale involved reviewing funding approved in 2019 ($81,600 through a community benefit agreement) for property preservation. Concerns were raised regarding the proposed 2.1-mile trail, particularly due to the risk of tick infestation on the proposed narrow dirt paths, which led to discussions about significantly reducing the trail scope to a quarter-mile path or utilizing different materials like pavers. Ongoing efforts to secure state legislation to allow park and recreation fees for ongoing maintenance were also highlighted.

The meeting involved announcements regarding a significant legal victory against an illegally overcrowded property at 1944 Waiting River Manor Road, resulting in the owner facing a contempt hearing. Council members also discussed upcoming America 250 celebrations, including a Red, White, and Blue Ball scheduled for January 23rd. The board reviewed numerous organizational resolutions for 2026, primarily setting salaries for elected officials, general town employees, highway department, police officers, and various districts. Other resolutions included approving budget transfers for unanticipated legal fees related to an election law case, approving change orders for the sewer district's Class A biosolids upgrade project, and addressing administrative errors regarding prior approvals. The session also involved authorizing attendance at various training seminars and meetings, and accepting employee resignations and retirements.

The session began with an executive session to discuss three matters: a contractual issue regarding the possible lease of town-owned property with Howard and Thomas, a legal matter concerning litigation between the Town of Riverhead and Elite Towers with Howard, and personnel matters related to a potential change in employee status with Chief Frost. Following the executive session, the open session commenced with discussions led by the Recreation Department, Northwalk Environmental Council, and the anti-litter committee regarding the installation of a second 'Litter Critter' trash receptacle. The presentation detailed the success of the first unit at Iron Pier Beach and outlined the plan for the second unit, which will be bee-themed and located near the community garden, playground, and a newly installed pollinator garden at Main Street and Griffin Avenue. The design incorporates recycled materials and will feature a QR code for educational outreach on pollinators and recycling. Discussions also covered logistics for collection, potentially using community service volunteers, and anticipated media coverage. Concerns regarding the proximity of recycled materials (soda cans) to the playground were addressed by clarifying the separation between the new receptacle and the pollinator garden/playground areas. The overall goal is to promote environmental awareness and improve cleanliness in the downtown area.

The Zoning Board of Appeals addressed several appeal cases requiring variances or relief from zoning chapter sections. Appeal 201857 regarding a variance for parcel creation was discussed, focusing on neighborhood impact and lot size uniformity. Appeal 2018064 for St. John the Baptist Church involved variances for a second freestanding sign and sideyard/front yard setbacks for their parking lot, with testimony given regarding the age and directional nature of the existing signs. Appeal 2018056 for Kathleen and Roger Gilbert involved variances for a deck extension into the front yard and shed placement in the sideyard, noting the property is a through lot. Appeal 2018058 concerning Joseph L'Aruso involved a proposed subdivision of two lots (20,000 and 25,100 sq ft, with 80,000 sq ft minimum required) and setbacks for existing and proposed dwellings, which required clarification on whether the lots were merged or remain separate tax lots, and the need for review by the town attorney regarding title issues. The board ultimately voted to adjourn the proceedings to a future meeting date regarding all open appeals.

The meeting addressed several key items, including the Home Depot outdoor storage and site improvements application, which involved finalizing revised plans addressing prior concerns related to fire safety, lighting compliance, and landscaping deficiencies, as well as cross-access with adjacent properties. The board also introduced the site plan application for 305 West Main Street, proposing a new 30,000 square foot commercial building, which requires relief from dimensional regulations and landscape buffer requirements due to its location and site constraints; this project also requires new environmental review approvals concerning wetlands and coordination on sanitary and water services, and the proposal of a new traffic light intersection. Finally, an amendment application for the previously approved Bargain Molding site plan was reviewed, specifically concerning traffic circulation updates.