Shelley LaRose-Arken

The Special Town Board Meeting focused on scheduling and funding summer entertainment for residents, specifically a series of free summer drive-in movies. Key agenda items included the acceptance of a donation from Catholic Health Services of Long Island (Good Samaritan Hospital) to fund the movie series. The Board also authorized the execution of necessary documents to secure licensing from Swank Motion Pictures and/or Criterion Pictures for showing the movies, and authorized an agreement with Luminescence Production Services LLC to host the series. Furthermore, the Board authorized executing a hold harmless agreement with the Westfield South Shore mall regarding the movie series. Another significant action was the authorization for the Supervisor to sign documents for issuing temporary outdoor dining permits on town-owned property, acknowledging the tireless work of the Planning Department in processing over 60 permits in under two weeks, often involving tents requiring separate permitting. Finally, the Board authorized an agreement with the CDA (Community Development Agency) for reimbursement for purchases of safety and hygiene items such as electrostatic disinfecting sprayers, air purification systems, non-contact thermometers, and masks to prepare facilities, including senior centers, for reopening safely post-COVID-19 response.

The event served to recognize Fire Island Ferries Incorporated and the crew of the M/V Fireball for their heroic actions in rescuing 11 individuals from sinking vessels in Long Island and Connecticut waters during July 2020. Specifically, the crew, including a deckhand on her second day, swiftly rescued six persons after a vessel capsized on July 26, 2020. The U.S. Coast Guard presented a Certificate of Merit for upholding core values of honor, respect, and devotion to duty. Local officials also provided commendations, highlighting the importance of Fire Island Ferries' services to the local community and economy, and the seamless coordination between the ferry crew, Coast Guard, and Suffolk County Marine Bureau during the rapid rescue operation.

The meeting featured Brentwood High School senior Samantha Barbera, who won first place in the Life's Work essay competition on bullying. Ms. Barbera discussed her essay, which focused on creating a bully-free environment for individuals with autism, detailing steps such as creating an autism awareness club, educating the community, and organizing inclusive fundraising events modeled after successful Nassau Suffolk Autism Society of America events. Councilman Jim O'Connor, Chair of the Disability Advisory Board, also shared remarks, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and supporting the disabled community. The supervisor and board expressed appreciation for Ms. Barbera's insights and encouraged her to implement her ideas at Hofstra University. A separate discussion highlighted a town dance program in Islip catering to individuals with disabilities, which also features the song "Cotton Eye Joe."

The meeting addressed significant challenges resulting from a recent major snowstorm. Discussion focused on the extensive cleanup efforts, including the deployment of approximately 300 pieces of equipment, contractors, payloaders, and bobcats to clear about 1200 miles of road, municipal parking lots, and seven railroad stations. A major challenge highlighted was the impact of vehicles parked on roadways, which hindered plowing efficiency and safety, leading to complaints about uneven clearing in neighborhoods. Officials reiterated that leaving vehicles on the road during a state of emergency violates town code. Additionally, the meeting covered the response to flooding situations, particularly at Ocean Beach, where high tide caused water accumulation of 10 to 12 inches on the main street. Preparedness measures, such as clearing drains and ensuring pumps functioned, were mentioned, but the volume of precipitation was overwhelming. Public safety staff confirmed their ongoing support for DPW efforts and monitoring of low-lying areas. Officials also indicated that public safety would begin issuing violations for illegally parked vehicles to ensure fair and safe road clearance for all residents.

The primary focus of the meeting was a public hearing to consider the adoption of the 2019 operating budget and the 2019 capital budget plan. Discussions clarified the 5.3 percent increase in the three major funds (General Fund, Highway Fund, and Town Outside Village Fund), which equates to a modest increase of approximately $28 for the average homeowner. Officials stressed that the overall budget remains tax cap compliant, as the increase across all taxing jurisdictions (including special districts) is below the allowed rate of 2.65 percent for the town. Key budget points included retiring significant debt ($18.8 million planned for 2019), maintaining all services without layoffs, and covering increased utility costs. Capital plan discussions highlighted standard items like road maintenance and equipment replacement. Notable non-standard capital items included funding for structural repairs at the Bayshore Highway yard and $5 million designated for a design study for the West Concourse expansion at Long Island MacArthur Airport to potentially secure federal funding.