Steven C. Ballas

The special presentation segment of the meeting commenced with a prayer led by Dr. Mufti Mohammed Farhan from the Islamic Center of Long Island, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by U.S. Army Specialist Al Staub, Jr. The Board honored Specialist Staub, who is deploying to Iraq, with a Town of Oyster Bay Citation, acknowledging his nearly six years of service with the Highway Department. The Supervisor also highlighted recent commemorations, including the U.S. Marines' 247th birthday and Veterans Day, and the laying of a wreath at President Roosevelt's grave. Announcements included the ongoing fifth annual DVD collection drive supporting servicemen and women and children with cancer. Keith Scott was recognized for his new role overseeing grant funding initiatives for the Family and Children's Association (FCA), an organization serving vulnerable Long Island populations, including seniors and those affected by the pandemic's aftermath on mental health and addiction.

The agenda for this Town Board meeting included several public hearings regarding the 2026 Fire Protection Contracts for the Plainview Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., the Glenwood Hook & Ladder Engine and Hose Co. No. 1, Inc. Fire District, and the Wantagh Fire District. Key resolutions involved approving dock applications, authorizing staff training for aquatics, extending a license agreement for food and beverage concessions, and scheduling various town events such as Armed Forces Appreciation Day, Car Shows, the Challenger Jamboree Baseball Tournament, "Empire State Ride Long Island," the Holiday Ice Skating Show, the "Hometown Heroes Program," the Long Island Blues Ice Hockey Tournament, "Oyster Bay Day," the "Shootout for Soldiers" lacrosse event, the Special Olympics "Polar Plunge," and the Special Olympics Spring Games. Other resolutions addressed property cleanup assessments being referred to Nassau County tax rolls, assistance for the St. Patrick's Day Parade, reimbursement for professional certification fees, acceptance of highway improvement contracts, extension of tree trimming and fence replacement contracts, awarding road restoration contracts, and final payments for the CNG Fueling Facility Decommissioning. The Board also addressed refunds for late payment penalties and approved resolutions pertaining to the 2026 Capital Program for equipment purchases and park/facility improvements. Finally, resolutions were added to amend commercial property insurance effective dates and advertise hearings for proposed local law exemptions for surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty and for fully disabled veterans.

The meeting commenced with a special presentation led by religious leaders, Pastors Carol and Robert Brown, who offered an invocation and scripture reading, followed by recognition for their community service and humility. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by veterans from the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 82, who were also recognized for their service. A moment of silence was observed for members of the Armed Forces, first responders, and health care heroes. Supervisor Saladino highlighted the inspiration drawn from the Olympics and the celebration of Black History Month, noting an upcoming event. He also commended the 'Valentines for Veterans' program involving elementary and middle school students. The Town Board proceeded with its business after the opening ceremonies.

The meeting commenced late due to storm-related issues, and the Supervisor expressed pride in town employees for their work during a major snowstorm, detailing ongoing snow clearing efforts. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing individuals. United States retired Army Staff Sergeant Arturo Edwards led the Pledge of Allegiance. Jarvis T. Brown, President of CSEA Long Island Region 1, was presented with the Town of Oyster Bay's 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Distinguished Service Award for his leadership, advocacy for workers' rights, and community service. Following this, Rabbi Ron delivered remarks in observance of Holocaust Remembrance Day, sharing personal family history related to the Holocaust and emphasizing the importance of education and vigilance against anti-Semitism. The Supervisor reiterated the town's commitment to supporting Jewish residents. The agenda included a planned hearing, review of the Resolution Calendar, and an executive session.

The special presentation meeting focused on two primary areas. First, the Supervisor welcomed attendees and detailed efforts concerning the Bethpage and Hicksville Water Districts. The Town Attorney and external counsel explained a need to resolve a 1934 legislative oversight by delegating powers under Article 12 of the Town Law to these districts to solidify their authority concerning issues like delinquent water rents, water main installation in town roads, purchasing private water systems, selling water externally, and enacting ordinances. Second, the Board honored Frank Yao of the Relay of Love Foundation for his generous annual donation of toys to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program, which exceeded 50,000 toys this year. Other announcements covered the opening of outdoor ice skating rinks, a successful holiday light show event, and an upcoming blood drive.