HUNTINGTON STATION, NY — March 31, 2026

Residents gathered at the South Huntington Public Library this week for Let’s Talk, Huntington, a monthly community Q&A session with Town Councilwoman Jennifer Hebert designed to create an open space for conversation, questions, and connection.

Held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the South Huntington Public Library in Huntington Station, the event brought approximately 20 residents together, largely middle-aged to seniors, in a conversational setting. Most attendees were meeting for the first time, contributing to an open and respectful exchange of ideas.

Note: The following summary reflects direct observations from the portion of the meeting attended, along with notes provided by another attendee to capture earlier discussion.

A Conversation Focused on Accessibility

Councilwoman Hebert explained that the goal of the series is to make local government more accessible and give residents a direct line to raise concerns and share ideas.

“The goal of the meeting is just to bring accessibility…to hear about problems, to hear suggestions, and to maybe offer my input,” she said, noting that solutions often require collaboration beyond a single office.

She described the tone of the evening as constructive, with residents making an effort to listen and engage thoughtfully.

“I thought it was a very generous conversation among community members. People were really trying to listen to each other and see things from other perspectives.”

Housing Affordability Remains a Central Concern

Housing affordability was a dominant theme, particularly for young adults and working families trying to remain in the area. Residents pointed to rising rents, healthcare costs, and broader financial pressures.

Councilwoman Hebert acknowledged the reality facing younger generations:

“A lot of these kids…if they didn’t have parents who could cover college tuition, they’re coming out with hundreds of thousands in loans. It’s very hard.”

The discussion also touched on whether current “affordable housing” options are meeting the needs of local residents.

Development and Transparency in Focus

The conversation expanded into concerns about development and how new housing projects are planned. Residents questioned whether projects reflect community needs, raised concerns about density and infrastructure, and expressed a desire for clearer communication around decision-making.

Specific properties were discussed, including the former Touro Law Center building, which remains tied to a covenant limiting its use unless modified. Residents also raised concerns about aging infrastructure in similar buildings, including asbestos.

Questions were also raised about the new Kerber Farm educational program planned for recently cleared land at Froehlich Farm Nature Preserve, with residents noting limited publicly available information. Across these topics, transparency and communication were recurring themes.

Neighborhood Conditions in Huntington Station

Residents also raised concerns about conditions in Huntington Station, describing issues such as street cleanliness, maintenance, and a perception that the area receives less attention than other parts of town.

Basement Apartments and Ongoing Policy Debate

A resident raised a question about basement apartments, noting that many exist and asking how they are being addressed.

The issue has a long history in Huntington. Basement apartments were permitted prior to July 16, 2019, when Local Law No. 34-2019 ended new applications while allowing previously approved units to remain. The topic resurfaced in June 2023 during a heavily attended public hearing on a proposal to reinstate basement apartments under updated safety standards.

That proposal did not move forward following significant public debate and concerns about density and safety.

Environmental Concerns and Quality of Life

Environmental issues were also discussed, including a potential ban on gas-powered leaf blowers. Residents asked whether a decision is forthcoming and raised concerns about balancing environmental and health considerations with the needs of local businesses.

A resident also suggested that public hearings include more context so community members can better understand proposals before decisions are made.

Community Relationships as a Foundation

Throughout the evening, Councilwoman Hebert emphasized the importance of community relationships in addressing local issues.

“Working with your neighbors is the way to go about it. Those relationships go a long way toward solving some issues.”

She also highlighted the role of everyday interactions in building stronger communities.

“The best thing that contributes to your mental health is the micro-connections you make every day.”

Looking Ahead

Let’s Talk, Huntington is expected to continue as a monthly series, with future sessions planned in other locations around the town and the possibility of additional council members participating.

“Anything that we can do as council members that builds trust within the community is huge,” she said.

To stay informed about upcoming community meetings and local events, subscribe to the Huntington Matters Newsletter and visit the Huntington Matters Community Calendar for the latest updates across town.

The post Let’s Talk Huntington: Residents Share Concerns at Community Q&A with Councilwoman Jennifer Hebert appeared first on Huntington Matters.

HUNTINGTON, NY – March 21, 2026

The Town of Huntington held a nearly three-hour public hearing on the proposed Melville Crossing development, where developer Steel Equities presented plans for a 16.2-acre mixed-use residential and commercial project within the Melville Town Center Overlay District. The proposal would redevelop the former MSC Industrial Supply site at 75 Maxess Road, replacing the existing 170,000-square-foot office/industrial building.

What followed on Thursday night was a wide-ranging and often emotional public comment period, with residents voicing concerns over water quality, school impacts, and tax abatements (PILOTs) – alongside others who strongly supported the project as a way to keep young people and workers on Long Island.

PILOT Agreement and Tax Impact Take Center Stage

A major focus of the night was the developer’s request for a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement.

According to project materials, the PILOT is projected to significantly increase revenue to local taxing districts over time. By the projected build year (FY 2028/29), total payments are estimated to rise from about $642,000 under current conditions to approximately $962,000, with long-term revenues projected to exceed $3 million annually.

Developers emphasized that without a PILOT, the project would not be financially feasible.

At the same time, many residents pushed back, arguing that tax abatements shift the burden onto existing homeowners.

One speaker warned:

“The tax break doesn’t eliminate costs. It transfers them…existing homeowners will be asked to carry the burden.”

School District Concerns – and a “Unique” Proposal

The Half Hollow Hills School District emerged as a key stakeholder in the discussion.

Superintendent John O’Farrell made clear that PILOTs are not designed to benefit schools, noting:

“Public school districts run on taxes. PILOTs or tax abatements are incentives designed to encourage economic growth.”

However, a potential compromise is being explored.

Based on the developer’s projections – which estimate relatively low student generation due to mostly studio, one and two-bedroom units (roughly 7 students per 100 units) – discussions are underway for an agreement where:

• If actual student enrollment exceeds projections
• The developer would compensate the school district for the additional cost

Town Supervisor Ed Smyth confirmed this during a post-hearing interview:

“The developer is working directly with the school district to make sure that there’s a plan in place that if the influx of schoolchildren was unexpected, the developer will then make a payment – or some type of compensation.”

Smyth described the concept as highly unusual – a departure from typical PILOT arrangements – and indicated that reaching an agreement could significantly influence the Town Board’s decision.

Water Quality and Aquifer Concerns Dominate Public Comment

Perhaps the most intense and consistent concern raised by residents involved water quality and the Long Island aquifer.

Multiple speakers warned that sending treated wastewater offshore – rather than recharging the aquifer – could worsen saltwater intrusion and long-term water supply issues.

One resident explained:

“You break the water cycle. You pipe water offshore… the aquifer gets lowered… you have saltwater intrusion.”

Another environmental expert emphasized the broader risk:

“These are ecological systems providing the sole source aquifers for all of our drinking water. Saltwater intrusion is not a casual problem. It is a major problem.”

Others pointed out that the project sits within a special groundwater protection area, raising additional concern about overburdening the aquifer.

Romaine’s Position: Stop Sending Water to the Ocean

During the hearing, a resident read a previously published statement from Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, emphasizing a shift in policy priorities:

It is “stupid to send our waste into Long Island Sound or the ocean. It should be returned to our aquifers after being treated to a tertiary level.”

Romaine has advocated for sewer systems that recharge groundwater instead of discharging offshore, citing growing concerns about saltwater intrusion.

Smyth: Sewer Law, Limitations, and What Can Change

In the interview following the hearing, Supervisor Smyth clarified a critical point about current law:

“If you are in a sewer district in Suffolk County, Suffolk County law requires you to connect. Every property is obligated to connect.”

That means projects like Melville Crossing cannot legally choose alternative wastewater systems without action from the Suffolk County Legislature.

Smyth also addressed the broader issue of aquifer recharge:

• Only sewer districts currently have the authority to manage discharge
• Existing treated water is not yet purified to a level suitable for widespread reuse (such as irrigation)
• Changes would require county legislation and infrastructure upgrades

He referenced ongoing discussions at the county level to begin reusing treated water – starting with limited applications like golf course irrigation – as a first step toward aquifer recharge.

Housing Affordability: A Passionate Divide — and a Clear Trend

If there was one theme that defined the night, it was emotion – particularly around housing, affordability, and the future of Long Island’s next generation.

Based on a review of the full transcript, an estimated 55-65% of speakers voiced support for the project or for expanding housing options, while roughly 25-30% expressed opposition, with others remaining mixed or focused on specific concerns like infrastructure and environmental impact.

A significant portion – roughly 20-30% of all speakers – specifically raised concerns about water quality and aquifer impacts, showing how deeply environmental issues are intertwined with the housing debate.

Supporters spoke passionately about what they see as a growing crisis:

“Many of our people who work here cannot afford to live here. We need housing near jobs.”

Others shared deeply personal stories of loss – not of homes, but of proximity to family:

“My kids are not coming back. Leaving Long Island was just a better, more affordable fit for them.”

And parents worried about what comes next:

“There might not be a place for them to come and stay.”

At the same time, critics questioned whether projects like this truly solve affordability – or simply introduce higher-density housing without meaningful relief for current residents.

What “Affordable Housing” Actually Means Here

One key point often misunderstood in these discussions:

All projects within the Melville Town Center Overlay District are required to include a 20% affordable housing component under Town of Huntington guidelines.

However, several speakers and observers noted that the term “affordable housing” can be misleading. In practice, these units are typically better described as “discounted housing” tied to HUD income thresholds.

Meaning:

• They are below market rate
• But not necessarily “affordable” for all residents
• And eligibility is based on specific income bands

This distinction became an undercurrent throughout the discussion – especially among those skeptical that the project would truly address affordability at scale.

What Happens Next

With the public hearing now closed, the process moves into its next phase. Supervisor Ed Smyth explained that the Town Board will review everything presented and heard from the community then return to the developer with requested revisions based on that feedback

He also clarified an important procedural point:

There will not be another public hearing unless there is a significant change to the proposal.

The Town Board has 90 days to make a decision or they can extend the review period for an additional 90 days.

Where to Review the Full Project

Residents who want to dig deeper can review:

• Full project plans
• Environmental studies
• Technical reports referenced during the hearing

Available on the Town of Huntington website’s Steel Equities / Melville Crossing project page.

You can also watch the full public hearing:

Huntington Matters LIVE Stream replay

• Available on our YouTube channel
• And on our Facebook page

Check out a similar Steel Equities development The Belmont at Eastview at 300 Carleton Ave, Central Islip, NY.

Make Your Voice Heard

The Town Board made it clear: community feedback matters in shaping what happens next.

Whether you support the project, oppose it or are still undecided, you are encouraged to submit your thoughts and questions directly to the Town Board by Email:

• esmyth@HuntingtonNY.gov
• dbennardo@HuntingtonNY.gov
• jhebert@HuntingtonNY.gov
• blupinacci@HuntingtonNY.gov
• tmari@HuntingtonNY.gov
• araia@HuntingtonNY.gov (Town Clerk – for official public record)

If you have something to say – now is the time to say it.

Photography by Dana E. Richter. Videography by June Margolin.

The post Melville Crossing Public Hearing Draws Strong Reactions on Water, Schools, and Taxes appeared first on Huntington Matters.

Supervisor Ed Smyth and the Huntington Town Board would like to advise residents that there will be a standalone public hearing at Huntington Town Hall on March 19, 2025 at 6:00PM to give the public the opportunity to make comments on the proposed plans for Steel 75 Maxess, LLC at the Melville Town Center.

All members of the community are invited to attend and participate.

Preliminary site plans, full environmental review, and more studies and information may be found on the Town of Huntington website at https://huntingtonny.gov/75Maxess.

Huntington Matters will live stream the Public Hearing on our YouTube Channel and Facebook Page. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to receive a notification when the stream begins.

The proposed project, known as Melville Crossing, is the first application submitted under the Melville Town Center Overlay District Special Use Permit, approved on December 10, 2024. The overlay district was created to transform underutilized office buildings and parking lots into a walkable, mixed-use downtown environment.

The plan allows for up to 1,500 residential units, with 20% designated as affordable housing, along with a required mix of retail and commercial space. Buildings may be constructed up to four stories, consistent with the existing light industrial zoning. Additional requirements include 40-foot sidewalks, open space elements, and a balance of rental and ownership housing options.

Each project within the overlay district must undergo extensive review, including environmental, traffic, waste management, water usage, and school impact studies, evaluating both the individual project and its broader impact on the Melville Town Center area.

A unique aspect of this zoning framework is that each proposal must be individually approved or denied by the Huntington Town Board following a public hearing, ensuring community input is part of the decision-making process.

Residents wishing to speak at the hearing may sign up for a three-minute public comment period. Huntington Matters recommends arriving early, as speakers are called in order of sign-up. Written comments and questions may also be submitted via email to the Town Board, with a copy to the Town Clerk, to be included in the official public record.

Email addresses:
esmyth@HuntingtonNY.gov
dbennardo@HuntingtonNY.gov
jhebert@HuntingtonNY.gov
blupinacci@HuntingtonNY.gov
tmari@HuntingtonNY.gov
araia@HuntingtonNY.gov (Town Clerk)

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Huntington Supervisor Ed Smyth and Town Board Announce Public Hearing to Consider Offering Four New Tax Exemptions for Qualified Residents

Town anticipated to opt in on recent NYS Legislative action to allow real property tax exemptions

HUNTINGTON, NY – Supervisor Ed Smyth, and the Huntington Town Board will hold a stand-alone Public Hearing on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 9:00 AM to hear public comment on four proposed tax exemptions recently enacted by the NYS Legislature.

NYS lawmakers recently adopted amendments to the Real Estate Property Tax Law to allow municipalities the option to provide property tax exemptions for qualifying members of four specific groups of constituents:

• Low Income Senior Citizens
• Surviving Spouses of Firefighter/Ambulance Workers Killed in the Line of Duty
• Surviving Spouses of Police Officers Killed in the Line of Duty
• Active-Duty Military Stationed in a Combat Zone

Of the tax exemptions enacted by the State, three are new to the Town of Huntington. 

The Town already participates in the real property Senior Citizens Tax Exemption, for qualified seniors over 65.  What’s new is the increase in the allowable exemption, which was raised from 50% to 65% maximum allowed.  The good news for Huntington Seniors who are already enrolled in the exemption is that once the Town opts into the amended law, they do not have to reapply.  No new applications will be needed.  The Town Assessor’s Office will reprocess the original applications to scale them with the new exemption.  The Assessor’s Office will also adjust new applications that are received by March 1^st.

Pending the anticipated opt-in by the Huntington Town Board, applications, instructions and qualifications for all three new partial tax exemptions will be available on the Town website through the Assessor’s Office. 

All four tax exemptions will be applicable for the 2026 – 2027 tax season.  In order for residents’ applications to be considered, they must meet the NYS filing deadline of MARCH 1, 2026.

The following is a brief synopsis of each tax exemption, qualifications and filing information:

Senior Citizen Low Income:

No new application needed. Assessor’s Office will process and determine eligibility for new levels listed here:

• Less than $47,000                                        65%

• $47,000 or more but less than $48,000       60%

• $48,000 or more but less than $49,000       55%

• $49,000 or more but less than $50,000       50%

Surviving Spouse Exemption-Firefighter/Ambulance worker Killed In Line of Duty:

***50% Assessed Value***

New Application and registration

Qualifications:

• Primary residence only.

• Must be record owner. 

If in a trust then must submit full copy of trust with application.

• Premises used for Residential purposes. 

If part of premises is not residential, need proof use.

• Firefighters/Ambulance worker must have had a minimum of 2-years enrolled in Fire Department/Ambulance Company

Required documentation:

• Marriage and Death Certificate needed.

• Commissioners letter confirming killed in line of duty.

Surviving Spouse Exemption – Police Officer Killed In Line of Duty:

(PO DEFINED IN CRIMINAL PROCEDURE LAW)

***50% Assessed Value***

New Application and registration

Qualifications:

• Must be Primary residence of the surviving spouse.

• Must be record owner-if it is in a trust then full copy of trust required.

Required documentation:

• Marriage and Death Certificate

• Letter from police department/agency or division of Criminal Justice Services confirming line of duty status.

Active Military-Combat Zone Exemption:

(Can’t be combined w/other Vets Exemptions)

25% of Statutory Amount

New Application and registration

Exemption only applies to Town and County. Can Not Be Applied To School Taxes Per NYS

Qualifications:

• Primary residence only.

• Must be record owner -if in a trust need full copy of trust.

• Must be active duty in combat zone (as designated by US Presidential Exec. Order) during the taxable year.

Required documentation:

• Military Service Proof-need military orders or permanent change of station orders showing NY duty station AND certified letter from Commanding Officer or copy of orders confirming combat zone service during taxable year.

Filing Deadline: May be filed now, up to but no later than March 1, 2026 – Applications received after filing deadline will be denied.  Annual refiling required.

Application Accepted: In Person: 8:30 AM – 4:15 PM – Monday through Friday

By Mail: Must be postmarked no later than March 1, 2026.  If mailing, consider using certified/return receipt.

All applications are currently available and are being accepted immediately.  If you are previously registered and have questions about an existing exemption, please contact the Assessor’s Office directly at (631) 351-3226.  All other inquiries please contact (631) 351-3000.

The post Public Hearing Announced to Consider Offering Four New Tax Exemptions for Qualified Residents appeared first on Huntington Matters.

CENTERPORT, NY – The Town of Huntington brought the community together for a special unveiling of the new Bald Eagles of Centerport bronze sculpture on Mill Dam Bridge on Saturday, December 6, 2025.

Councilman Sal Ferro and Councilwoman Theresa Mari honored and appreciated the hard work and persistence of Robert Schwartz, Founder of Bald Eagles of Centerport, for the successful installation of the beautiful sculpture. Councilman Ferro shared Rob’s most fruitful strategy – leaving the Eagle statue on Sal’s desk – staring at him – for over a year!

Created by artist Shawn McAvoy, the striking bronze piece honored the original “Dad Eagle” – the majestic bird whose daily flights over the harbor once captivated Centerport residents, photographers, veterans, and all who cherished the area’s natural beauty. His presence had become a symbol of freedom, resilience, and community pride.

Photographers and volunteers from the Bald Eagles of Centerport community were also on site, sharing their work and offering limited-edition 2026 calendars celebrating our town’s iconic eagle family.

The new sculpture now stands as a tribute to Centerport’s cherished eagle legacy – honoring the past while inspiring future generations to value and protect Long Island’s wildlife and natural landscapes.

Bald Eagles of Centerport Facebook Group

Photography by Diane Schaber. Videography by June Margolin.

The post Photo Stories: Unveiling Bald Eagles of Centerport Dad Eagle Statue appeared first on Huntington Matters.

HUNTINGTON, NY – The Halloween spirit was alive and well in Huntington Village this week, as families, friends, and costumed characters of every kind filled the streets for the annual Huntington Halloween Trick or Treat and Costume Parade.

The evening kicked off near the Huntington Post Office, where a sleek race car parked along the street caught everyone’s attention – and no, it wasn’t a Halloween prop! It belonged to Huntington’s own 14-year-old professional race car driver, Darren Krantz, who generously donated plenty of candy for the night’s festivities.

From the starting point at the Post Office to Wall Street, the parade was a lively procession of ghosts, dragons, zebras, superheroes, dogs in costume, cowboys, Ghostbusters, Scooby Doos, and countless other creative ensembles. Local businesses opened their doors – and their candy bowls – to hundreds of eager trick-or-treaters, helping make the night a safe and memorable experience.

From “The Incredibles” to dinosaurs, witches, and even a walking taco or two, and dont forget Winnie The Pooh, Mr. and Mrs. Frankenstein, and all the families who joined together to make so many Halloween family themes with their kids, and/or pets, strolling down the street together laughing and having so much fun.

A special thanks goes to Huntington’s General Services Department for keeping everything running smoothly and safely, and to the Highway Department for their work ensuring pedestrian safety throughout the event. To Town Supervisor Ed Smyth and his wife who had a full table of treats for all, handing out candy and sharing smiles, joined by members of the Town Board, all helping to bring the true spirit of Huntington to life.

The creativity and community pride on display were nothing short of amazing. Events like these remind us how special it is when our town comes together to simply enjoy the night – filled with laughter, costumes, and plenty of Halloween fun.

Photography by Diane Schaber. Videography by June Margolin.

The post Huntington Halloween Costume Parade Brings Fun and Frights to the Village appeared first on Huntington Matters.

HUNTINGTON, NY – Families, costumes, candy, and crafts filled Heckscher Park’s Tennis Courts on Saturday from 5 to 8pm as the Town of Huntington hosted its first-ever “Halloween at Heckscher” – a free community celebration that brought out hundreds of residents for a night of laughter, creativity, and community connection.

Local families turned out in full costume to enjoy a crisp fall evening filled with activities, a massive inflatable obstacle course from Mac Bounce, free food from Mac’s Snack Shack, Touch A Halesite Fire Truck and the “Hocus Pocus” outdoor movie.

A Town-Wide Effort

According to organizers, this was the first of what they hope will become an annual tradition. “Now that we know the community loves coming out for Halloween, next year we’ll be even more prepared,” said the Town’s Director of Communications Christine Geed. “Every table you see here today is hosted by a department of the Town of Huntington. This is truly the Huntington team coming out for the community.”

Supervisor Ed Smyth, Chief of Staff Michelle McCarthy, Councilman Dr. Dave Bennardo, Town Clerk Andrew Raia, Director of Public Safety Chris Lau, Superintendent of Highways Andre Sorrentino and Deputy Superintendent Walter Edwards joined in supporting the event, applauding the staff and volunteers who made it happen. Departments across town – from Environmental Waste Management, Engineering Services and Public Safety to the Youth Bureau – each hosted their own tables, games, activities and giveaways.

C. Todd Jamison Director of Parks and Recreation shared the Town’s original idea was to host the event on the adjacent field but pivoted to the Tennis courts instead to give the grass more time to recover from the recent Carnival. “This is perfect” said Director Jamison of the Tennis Courts, “It’s fenced in so the kids can safely run around, it’s flat and easy to clean up afterward.”

Robert Conte, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation had the important role as a “statue” blocking an extra obstacle course entrance to keep the children inside safe.

Crafts, Creativity, and Community Spirit

The festival showcased the best of local creativity. One highlight came from the Huntington Arts Council booth, where volunteers helped kids make a custom pocket patch from old jeans using 100% recycled materials leftover from their recent “Second Chance Art Supplies” event. “We kept over 500 pounds of art materials from going to landfills,” said Executive Director Kieran Johnson proudly. “We also helped more than 250 artists access affordable supplies. It’s inspiring to see the community’s creativity on display.”

Kids lined up to create spiderwebs and monsters, sew patches, and make DIY trick-or-treat bags – all while learning about sustainability.

Costumes, Candy, and Characters Everywhere

The crowd was a parade of costumes – from tiny tacos to dazzling LED-lit Princesses and a Daddy Narwhal. One young visitor dressed as Bumblebee, the beloved Transformer, stole the show with an on-the-spot “transformation” that drew cheers from the crowd. “That’s the best costume!” one spectator shouted as kids gathered to watch.

Meanwhile, the Huntington Youth Bureau Director Janine Salgado, Counselors and their staff helped children make spiders and pumpkins, while other town departments handed out goodie bags, candy, and hosted sticker crafts. “We had hundreds of bags – they were gone in three seconds!” laughed Melina Pascual from the Community Development Corporation.

No more candy? No problem! The costumed kids raced to the playground where they spun, jumped, swung and climbed. “The slide looks like the escalator at Comic Con” joked June Margolin from Huntington Matters referencing the different genres of characters.

Lights, Laughs, and Movie Magic

As the sun set, the family movie “Hocus Pocus” lit up the night on the Tennis Courts, capping off the celebration. Between the obstacle course, the snack shack, and the laughter of costumed kids racing from booth to booth, it was clear the event was a hit.

“This is what community looks like,” one attendee said while taking in the festive scene. “It’s neighbors, families, and our Town coming together just to have fun.”

Looking Ahead

Town officials say this first Halloween at Heckscher Park is just the beginning. With the success of this year’s turnout, Huntington residents can look forward to an even bigger Halloween event next year.

As Huntington Matters signed off from the night’s live broadcast, they summed up the spirit of the evening perfectly: “Come on down, neighbors – we’re the best town ever.”

Photography by Diane Schaber, Videography by June Margolin.

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