Public Meetings - Huntington, New York

The Town of Huntington Zoning Board of Appeals met on February 26, 2026, to conduct eight public hearings and act on other business. The board approved the minutes of the February 12, 2026 meeting, granted seven of the eight applications heard, and closed the final hearing on the proposed OHICA Castle condominium project with decision reserved. Preliminary Matters - The Pledge of Allegiance was held. - Minutes of the February 12, 2026 meeting were reviewed with corrections; a motion to accept was made by Mr. McGrath, seconded by Mr. Stanley, and approved. - Staff confirmed that required postings and publications were completed, giving the board jurisdiction for the evening’s hearings. Public Hearings 1. Public Hearing 23629 — 56 Newfoundland Avenue, Huntington - Applicant Paul Curcio of Garten Associates, representing the owners, requested accessory structure relief to legalize an existing detached deck in the front yard, fencing atop retaining walls, and a shed located too close to the property line. - Existing conditions include a shed 1.25 feet from the rear property line where 2 feet is required, and cumulative fence-and-retaining-wall heights of 7.58 feet and 9 feet where 6 feet is the maximum. - Board members noted the property had been before the board on September 18, 2025 for a front porch variance, and the current violations were discovered during the building permit process. - No public speakers commented. A motion to grant was made by Mr. Castagna, seconded by Mr. Basso, and approved with no stated opposition. 2. Public Hearing 23627 — 570 McKinley Terrace, Centerport - Attorney Tom Abate represented owner Catherine Craig. The application requested side yard and accessory structure relief to renovate and expand the dwelling, relocate a shed, and add plumbing to an accessory building. - The property is an R7, 0.21-acre through lot with steep slopes and two front yards. The project would increase gross floor area by roughly 200 square feet and maintain existing side yard nonconformities, including a 5.25-foot side yard where 7 feet is required and an existing bump-out of about 3.25 to 3.5 feet. - A new Suffolk County Department of Health Services-approved septic system requires moving the shed from the front-yard side to the rear yard area. - The accessory building was previously legalized by ZBA 23146 on October 5, 2023, with conditions prohibiting kitchen/cooking facilities, heat, air conditioning, plumbing, overnight habitation, and rental use, while permitting an existing wood-burning stove. The applicant proposed to remove the stove and add only a bathroom and wet bar, with no heat or air conditioning, winterized plumbing, and a recorded covenant requiring removal of all plumbing upon sale or transfer. - Public comment: Daniel Martin of 560 McKinley Terrace, a neighbor for 40 years, expressed concern that moving the shed onto the steep rear slope would be unsupported and would be unsightly for Jackson Crescent, and that adding water and an exterior staircase could make the structure appear to be an accessory apartment despite the covenant. The board also noted receiving a neighbor letter due to the accessory building’s close proximity. - The board clarified that the prior conditions would continue except that plumbing would be permitted; there would be no kitchen/cooking facilities, heat, air conditioning, habitation, or rental use, the stove would be removed, and the covenant would be recorded. A motion to grant was made, seconded, and approved with no stated opposition. 3. Public Hearing 23622 — 2 Oberlon Drive, Greenlawn - Scott Kahn of Oyster Bay Drafting represented owner Carlye Baron. The application requested front yard and unobstructed side yard relief for first- and second-floor additions and a portico. - Requests included an attached garage at a 38.6-foot front yard setback where 50 feet is required, a second-floor primary bedroom extension at 38.5 feet where 50 feet is required, and a portico at 35.16 feet where 43 feet is required. - No public speakers commented. A motion to grant was made, seconded, and approved with no stated opposition. 4. Public Hearing 23605 — 91 Brennan Street, Huntington - Scott Kahn represented owner Michael Wackernah. The application requested accessory structure relief to legalize an existing 925-square-foot detached garage with roof over where 750 square feet is allowed. - The enclosed garage portion is 768.3 square feet, exceeding the allowed amount by 18.3 square feet, while the remaining 156.7 square feet is a roofed-over porch for outdoor storage. The lot is roughly 37,000 square feet and oversized for the R5 district; the structure is about 2 percent of the lot. - The applicant offered a condition that the roofed-over portion never be enclosed. - No public speakers commented. The application was granted. 5. Public Hearing 23625 — 39 E. Woods Drive, Cold Spring Harbor - Scott Kahn represented owners Michael and Jessica Grella. The application requested front and rear yard relief for an attached three-car garage and a roofed-over rear patio. - The proposed front setback is 40.68 feet where 50 feet is required, and the rear roofed porch would be 42.55 feet where 50 feet is required. The property is in an R80 zone. - The applicant offered a condition that the open roofed porch structure never be enclosed. - No public speakers commented. A motion to grant was made, seconded, and approved with no stated opposition. 6. Public Hearing 23604 — 129 Hayes Place, Centerport - Scott Kahn represented owners Russell S. and Kathryn Hoernig. The application requested lot width and lot area relief to construct a one-story addition with a front porch. - The proposal includes a front-yard encroachment for a one-story vestibule, portico, and living room addition, and a side extension with a 5-foot side yard where 7 feet is required. - The lot is undersized: approximately 4,000 square feet with 40 feet of frontage in an R7 district requiring 7,500 square feet and 75 feet of frontage. The applicant proposed no change to the existing lot size. - Board members commented that undersized lots are common in the President’s section of Centerport and Huntington. - No public speakers commented. A motion to grant was made, seconded, and approved with no stated opposition. 7. Public Hearing 23606 — 191 E. 2nd Street, Huntington Station - Attorney Tom Abate represented Jeffrey Littell and 191 East Second Street LLC. The application requested a special use permit for outdoor overnight parking, parking location relief, rear yard and combined side yard relief, and a loading-space waiver to establish a multi-tenant industrial office and warehouse space. - The property is an I-3 light industrial lot of 1.14 acres, or 49,860 square feet, at the northern terminus of East 2nd Street, abutting Long Island Railroad tracks. It was formerly the Four Way Pallet site, which burned in a nine-hour fire. - The proposal is a new building of just over 18,000 square feet with 10 to 12 tenant units. Relief sought included a 10-foot rear yard setback where 20 feet is required, a 20-foot combined side yard setback where 35 feet is required, front-yard parking of 14 cars within 5 feet of the street line where the code allows 10 cars no closer than 20 feet, and waiver of two loading-zone spaces. The plan exceeds minimum off-street parking requirements by three stalls. - In response to planning board concerns about curb appeal, the applicant proposed land-banking nine of the 14 front parking stalls, leaving five front spaces and landscaped area. - Six overnight commercial-vehicle parking spaces were proposed, three on each side of the building. - Traffic expert Wayne Muller of RM Engineering testified that there would be no undue traffic congestion or hazard and that parking would be adequate. Real estate expert Michael Lynch testified the project would not adversely affect nearby property values and would be a major aesthetic improvement over the former pallet yard. - No public speakers commented. The board adopted an omnibus motion including a negative declaration under SEQRA, the special use permit, and the requested variances. A motion by Mr. McGrath was seconded by Mr. Castagna and approved with no stated opposition. The board noted the applicant still must obtain site plan approval from the planning board. 8. Public Hearing 23635 — 135 W. Gare/Westgate Drive, OHICA Castle Property - Attorney Michael McCarthy represented Kahn Property Owner LLC. The application sought relief for parking buffer, hillside/steep slope area, and retaining walls to build a new multi-family residential building, described as the Residence at OHECA 2, a proposed 95-unit condominium on a 22.6-acre property zoned R20 and open-space cluster. - The agenda lists the property as 135 W. Gare Drive; the transcript identifies it as 135 Westgate Drive, commonly known as the OHICA Castle property. - McCarthy argued the board has interpretive authority under Huntington Town Code Section 198-42.1(I)(1) to find that the dimensional relief was already considered and approved when the town board adopted a local law on March 20, 2023, after a February 7, 2023 public hearing, with a SEQRA negative declaration. In the alternative, he requested relief for driveway and parking setbacks, hillside area relief under Section 198-6.1, and retaining walls ranging up to 12 feet. He also stated access is required to be through Eastgate Drive as a condition of the town board’s approval. - The board noted receiving one or two neighbor letters stating that any decision must be conditioned on project access through Eastgate Drive. - Public comment: John Armentano of Farrell Fritz, representing East Gate Drive Land LLC, owner of property directly north of the site, opposed the application as premature and unripe. He argued the applicant has never proven a prescriptive easement allowing 95 condominium units to use Eastgate Drive and a private spur; the access dispute is being litigated in bankruptcy court; New York case law does not allow prescriptive easements to be enlarged beyond their historic use; and a 2023 decision by Justice Hudson found the condominium use would likely exceed any such right. He also cited Whispering Pines v. Town of Queensbury and argued the board cannot ignore unresolved private access rights, and that one-year variances could expire during litigation. - The board chair stated that any approval would be 100 percent conditional on access through Eastgate Drive and the spur being resolved by court decision or negotiation. - McCarthy replied that the same access arguments were made to the planning board and town board in 2023, cited the presumption of hostility for open, notorious, continuous, and undisputed use, and asserted that the public has historically accessed the castle via Eastgate Drive and that the board has jurisdiction. - The board closed the public hearing and reserved decision; no vote was taken on this application. Other Business - ZBA 23573 — 181 Cubihill Road: The board agreed to amend a previously granted decision to explicitly reflect an approved nursery school use increase from 24 to 36 students, characterizing the omission as a scrivener’s error. - ZBA 23610 — Indoor children’s playground: The board considered a special use permit for a 2,640-square-foot indoor children’s playground in an existing shopping center. No parking relief was required, but expert testimony had been submitted. The SEQRA coordination waiting period had expired. The board adopted an omnibus motion with a negative declaration and granted the special use permit by a 7-0 vote. - Accessory Dwelling Unit applications: The board approved ADU-865 at 3 Fruitwood Lane, ADU-1816 at 3 Fire Light Court in Dix Hills, and ADU-1867 at 24 Prospect Road in Centerport. Based on hearing officer reports, none required additional variance or area relief, all were within the permitted accessory dwelling unit square footage, and none were in saturated zones. The approvals were referred to the building department and the Suffolk County Department of Health Services. Key Outcomes - Granted: Public Hearings 23629, 23627, 23622, 23605, 23625, 23604, and 23606. - Decision reserved: Public Hearing 23635, the OHICA Castle condominium application. - Amended prior decision for ZBA 23573 to include 36 students. - Granted ZBA 23610 by a 7-0 vote. - Approved three accessory dwelling unit applications. - The next Zoning Board of Appeals meeting was scheduled for March 5, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.

The Huntington Town Board convened on February 25, 2026 at 9:00 AM at Town Hall. Deputy Town Clerk Patrick Searing called the four public hearings and managed the proceedings in place of Town Clerk Andrew P. Raia. Councilwoman Hebert was absent due to jury duty; the supervisor noted she supported the resolutions in an honorary capacity. The board adopted four local laws amending Chapter 178 (Taxation), each by a vote of 4 ayes with Councilwoman Hebert absent. Public Hearings & Testimony - Four public hearings were held regarding Local Law Introductory Nos. 7-2026, 8-2026, 9-2026, and 10-2026. Affidavits of publication and posting in The Lawn Islander were submitted for each. - No members of the public spoke at any of the four public hearings. - The supervisor acknowledged receiving a message from "Ms. Tzola" thanking the board for the resolution concerning surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty; the board expressed support. Local Laws Adopted - Local Law Introductory No. 7-2026 (Resolution 2026-101): Amends Article XI of Chapter 178 to update qualifications for the volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers tax exemption. - Local Law Introductory No. 8-2026 (Resolution 2026-102): Adds Article XVII to Chapter 178 creating an Active Military Service Exemption. - Local Law Introductory No. 9-2026 (Resolution 2026-103): Amends Article I, §178-3, regarding the Senior Citizens Tax Exemption and enumerated exemptions/extensions. - Local Law Introductory No. 10-2026 (Resolution 2026-104): Adds Article XVI to Chapter 178 providing a tax exemption for surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty. Key Outcomes - All four resolutions were adopted unanimously by the four present board members (Councilwoman Hebert absent): 2026-101, 2026-102, 2026-103, and 2026-104. - The board then closed the meeting by motion and second, with all present voting aye.

The Town of Huntington Planning Board met on February 25, 2026, beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance and a pre-application appointment for the Estates at Elwood subdivision. The board also approved meeting minutes, a filing extension, a landscape bond, several subdivision actions, and a lot-line change. All motions carried without opposition as reflected in the transcript. Public Hearings & Appointments: Estates at Elwood - Attorney Michael McCarthy, representing Elwood Estates, and engineer Christopher Robinson presented two yield maps for a 55-acre property. The as-of-right yield analysis, based on the non-clustered map and a full steep-slope analysis, produced 46 fully conforming residential lots on Yield Map B, revised January 23, 2026, up from 44 lots. - McCarthy said the applicant has not yet applied for preliminary subdivision approval; the pre-application included a steep-slope analysis, yield analysis, and cluster map. The cluster option would preserve 21 acres of the steepest part of the property while allowing residential lots generally exceeding about half an acre. - McCarthy stated the applicant has no plan and no plan to make a plan for commercial development of two lots shown on Jericho Turnpike; the property remains R-40 residential, and the applicant is not seeking an endorsement of any commercial rezone during this application. - Board member Amendola said she is personally not in favor of the C6 zone change for the commercial piece and stressed that approving the yield map is not an endorsement of any commercial proposal. - McCarthy said the 21 acres may eventually be kept, dedicated to the Town, or dedicated to Suffolk County to add to adjacent Berkeley Jackson Park; the applicant hoped no additional park dedication would be required on top of the 21 acres. Amendola described the cluster outcome as the most benign and favorable compared with a development like Villa Dome. - In response to a letter from Patrick Deegan, the board raised the question of whether a nitrate-loading analysis showed the site can safely support 46 septic systems. Robinson answered that the Suffolk County Health Department nitrogen-loading standard for this property would allow one single-family home equivalent to 300 gallons per half acre, supporting 90 homes; the proposal would build 46, about half that number. - McCarthy recommended scheduling an additional public hearing on the expanded environmental assessment form before the board makes its state environmental review and SEQRA determination. He noted the applicant has engaged Nelson Pope and Voorhees and Carrie O'Farrell; the expanded EAF would resemble a draft EIS. A prior proposal for 385 condominium units had generated a draft EIS for the same property, but no findings were issued. Public Comments & Testimony - Patrick Deegan's February 25, 2026 letter of objection was received; it asked whether the nitrate-loading analysis had been performed to verify the site could safely support 46 septic systems without degrading the aquifer. - The Huntington Manor subdivision public hearing had no speakers, according to the chairman. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the February 4, 2026 Planning Board meeting were approved. - Filing time for the 770 Park Avenue plat was extended to June 1, 2026, a 90-day extension. - A landscape bond for Stone Ridge at Dix Hills III in the amount of $13,000.00 was accepted. Subdivisions - Map of Huntington Manor, Lots 40-43: Received conditional approval as an expedited three-lot subdivision on an existing filed map in Huntington Station, next to Columbia Street Park, after all town departments signed off. - Map of Cold Spring Hill Development, Lots 9-11 and parts of Lots 8 and 12: Introduced for a project. The owner proposes to split an oversized lot on Route 25A in Cold Spring Harbor into two conforming lots, with the new house accessed by a 15-foot shared private driveway as the DOT requested. The board noted the driveway was on the original filed map and cannot be dedicated to the Town. - 8 Ruth Plat: Granted preliminary approval after the applicant submitted a revised map showing street lights requested by the board, with the new light placed logically relative to an existing corner light. - Map of Greenlawn Center, Lots 14-23: Introduced. The application received area variances from the Zoning Board of Appeals for undersized lots in the R-40 zone; the planning board will process it as an expedited subdivision because it follows previously filed map lots. Lot Line Change - Tiziana Estates Lot Line Change: Approved to increase the size of previously approved lots in the Tiziana Estates subdivision. Key Outcomes - The board approved both Estates at Elwood yield maps, Map A and Map B, as meeting subdivision regulations and the R-40 zoning code; neither map shows commercial land. This allows the applicant to submit a preliminary subdivision application. - All listed resolutions and approvals carried without opposition on the record.

Councilwoman Teresa Maury hosted a special Black History Month conversation with Tracy Edwards, a longtime community leader and former elected official in Huntington. The interview focused on Edwards' family legacy of service, her own work as a councilwoman, and her current role as vice president of the New York State NAACP conference. No formal agenda, minutes, or votes were associated with this event. Interview Discussion - Councilwoman Maury opened by honoring Edwards' mother, Dolores D. Thompson, who founded the Huntington Station and Richmond Center and helped bring the Boys & Girls Club to Huntington Station. Edwards noted that service was not optional in her family; she was a candy striper at Huntington Hospital at age 14. - Edwards spoke about her children carrying forward the legacy: Walter serves as deputy highway superintendent for the Town of Huntington, Kimberly works in the district attorney's office, and Tyrrell is a discrimination investigator for the state. - Reflecting on her time as an elected official, Edwards highlighted a youth program in the South Huntington School District that taught photography, financial literacy, and golf, and also partnered with Homeland Security for emergency preparedness bags and Narcan training. She credited volunteers like Jim McGoldrick, who never missed a session in a year. - Edwards recently became vice president of the New York State NAACP conference and serves on the national board. She emphasized the importance of women, especially Black women, leading the way so that they are not "the last" in such positions. - When asked about her legacy, Edwards said she wishes to be known as "a person who helped others," citing the spray parks she helped bring to Huntington as a concrete example. She advised young people to listen more than they talk, build their personal brand, and be cautious on social media. She noted that just the day before the interview she had been at Tri-CYA with the Lions Club doing eye screenings, discovering two children who might have been mislabeled as learning disabled when they actually had eyesight challenges.

On February 18, 2026, Councilwoman Theresa Mari delivered a comprehensive address on human trafficking in the Town of Huntington, highlighting local cases, legislative actions, and community vigilance. Councilwoman’s Address - Councilwoman Mari stated that human trafficking is occurring in Huntington, not just elsewhere, and has been uncovered in local businesses such as hotels and foot spas. She described trafficking as modern-day slavery that thrives when people look the other way. - She detailed methods traffickers use: force, fraud, coercion, debt imposition, fraudulent employment, false promises, psychological coercion, and threats of violence. - The Town of Huntington works with the Suffolk County Police Department’s Second Precinct, participates in specialized briefings, and has passed legislation to dramatically increase fines on businesses and property owners that allow trafficking. - She cited a recent arrest in Huntington Station of a human trafficker linked to an international trafficking ring. - Councilwoman Mari listed signs the public should watch for: women closely monitored or unable to speak, excessive foot traffic at odd hours, businesses with locked doors or covered windows, cash-only policies, employees appearing fearful or controlled. She urged reporting to 911 for immediate danger or to Suffolk County Police for non-emergencies. - She quoted Edmund Burke: “The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good people to do nothing,” and reaffirmed the town’s commitment to using legislative, legal, and community tools to combat exploitation. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal decisions were taken; the address was an informational update and call to action. - The town continues its partnership with law enforcement and will enforce increased fines against businesses enabling trafficking.

Date: February 12, 2026 | Location: Town Board Room, Huntington, NY The Zoning Board of Appeals met to consider four applications for variances and special use permits, as well as miscellaneous business including an amendment to a prior decision and accessory apartment recommendations. The meeting opened with the swearing-in of new member Clem Cote, a real estate professional and former alternate on the Planning Board. The minutes from February 5, 2026, were approved with one abstention (Mr. Cote). Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Minutes of February 5, 2026, accepted with one correction and a vote of all in favor, one abstention (Clem Cote). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 23616 (50 Lawrence Hill Road): Two residents from Garden Court (Scott Krosky and Lucas Tapour) spoke, confirming that the application only seeks to legalize existing parking and structures, with no vehicle access from Garden Court and no expansion. They expressed support for the status quo. - A letter from a Garden Court resident regarding trash was read; the applicant’s attorney stated the owner already pays for cleanup services. Discussion Items Item 23631 – 1 Earl Road, Melville (Legalize existing deck) - Applicant/Representative: Ryan Brown (Breslin & Brown PC) for Charles Bonfante III. - Request: Side yard setback relief (0 ft where 2 ft required) for a deck built over 15 years ago around a pool. The deck height is 2 ft 10 in. The neighbor to the north submitted a letter of support. A pergola within the setback was already removed. - Board Discussion: No public opposition. The Board applied the five factors. - Outcome: Motion to grant by Mr. Castagna, seconded by Mr. Basso. Unanimously approved. Item 23620 – 6 Argyle Drive, Northport (Construct deck and pergola) - Applicant/Representative: Mary Ellen Curtis for Gerald and Denise Hovderstad. - Request: Front yard setback relief (17 ft requested, 20 ft required) for a second-story deck with pergola, both accessory structures. The property is in an R-5 zone, and the deck provides water views. The improvement is 21 ft 1 in wide and 12 ft 10 in deep, extending 3 ft into the setback. - Board Discussion: No public comments. The Board applied the five factors. - Outcome: Motion to grant by Mr. White, seconded by Mr. Capadano. Unanimously approved. Item 23621 – 31 Salem Ridge Drive, Huntington (Pool house and roofed patio) - Applicant/Representative: Joseph Walker (Double Check Builders) with owner Amy Sheehan. - Request: Accessory structure relief for a pool house with attached roofed-over patio: too close to property line and total square footage over limit. The existing foundation is being reused. The neighbor to the north provided a letter of support. The pool house complies with 82% of the side yard requirement; the seven-foot setback from the roofed patio was noted. - Board Discussion: No public opposition. The Board applied the five factors. - Outcome: Motion to grant by Mr. Capadano, seconded by Mr. Castagna. Unanimously approved. Item 23616 – 50 Lawrence Hill Road, Huntington (Legalize nursery school and parking) - Applicant/Representative: Ryan Brown for 50 Lawrence Hill Road LLC and 23 Garden Court LLC (owners of two tax parcels). Operator: Lisa Marie George (Ann Brower School). - Request: Multiple relief items: - Parking area setbacks (2.9 ft, 2.2 ft, 2.6 ft vs. 5 ft required) – under §198-48D. - Front yard setback (39.9 ft vs. 50 ft required) – under §198-15C. - Removal of condition requiring owner-occupancy – under §198-11 (modification of prior special use permit ZBA 14603). - More than one main building on a lot – under §198-10G. - Background: The school has operated since 1993 under a special use permit. The current owner purchased in 2015. All structures and parking areas existed as built; the parking area was expanded prior to 2001. The applicant seeks to legalize existing conditions, not expand. - Expert Testimony: - Wayne Muller (RM Engineering): Traffic assessment (letter dated Jan 29, 2026) found parking spaces are adequate and driveways operate acceptably; no traffic hazard expected. - Board Discussion: The Planning Board recommended a cross-access easement between the two parcels, which the applicant accepted. The Board confirmed no access from Garden Court. The applicant agreed to monitor trash along the fence line. - Outcome: Motion to grant all relief, including a negative declaration under SEQRA, by Mr. Castagna, seconded by Mr. McGrath. Unanimously approved. The special use permit was also granted. Other Business Before the Board Amendment of Prior Decision – ZBA 23445 (Abraham property) - Background: The Board had previously granted relief for accessory structures (shed, chicken coop, carport, cabana, and pergola) but the written decision inadvertently omitted the pergola. The applicant sought an amendment to include the pergola. - Board Discussion: The parcel is 2.47 acres (R-40 zone, one-acre minimum). The Board agreed the omission was inadvertent and saw no issue. - Outcome: The Board voted to amend the decision to include the pergola. Accessory Apartment Recommendations - Three ADU applications were reviewed by the Accessory Apartment Officer: - ADU 1931 – 9 Alma Lane, East Northport - ADU 1809 – 509 Eighth Avenue, East Northport - ADU 1959 – 883 Park Avenue, Huntington - Board Action: The Board determined that no variance relief is needed (no square footage or dimensional issues, not in saturated areas). They authorized sending the standard letter to the Building Department for normal processing, including referral to Suffolk County Department of Health Services. Key Outcomes - All four hearing applications were granted unanimously. - The prior decision (ZBA 23445) was amended to include the pergola. - Three accessory apartment recommendations were approved for referral to Building. - The meeting adjourned at approximately [time not specified]; next meeting scheduled for February 26, 2026, with eight or nine cases. Note: Two items on the agenda (23615 and 23608) were adjourned to March 26, 2026, and April 23, 2026, respectively, and were not heard.

The Town Board of Huntington held a workshop meeting on February 10, 2026, to review and add late-start resolutions, adopt an executive session agenda, and read through a comprehensive agenda of resolutions covering appointments, grants, contracts, public hearings, and other town business. The board also discussed and scheduled a public hearing for a special use permit application for Melville Crossing. Discussion Items - Addition of Five Late-Start Resolutions: The board voted to add the following late-start resolutions to the agenda: - Resolution 2026-91: Appointing a member to the Zoning Board of Appeals. - Resolution 2026-92: Appointing an alternate member to the Planning Board. - Resolution 2026-93: Authorizing an intermunicipal agreement with the Northport-East Northport Union Free School District. - Resolution 2026-94: Scheduling a public hearing under General Municipal Law 6F to authorize the Comptroller to appropriate funds from the Snow and Ice Reserve Fund. - Resolution 2026-95: Authorizing the Comptroller to amend the 2026 operating budget for the Town of Huntington and its special districts (General Services). - Executive Session Agenda: The board adopted the executive session agenda as read, which included items on a box report with Joe Macy (Suffolk County Working Waterfront Committee appointee) and self-serve gas pumps. - Resolution 89 – Melville Crossing Special Use Permit: The board discussed scheduling a public hearing for special use permit application MTCO-25-1 (Melville Crossing at 75 Maxis Road). After deliberation, the board agreed to set the hearing for March 19, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Huntington Town Hall. Councilwoman Hebert offered to sponsor the resolution, noting that it is contingent upon planning board involvement and ongoing negotiations with the school district. - Other Agenda Items: The board read through numerous resolutions, including: - Resolution 46: Authorizing the second annual LGBTQ+ Pride Flag Raising Ceremony at Heckscher Park on June 6, 2026 (sponsored by Councilwoman Maury). - Resolution 47: Establishing a Town of Huntington Climate Change Education and Engagement Program. - Resolution 77: Staying enforcement of Local Law 48-2024 (amending Chapter 141, Noise). - Resolution 78/79: Consideration of zone change and building code amendments. - Resolutions 80-88: Scheduling public hearings for March 10, 2026, on various topics including fire protection services, sports licenses, blighted properties, solid waste management, and traffic code amendments. - Resolution 76: Reappointing members to the Advisory Committee on Energy Efficiency, Renewables, and Sustainability (ACERS). Key Outcomes - Late-Start Resolutions Added: All five late-start resolutions (2026-91 through 2026-95) were added to the agenda by unanimous vote. - Executive Session Agenda Adopted: The executive session agenda was adopted as read. - Public Hearing Scheduled: The public hearing for Resolution 89 (Melville Crossing special use permit) was scheduled for March 19, 2026, at 6:00 PM, with Councilwoman Hebert as sponsor. - Motion to Close Workshop: The board voted to close the workshop and open executive session.

The Town of Huntington Town Board held a regular meeting on February 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Town Hall. The meeting featured presentations recognizing community members, two public hearings (one withdrawn), public comments from residents, and the unanimous adoption of over 40 resolutions, including a road dedication, grant applications, contract extensions, and scheduling of future public hearings. A special meeting was added for February 25, 2026, to consider tax exemptions for surviving spouses of police officers, senior citizens, volunteer firefighters, and active military members. Presentations - Steve Rossetti and Gershow Recycling: Recognized for community service and commitment to Huntington. Gershow Recycling, founded in 1964, employs over 400 Long Islanders and has invested approximately $90 million in environmental sustainability projects since 2005. - Bifolco Family and All Weather Tire: Recognized for over 40 years of service. Resolution 2026-40 was adopted unanimously to dedicate a portion of East 6th Street in Huntington Station in honor of Charles N. Bifulco. (Note: The supervisor verbally referenced Depot Road, but the agenda and resolution refer to East 6th Street.) - Pat Sorentino: Recognized for his community contributions and support to his brother, Highway Superintendent Andre Sorentino. Consent Calendar Routine resolutions were passed unanimously (5-0) as a block, including: - 2026-41: Grant application for Volunteer Fire Infrastructure & Response Equipment. - 2026-42: Grant application for Dix Hills Park improvements. - 2026-43: Extension to shellfish enhancement contract with Cornell Cooperative Extension. - 2026-44: Bus services contract with Huntington Coach Corp. - 2026-45: Summer food services extension with Florian Food Service, Inc. - 2026-46: Authorization for 2nd Annual LGBTQ+ Pride Flag Raising Ceremony on June 6, 2026. - 2026-47: Establishment of Climate Change Education and Engagement Program. - 2026-48: Application for Household Hazardous Waste State Assistance. - 2026-49 & 50: Grant applications for Zero Emissions Vehicle rebates and infrastructure. - 2026-51: Agreement with American Bocce Club for Mill Dam Park courts. - 2026-52: Software license agreement for Town Attorney’s Office. - 2026-53: Agreement with Town of Huntington Economic Development Corporation. - 2026-54 & 55: Cultural Affairs agreements and grant for Chapin Rainbow Outdoor Stage improvements. - 2026-56: Revised fee schedule for sports clubs and leagues. - 2026-57: Engineering design services extension for LIRR North Train Station Parking Garage repairs. - 2026-58: Pavement markings contract extension with Safety Marking, LLC. - 2026-59: Courier service contract for Tax Receiver’s Office. - 2026-60 & 61: Traffic control device agreements with Suffolk County at two locations on Townline Road. - 2026-62: Grant application for Mill Dam Marina (SAM Facilities Grant). - 2026-63: Software license amendment with Ekos, Inc. - 2026-64 & 65: Budget amendments for various departments and General Services. - 2026-66: Blighted property enforcement at 634 Caledonia Road, Dix Hills. - 2026-67: License agreement with Verizon Wireless. - 2026-68 & 69: Abandonment of portions of Catherine Street/Railroad Avenue (East Northport) and Washington Avenue (Dix Hills). - 2026-70: Appointment of Sabrina Mastriani as Deputy Comptroller. - 2026-71: Appointment of Alexandra Hoffman to Conservation Board. - 2026-72: Designation of Smith, Carroad, Wan & Parikh, P.C. for debt collection services. - 2026-73 & 74: Establishment and modification of Parks and Recreation fees. - 2026-75: Reappointments to Plumbing Advisory Board. - 2026-76: Reappointments to Advisory Committee on Energy Efficiency, Renewables & Sustainability (ACEERS). - 2026-77: Stay of enforcement of Local Law No. 48-2024 (Noise Ordinance). - 2026-78: Adoption of Local Law No. 30-2025 rezoning Nova Park from R-5 to R-3M Garden Apartment Special District. - 2026-79: Adoption of Local Law No. 31-2025 amending Building Construction Code on permits. - 2026-80 to 89: Scheduling public hearings for March 10, 2026 (various traffic and zoning items) and March 19, 2026 (Melville Crossing special use permit). - 2026-90: Extension of license agreement with Suffolk County for Coindre Hall. - 2026-91: Appointment to Zoning Board of Appeals (Clam Code). - 2026-92: Appointment of Greg Black as alternate to Planning Board. - 2026-93: Intermunicipal agreement with Northport-East Northport School District. - 2026-94: Budget amendment from Snow and Ice Reserve Fund. - 2026-95: Budget amendment for General Services. Public Hearings Public Hearing 1: Blighted Properties No public speakers. The hearing was closed. Public Hearing 2: Zone Change Application 2025-ZM-488 (B2K Starbucks/Retail at Melville) The applicant, B2K, seeks to rezone 1.81 acres at 937 and 945 Walt Whitman Road from R-40 and R-10 to C-6 General Business to build a Starbucks with drive-thru and additional retail. The plan was modified from a prior 2024 application: buffer increased to 30-35 feet, building moved 120 feet away from the sole residential neighbor, and drive-thru activity shifted to the east side. Suffolk County Planning Commission recommended approval. Supporters (7 speakers): - William Benesso (attorney for applicant) outlined the modifications and argued the property is unsuitable for residential use. - Tom Dixon (engineer) detailed buffer improvements and nitrogen reductions from proposed wastewater treatment (effluent <20 mg/L vs. existing 50 mg/L). - Michael Lynch (real estate appraiser) stated the rezoning will not harm property values and is appropriate for the corridor. - Patrick Lenahan (traffic engineer) said the site will not significantly impact Route 110 traffic; 84 parking spaces provided vs. demand of 45. - Nicole Grodner (Carpenters Union Local 290) supported job creation. - Aidan Cuthbertson (resident) noted the rezoning is logical given surrounding commercial uses. - Other supporters included Tim Tanzer, Dan Tanzer, Anthony Confredo (construction industry), Lenny Minervini, Scott Hoyle, Marguerite Bynum, Nicholas Cappadana, David Bloom, Dennis Pedro, and Gwendolyn James, citing convenience, jobs, and compatibility. Opponents (2 speakers): - Dorothy Fitzsimmons (adjacent property owner on Gwynne Road) argued that the proposed six-foot vinyl fence and 14-foot trees would not block her view (she is 27 feet above the site). She raised traffic safety concerns, noting the nearby Northern State Parkway ramps and existing backups, and presented a petition with 350 signatures. She noted that the owner of 945 Walt Whitman Road could reopen the driveway to Gwynne Road. - Scott Haleck (Sweet Hollow Civic Association) opposed the intensity of C6 zoning at this location, citing previous litigation where the town successfully defended against C1 zoning. He urged the board to vote rather than let the application expire. The hearing was closed. No vote was taken at this meeting. Public Hearing 3: Withdrawn by the applicant before advertising. Public Comments & Testimony - Sal D’Angelo: Requested the town adopt a resolution to raise the senior property tax exemption from 50% to 65% of assessed value (per new state law) and urged adoption of a local ordinance to restrict ICE operations, requiring judicial warrants and opposing 287(g) agreements. - Tor Vincent (commercial fishing advisory board member): Criticized the town’s online permit portal for IT issues and requested in-person permit processing options, especially for harbormaster permits. - Billy Roberti (ACEERS): Reported on the committee’s work, including $465,410 in green projects funded (LED lighting, EV chargers, living shoreline). He supported resolutions 2026-76, 2026-47, 2026-49, and 2026-50. - Lisa Tuzzolo (widow of fallen police officer Sgt. Paul Tuzzolo): Urged adoption of NYS Law S 683A to provide property tax exemptions for surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty. She spoke from personal experience. Following her testimony, the board added late-starter resolutions to schedule hearings on tax exemptions for surviving spouses, senior citizens, volunteer firefighters/ambulance workers, and active military members. - Greg Mazzola (landscaper): Opposed the gas-powered leaf blower ban (Local Law 48-2024, whose enforcement was stayed by Resolution 2026-77). He cited high costs of battery equipment (over $11,000 per truck), reduced performance, and safety concerns with lithium batteries. He suggested a compromise allowing gas blowers during spring/fall cleanup. - Johanna Suchow (former assistant town attorney): Questioned the town board’s resolution granting lifetime medical insurance to elected officials after only six years of service and six years of age 55 (or 50 for pre-August 2020 employees). She requested an actuarial analysis and criticized the elimination of dedicated legislative aides. - Joan Sergle (former councilwoman): Joined Suchow in urging restoration of legislative aides. She and Heather Ornett offered to volunteer as aides to Councilwoman Hebert. - Heather Ornett (executive director, Heckscher Museum of Art): Reported the museum nearly doubled visitorship to 40,000 in the past year, served 7,000 students from 100 schools, and presented the Emma Stebbins retrospective. She thanked the town for support. - Amy Morgolis (resident): Requested repaving of Dix Hills Road north of Jericho Turnpike, citing dangerous potholes and cracks. She submitted 75 signatures. - Thomas Martin (resident): Opposed the leaf blower ban, stating gas-powered blowers are more practical than battery-powered for heavy leaf cleanup. Discussion Items - Melville Crossing Public Hearing (Resolution 2026-89): Councilman Bernardo noted ongoing dialogue between the developer (Steel Equities) and the school district, assuring robust planning board involvement. Councilwoman Hebert stated she will vote for the hearing to allow public input. The resolution passed 5-0. - Noise Ordinance Stay (Resolution 2026-77): Councilwoman Hebert expressed desire to work with landscapers and the public to find a workable solution. The stay was adopted 5-0. Key Outcomes - All resolutions were adopted unanimously (5-0), including the late-starter resolutions added during the meeting: - 2026-97: Schedule public hearing for March 10, 2026 on volunteer firefighter/ambulance worker tax exemption. - 2026-98: Schedule public hearing for March 10, 2026 on active military service tax exemption. - 2026-99: Schedule public hearing for March 10, 2026 on senior citizens tax exemption (increase to 65%). - 2026-100: Schedule a special town board meeting on February 25, 2026 at 9:00 AM to conduct hearings on the above tax exemptions. - 2026-101: Schedule public hearing for February 25, 2026 on tax exemption for surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty. - The board also adopted late-starter resolutions 2026-96 (police surviving spouses hearing) through 2026-101, all with unanimous votes. Key Outcomes - All 40+ resolutions on the agenda, including late starters, passed unanimously (5-0). - The road dedication for Charles N. Bifulco (East 6th Street) was approved. - The enforcement of the noise ordinance (leaf blower ban) was stayed pending further discussion. - A special meeting was scheduled for February 25, 2026 at 9:00 AM in Town Hall to adopt local laws granting tax exemptions to surviving spouses of police officers, senior citizens (up to 65% assessed value), volunteer firefighters/ambulance workers, and active military members, before the March 1, 2026 state deadline. - Public hearings were scheduled for March 10, 2026 (2:00 PM) on multiple traffic and zoning matters, and for March 19, 2026 (6:00 PM) on the Melville Crossing special use permit. - The public hearing on the B2K Starbucks zone change was closed; no immediate vote was taken.

The Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Huntington met on February 5, 2026, to hear two public hearings and three other matters. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and unanimous approval of the minutes from January 22, 2026. The board granted one special use permit amendment, reserved decision on another, and approved two additional applications for outdoor storage and a gym relocation with parking variances. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from January 22, 2026, were approved unanimously on a motion by Mr. McGrath, seconded by Mr. Castagna, with no corrections or additions. Public Comments & Testimony - ZBA 23603 – Dick’s Sporting Goods Storage Containers: A member of the public commented about young people hanging out in the area near the storage containers, but stated the issue was unrelated to the containers themselves. The board noted this was a police matter and did not affect the application. Discussion Items - Public Hearing 23573 – Domenica Palisciano / 181 Cuba Hill Road LLC: The applicant sought to amend Condition 6 of prior grant 22485 to increase the permitted number of children at the daycare facility from 24 to 36. Attorney Tom Abate and traffic expert Thomas Mazzola presented testimony that the increase would not adversely impact traffic or parking, as the facility is overparked and operates with staggered schedules. No public opposition was heard. - Public Hearing 23610 – Francesca Chang / Kidropolis: The applicant requested a Special Use Permit to establish a 2,640 sq. ft. indoor children’s playground (commercial place of recreation) at 1730-1740 Jericho Turnpike in Dix Hills. Attorney Tom Abate presented testimony from traffic expert Ethan Shikoski (who observed similar facilities and found minimal traffic and parking impact – parking lot observed at 43% occupancy during peak, projected 70% with the new use) and real estate expert Michael Lynch (who opined the shopping center needs revitalization and the use would not adversely affect the neighborhood). No public comments were received. The board closed the hearing but reserved decision for two weeks due to legal notice requirements. - Other Matters – ZBA 23603 – Dick’s Sporting Goods: The board considered a Special Use Permit under Code Section 198-11C4 to legalize two existing outdoor storage containers (approximately 320 sq. ft. each) at the Dick’s Sporting Goods store on Jericho Turnpike in Commack. The applicant made their case on the record. Discussion occurred regarding a possible condition for dark-sky compliant lighting; the board ultimately decided not to require it, leaving it to the applicant’s discretion. A motion to grant with an omnibus SEQR negative declaration was made and seconded; the motion passed (one board member appeared to abstain or oppose, but the outcome was approval). - Other Matters – ZBA 23609 – Gym Relocation at 234 New York Avenue: The applicant, Mr. Brown, sought a parking variance of 31-33 spaces to relocate an existing gym from 231 to 234 New York Avenue. Testimony established that gym membership would not increase, and parking expert Mr. Muller testified that sufficient on-street parking was available (105 spaces observed at peak times). The board discussed the history of prior variances on adjacent properties, noting that the requested variance was reasonable and the gym would otherwise be unable to operate. A motion to grant with an omnibus SEQR negative declaration was made, seconded, and approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Public Hearing 23573 (181 Cuba Hill Road): Approved unanimously. Motion by Mr. McGrath, second by Mr. Castagna. The board issued a negative declaration under SEQR and granted the amendment to increase the occupancy from 24 to 36 children, with all other conditions unchanged. - Public Hearing 23610 (Kidropolis): Decision reserved. The hearing was closed; the board will issue a decision in approximately two weeks (by February 19, 2026). - ZBA 23603 (Dick’s Sporting Goods): Approved. Motion carried (one board member appeared to record a “post” or abstention, but the application was granted). No specific conditions added regarding lighting. - ZBA 23609 (Gym Relocation): Approved unanimously. Motion by Mr. Castagna, second by Mr. McGrath. Parking variance of 31-33 spaces granted as part of the Special Use Permit.