Public Meetings - Huntington, New York

The Zoning Board of Appeals for the Town of Huntington met on January 22, 2026, to conduct multiple public hearings on variance and special use permit requests, including a contentious application for a gym parking variance. The board also approved several routine items and extensions. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board unanimously approved the minutes from January 8, 2026 (motion by Mr. McGrath, second by Mr. Castagna) and from January 15, 2026 (motion by Mr. Basso, second by Mr. Capodanno). Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing 23603 (Dick’s Sporting Goods – Storage Containers): Robert Gerardi, a resident of 2 Arrow Place, opposed the special use permit to legalize two existing storage containers at 5900-6060 Jericho Turnpike, Commack. He stated that the containers create a space where people sleep, hang out, and engage in unsavory activities, and that the store manager was aware of issues for five years. He noted a homeless person had camped there, and that police were called but could not force removal. He expressed that the containers are an attractive nuisance and that lighting is poor. - Public Hearing 23609 (Energy Fitness Gym – Parking Variance): Multiple residents of Lake Place and Gibson Avenue spoke in opposition to the requested 33-space parking variance for a gym relocation at 234 New York Avenue, Huntington. Lisa Fashilla (40 Gibson Avenue) argued that 33 additional spots would be an excessive burden on the residential neighborhood, as parking is already limited. James Telling Doe (18 Lake Place) noted a recent increase in parking due to a Pilates studio and brewery, and expressed safety concerns for children at bus stops. Linda Deanna (14 Lake Place) stated that daily parking difficulties have worsened, with cars parked on both sides of the street, impeding emergency vehicles and endangering pedestrians, including her special needs child. Camilla Deanna (14 Lake Place) described the difficulty of finding parking as a resident, noting that safety issues have become routine. Tracy Taliento (18 Lake Place) reported an incident where a driver rear-ended a neighbor’s car while maneuvering, and emphasized that the morning gym peak (8-10 a.m.) coincides with children waiting for school buses. Luca Diana (14 Lake Place) echoed concerns about street congestion and safety. Discussion Items - Public Hearing 23617 (139 11th Avenue – Accessory Structure): The hearing was adjourned to March 26, 2026, at the applicant’s request. No testimony or discussion. - Public Hearing 23603 (Dick’s Sporting Goods – Storage Containers): Attorney Michael McCarthy for the applicant explained that the two 320 sq. ft. storage containers are used for inventory (large bulk items like kayaks, treadmills) and are locked at night, well-lit, and monitored. He noted that he received one call from a neighbor opposed, but the landlord and store manager were unaware of ongoing issues. Traffic consultant Wayne Muller and engineer Chris Robinson submitted reports. The board discussed installing motion sensor lights as a deterrent. The hearing was closed, and decision reserved for two weeks. - Public Hearing 23579 (126 Cuba Hill Road – Front Porch Relief): Attorney Abbate for Joseph Iaquinto explained that a pre-existing non-conforming house (built before 1934) had been granted setback relief in 2023 for a subdivision. The building department now disputes the front yard setback dimension, claiming 8.83 ft instead of the granted 14.7 ft. The applicant seeks front yard relief to legalize the existing porch. No public comment. The board noted the porch has existed for a long time and that the issue is a condition precedent for site plan approval. Motion to grant by Ms. Whelan, second by Mr. Castagna; unanimously approved. - Public Hearing 23619 (1083 Westminster Avenue – Side Yard Relief): Michael Elkins (former owner) and new owner Sukhpreet Kaur requested side yard relief to legalize an existing two-story addition built approximately 23 years ago. The addition requires a 25-ft side setback but current condition has existed without complaints. No public comment. Motion to grant by Mr. Basso, second by Mr. White; unanimously approved. - Public Hearing 23611 (14 Estate Circle – Retaining Wall Relief): Attorney Michael McCarthy for Jill Cruz and Angela Vicari requested variances for retaining wall square footage (2,276 sq. ft. proposed vs. 791.47 allowed) and setback (7 ft proposed vs. 10 ft required) for a pool and patio. The property is 0.77 acres in an R-80 zone due to equestrian land preservation, creating non-conformity. The walls are only 4-5 ft high. A neighbor (Driftwood Day Camp) provided a letter of support. No public comments. The board acknowledged the need due to lot size. Motion to grant by Mr. Castagna, second by Ms. Whelan; unanimously approved. - Public Hearing 23503 (20 Woodedge Drive – Accessory Garage Relief): Attorney Ryan Brown for Viviani Lopes Boggio requested variances for a 748 sq. ft. detached garage (reduced from 936 sq. ft.), a 1-inch height variance (20 ft 1 in vs. 20 ft allowed), and a retaining wall setback of 0 ft (10 ft required). The attached garage will be converted to living space, reducing total garage stalls from five to three. The retaining wall is on the opposite side of the property, and the neighbor signed a boundary line agreement and supports the project. No public comment. Motion to grant by Mr. Capodanno, second by Mr. White; unanimously approved. - Public Hearing 23609 (Energy Fitness Gym – Parking Variance): Attorney Keith Brown for applicant Michael Tucci (Energy Fitness) requested a parking variance of 33 spaces (reduced from 39) to relocate the existing gym from 224 to 234 New York Avenue. The subject property (7,647 sq. ft.) has no on-site parking and was formerly an Oriental rug store. The gym is a boutique facility catering to local residents. The rooftop amenity was withdrawn. Traffic expert Wayne Muller testified that the gym's peak hours (6:30-10:30 a.m.) are before village parking demand peaks, and that the adjacent municipal lot (430 ft away) gained 30 spaces after the Chase Bank demolition. He argued that moving the gym 100 ft south makes parking on Lake Place less attractive. The board noted that any use of the building would require a parking variance due to its age and lack of parking, and that a restaurant would require 154 spaces. The applicant offered a gentleman’s agreement for employee parking at the Burger King across the street. The hearing was closed; decision reserved for two weeks. Key Outcomes - Approved Unanimously: - Public Hearing 23579 (126 Cuba Hill Road): Front yard relief to legalize existing porch. - Public Hearing 23619 (1083 Westminster Avenue): Side yard relief to legalize second-story addition. - Public Hearing 23611 (14 Estate Circle): Retaining wall square footage and setback relief. - Public Hearing 23503 (20 Woodedge Drive): Garage footprint, height (1-inch), and retaining wall setback relief. - Decisions Reserved: - Public Hearing 23603 (Dick's Sporting Goods): Board will decide in two weeks; potential condition of motion sensor lights. - Public Hearing 23609 (Energy Fitness Gym): Board will decide in two weeks. - Adjourned: Public Hearing 23617 (139 11th Avenue) to March 26, 2026. - Extensions Granted: - ZBA 23094 (Salem Abraham – house of worship conversion): One-year extension to July 2026 (grant expired July 2024). - ZBA 23394 (Goldstein – restaurant parking relief): One-year extension to 2027 (grant not yet expired). - Preliminary Approvals: Two accessory apartment applications (ADU 1675, 11 Mara Road; ADU 693, 98 Lennox Road) received standard preliminary letters of approval subject to Suffolk County Health Department review. - Next Meeting: Thursday, February 5, 2026.

This meeting of the Huntington Planning Board covered routine approvals, two site plans, a subdivision, and four Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) referrals. With only four board members present, all votes required unanimous participation. The board approved minutes, bond extensions, and one subdivision, while discussing architecture, landscaping, and zoning recommendations for commercial properties. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes from the January 7, 2026 Planning Board meeting and the December 3, 2025 public hearing for the 8 Ruth Plat. The minutes for the Map of Huntington Manor Section A, Lots 40-43 public hearing from December 3, 2025 were tabled to the next meeting. - Performance Bond Extensions: Approved one-year extensions for three bonds: 46 Dunlop Road Plat (to 12/23/2026 nunc pro tunc), 570 Park Avenue Perf Bond Monument & Demolition (to 2/9/2027), and Map of Darren Malcolm Plat (to 2/20/2027). Board member Judge Lipson noted concerns about the lack of justification for extensions, but staff indicated that new information forms are being sent out to improve future submittals. Discussion Items - Cold Spring Country Club Pickleball Courts (SP-25-10030): The club installed three pickleball courts without prior planning board approval and removed several trees along Green Meadow Lane, eliminating a visual buffer. The board reviewed a proposed landscape plan with evergreen shrubs and deciduous trees to replace the lost buffer. The board found the plan adequate and approved the site plan unanimously. - 790 New York Avenue (SP-25-?): This existing medical office building will add residential apartments on the second floor. The board reviewed the proposed architectural changes, which replace strip windows with residential-style windows and introduce metal panels and horizontal siding to break up the stucco facade. The board expressed consensus that the architecture is an improvement; formal approval of the architectural plan was given, while the landscape plan will be reviewed later during site plan review. - 15 Hart Place Subdivision: A two-lot subdivision on a flag lot in Dix Hills. The board granted conditional final approval after the applicant responded to all staff and departmental comments. A letter from the applicant requesting early land clearing due to northern long-eared bat concerns was discussed; the town’s environmental reviewer confirmed the site is outside the bat zone, so no winter clearing restriction applies. Clearing may begin after the final subdivision map is signed and permits are filed. - ZBA Referral 1 – Anne Brower School (ZBA 23616): The school seeks variances to remove a residential occupancy requirement for the operator, legalize parking lot expansions, and address a front yard setback. The staff recommended no objection, but noted a cross-access agreement is needed instead of a parcel merger, and a landscape plan should buffer neighboring residential properties. The board concurred with these conditions. - ZBA Referral 2 – 40 Marcus Drive (ZBA 23568): An industrial site installed a third monument sign without permits. The board had no issue with the signs but noted dumpsters lack proper masonry enclosures and landscaping has deteriorated. The board recommended a simple site plan to address these issues. - ZBA Referral 3 – 200 Carver Street (ZBA 23633): An existing office building in an R5 zone seeks a variance for a 46-square-foot addition (parking) and a monument sign. The board recommended limiting the sign to 20 square feet (maximum for residential zones) and requiring landscaping. The board also noted that the final sign design should be reviewed by the Huntington Historical Preservation Commission. - ZBA Referral 4 – 185 New York Avenue (Dough E Fresh) (ZBA 23644): A pizzeria conversion seeks a special use permit for outdoor dining. The staff initially recommended limiting outdoor dining to the front area due to parking constraints. After discussion, the board expressed support for the business and consensus to modify the recommendation to no objection to the special use permit as requested, leaving the amount of outdoor dining to the ZBA’s discretion. Board members preferred rear yard seating over sidewalk seating. Key Outcomes - Minutes: Approved for Jan 7 and Dec 3 (8 Ruth Plat); tabled for Dec 3 (Huntington Manor). - Bond Extensions: Approved unanimously for three properties. - Cold Spring Country Club Pickleball Courts: Site plan approved with required landscaping. - 790 New York Avenue: Architectural plan approved; landscape plan deferred. - 15 Hart Place: Conditional final subdivision approval granted; clearing allowed after final map signing. - ZBA Referrals: Board issued recommendations as summarized above, with modifications for Anne Brower School (cross-access agreement), 200 Carver Street (sign limit and landscaping), and 185 New York Avenue (supportive recommendation without restrictions).

The Huntington Zoning Board of Appeals met on January 15, 2026, to consider several variance applications, including residential additions, a mixed-use redevelopment, and new commercial tenants in the Elwood Shopping Center. The meeting began with a welcome back to board member Al White after heart surgery. Two items were withdrawn or adjourned, and three accessory dwelling unit approvals were handled under other business. All applications on the agenda were granted, with public comment heard from one resident. Public Comments & Testimony - Robert Lamonte, a frequent visitor to the Elwood Shopping Center, expressed concerns about traffic safety at the intersection of Jericho Turnpike and Elwood Road. He noted that the exit from the shopping center onto Jericho Turnpike involves crossing multiple lanes and a median, and that drivers often speed. He questioned whether signage was adequate to prevent left turns and whether the additional traffic from the proposed uses would exacerbate the situation. Discussion Items - Application 23598 – 20 Grace Park Drive, Commack (James Cressy): Applicant requested side yard relief (required 7 ft, existing 5.2 ft for a sunroom) and yard modification for pool equipment (required 5 ft, existing 4 ft). The pool was installed incorrectly based on a fence line. No public opposition. The board noted the minimal encroachments and granted the application. - Application 23602 – 12 Seaside Court, Northport (Osmar Martinez Suarez, architect for owners): Requested front yard relief on a corner lot for a 303 sq ft addition (required 30 ft front yard, proposed 24.84 ft). The property overlooks Crab Meadow Golf Course. No public opposition. Board granted the application. - Application 23595 – 89 Lone Oak Drive, Centerport (Michael Arato, Captain Permit): Requested side yard and modification relief to legalize an existing deck (setbacks of 1.4 ft and 1 ft vs. required 5 ft). The deck existed since 2002; the neighbor at 93 Lone Oak Drive submitted a letter of no objection. The board noted heavy foliage between properties and granted the application. - Application 23477 – 149 Depot Road, Huntington Station (Attorney Thomas Abbate for Michael Grigoraki): Requested depth extension, multiple buildings, buffer, and parking relief to renovate two existing structures into mixed-use buildings with two apartments and commercial space. The same variances were granted in 2015 but never perfected. The applicant sought removal of a prior condition limiting commercial uses to "dry uses" to allow food shops (e.g., bagel store, coffee shop). Traffic consultant Wayne Muller and a real estate expert were available but not called. Planning board concerns about a parking stall conflict were deferred to site plan approval. The board granted the application with a negative declaration under SEQRA. - Application 23607 – Elwood Shopping Center (Pilar coffee bar, Attorney Michael McCarthy): Requested a variance to allow a restaurant use (luxury coffee bar/gelato) that would increase the percentage of restaurant space in the shopping center from 10% to 14.88%. Traffic consultant Wayne Muller testified that a comprehensive traffic impact analysis showed ample parking and no negative effect. The board noted similar variances granted at other centers. Granted. - Application 23634 – Elwood Shopping Center (Little Lux Playhouse, Attorney Tara Visconti): Requested a special use permit for a children's recreation center, a parking variance (412 spaces exist vs. 444 required), and continuation of outdoor storage containers (belonging to other tenants). The playhouse is reservation-only, with fixed sessions and adult supervision. Traffic analysis showed de minimis impact. The board granted the application. Key Outcomes - Application 23598 granted unanimously on motion by Ms. Whalen, seconded by Mr. Castagna. - Application 23602 granted unanimously on motion by Mr. Basso, seconded by Mr. White. - Application 23595 granted unanimously on motion by Mr. Castagna, seconded by Mr. McGrath. - Application 23477 granted unanimously on omnibus motion (negative declaration and variance) by Mr. McGrath, seconded by Ms. Whalen. The condition limiting commercial uses to dry uses was removed. - Application 23607 granted unanimously on motion by Mr. Castagna, seconded by Mr. Basso. - Application 23634 granted unanimously on motion by Mr. Cappadano, seconded by Ms. Whalen. - Other Business: Three accessory dwelling unit applications (ADU 1419 at 31 Oakledge Dr., ADU 1725 at 10 Colony Ct., ADU 1810 at 28 Cherry St.) were approved as no variances were required, subject to Suffolk County Department of Health Services review. - The meeting was adjourned to January 22, 2026.

The Huntington Zoning Board of Appeals convened on January 8, 2026, at 11:15 AM (actual start time not specified) to conduct seven public hearings on variance and special use permit requests, along with several administrative matters. All hearings were granted, most by unanimous vote, with one conditional approval. No public comments were made from the audience. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the December 11, 2025 meeting after corrections were noted. (Motion by Mr. McGrath, second by Mr. Basso; all in favor.) - Publications: The chair confirmed that all required postings and publications were completed to establish jurisdiction for the evening’s hearings. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during any of the hearings. The chair noted for each application that no one wished to be heard from the audience. Discussion Items Public Hearing 23600 – 491 Clay Pitts Road, East Northport (Carol Lopicich) - Applicant: Carol Lopicich, owner. - Request: Variance to legalize existing swimming pool equipment located 2.2 feet from the property line (required 5 feet) due to a fencing error that placed the equipment too close. - Outcome: Board found this to be a minor application. Granted unanimously. (Motion by Ms. Whalen, second by Mr. Capitano.) Public Hearing 23599 – 390 Broadway, Greenlawn (Kayne Labissiere) - Representative: Ryan Brown (Breslin & Brown PC). - Request: Side yard, combined side yard, and accessory structure relief to construct a second-story addition (within existing footprint) and legalize an existing shed. The lot is substandard due to a 1943 upzone from R5 to R40. Previous 1986 variance (ZBA 11980) granted more generous side yards than currently requested. - Outcome: Granted unanimously. (Motion by Mr. Basso, second by Mr. McGrath.) Public Hearing 23592 – 2 Cousins Street, Northport (Michael A. Daccordo & Mary Patricia G. Theofield) - Representative: Mary Ellen Curtis. - Request: Front, rear, and side yard relief to construct a first-floor addition (91 sq ft dining area expansion, 361 sq ft garage, 535 sq ft for two bedrooms and a bath). Lot is in an R40 zone (formerly R10). Three neighboring letters of support were submitted. - Outcome: Granted unanimously. (Motion by Mr. Capitano, second by Mr. Basso.) Public Hearing 23591 – 410 Harrison Drive, Centerport (Michelle Meehan Family Trust) - Representative: Ryan Brown. - Request: Long street side yard and rear yard relief to legalize an existing one-story addition (built between 1978-1984) and a front yard deck/porch constructed by a contractor mistakenly. The lot is in an R7 zone in the “President’s Streets” area. A petition of support from neighbors was submitted. - Outcome: Granted unanimously. (Motion by Ms. Whalen, second by Mr. Basso.) Public Hearing 23582 – 32 West 11th Street, Huntington Station (Roxanna Trela, Dynamic Expediting Services, for owner Mirian Alfaro) - Representative: Roxanna Trela. - Request: Front yard and long street side yard relief to legalize an existing enclosed porch converted to living space and an existing rear addition (both present since at least 1970). The front porch conversion had been previously approved in February 2023 (ZBA 22309) but not finalized due to financial hardship. - Outcome: Granted unanimously. (Motion by Mr. Basso, second by Mr. Capitano.) Public Hearing 23585 – 87 Old Country Road, Melville (Paul Curcio, Chris Garten Architects, for owner Fiona Fernandez) - Representative: Paul Curcio. - Request: Accessory structure relief to construct a detached one-story barn with greenhouse (1,546 sq ft) in an R80 zone. Relief needed for cumulative accessory floor area (2,071 sq ft allowed 900 sq ft) and building height (23.33 ft allowed 20 ft). Existing two-car garage (525 sq ft) remains. The barn would replace an existing shed; no cars intended to be stored. The property is uniquely isolated, bordered by West Hills County Park and without close neighbors. - Board Consideration: Chair expressed concern about potential vehicle storage and proposed a condition limiting on-site vehicle storage to a maximum of four vehicles (total of all garage bays). The applicant’s representative agreed. - Outcome: Granted with condition of no more than four vehicles stored on the property across all garage bays. (Motion by Mr. Basso, second by Ms. Whalen.) Public Hearing 23566 – 145-149 West Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station (Harry Zolotas, owner/applicant) - Representative: Attorney Tom Abati. - Request: Special Use Permit to establish an automotive engine repair shop (not body shop) in a formerly vacant building (last use: Hertz rental). Relief needed: business depth extension (C6/residential split zone – previously granted in 1956 under ZBA 1681), off-street parking variance (10 spaces provided vs. 14 required), overnight outdoor vehicle storage (53 spaces in two rear lots), and setback/landscaping buffer waiver for the east side (adjacent to fully developed shopping center). Traffic expert Wayne Muller and real estate expert Paul Dykes submitted reports and testified that the use would have no significant impact. - Board Discussion: The applicant noted no expansion of building footprint, removal of existing pylon sign, and hours aligned with neighboring Cavalier Autobody (Mon-Fri 7am-5pm, Sat 9am-1pm). - Outcome: Granted with a negative declaration under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA). The omnibus motion included all relief requested. (Motion by Ms. Whalen, second by Mr. Basso.) Other Business – ZBA 14249 (Restaurant Kitchen Expansion) - Ryan Brown requested on behalf of a prior client (restaurant relief) to expand kitchen and add accessible bathroom without changing seating or parking. Board determined no additional hearing necessary because the expansion does not alter the previously granted relief. Other Business – ZBA 22778 (Retaining Wall Encroachment) - A condition from a prior decision required a boundary line agreement for retaining walls. The applicant’s architect discovered de minimis encroachments: 2.2 sq ft of wall (2.6 ft over line) and 0.5 sq ft (0.4 ft over line). One encroachment is on school property. Board agreed to rescind the condition given the negligible impact and the fact that the school is not subject to the board’s jurisdiction. Other Business – Change of Zone at 3124-3126 East Jericho Turnpike - Notification received under SEQRA coordination. Board voted to defer to the Planning Board and Town Board, taking no action at this time. Other Business – ZBA 23533 (Retaining Wall Square Footage Error) - An apparent miscalculation: originally allowed 36 sq ft of retaining walls, but actual construction is 1,568 sq ft. Engineering confirmed error. Board declined to amend the decision on the spot due to the significant discrepancy, and adjourned the item to the next meeting (January 15, 2026) for further review. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Approvals - Three ADU applications were reviewed (176 Kate Drive ADU 1667, 120 Greenlawn Road ADU 1803, 7 Walwin Place ADU 233-377). Board found no need for relief regarding lot size, parking, or apartment size. The 7 Walwin Place property is under code enforcement monitoring for a prior home office, but that does not affect the ADU. Board authorized sending standard preliminary approval letters with a referral to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services for septic system review. Key Outcomes - All seven public hearing applications were granted, as follows: - 23600 (pool equipment) – Unanimous. - 23599 (second story & shed) – Unanimous. - 23592 (first-floor addition & garage) – Unanimous. - 23591 (existing addition & deck) – Unanimous. - 23582 (porch conversion & addition) – Unanimous. - 23585 (detached barn) – Unanimous with condition of max four vehicles on property. - 23566 (auto repair shop) – Unanimous with SEQRA negative declaration. - No second hearing needed for restaurant kitchen expansion (ZBA 14249). - Condition rescinded for retaining wall encroachment (ZBA 22778). - Deferred change of zone notification to Planning Board and Town Board. - Adjourned retaining wall square footage error (ZBA 23533) to January 15, 2026. - Preliminary approval letters authorized for three ADU applications. - The next meeting was announced for January 15, 2026.

The Huntington Planning Board met on January 7, 2026, to approve minutes and a filing extension, discuss architectural plans, amend a subdivision covenant, deny a street lighting waiver, and provide recommendations on five zoning board referrals. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and adjourned after all items were addressed. Consent Calendar - Minutes (December 17, 2025): Motion by Mrs. Amendola, second by Mr. Tantillo. Approved with one abstention (Mr. Cote). - Extension of Filing Time – 67 Norton Drive Plat: Motion by Mr. Becker, second by Mr. Bontepe. Extended to April 8, 2026, approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Site Plan 1 – 1044 New York Avenue (2023 Item 1): Discussion of proposed architecture for a three-story building with commercial ground floor and apartments above. Board members suggested adding windows on the side facing Henry Street for safety and aesthetics. Staff described materials: brick facade on ground floor, hardiplank cement fiber siding on upper floors, consistent with neighboring developments. The applicant will provide revised drawings; no vote taken. - Subdivision 1 – Woodhull Plat (Resolution to Amend Covenant): Amendment to replace a berm requirement with a retaining wall maintenance covenant. The new covenant states two property owners with the retaining wall will share ownership and maintenance. Motion by Mrs. Amendola, second by Mr. Bontepe. Approved. - Subdivision 2 – 8 Ruth Plat (Waiver of Street Lighting): Discussion of a request to waive street lighting. The street lighting department recommended denial, citing safety for pedestrians (since no sidewalks) and that the dark sky ordinance prevents neighbor disturbance. Board agreed to deny the waiver. - Lot Line Change 1 – Galioto: Introduction of a project to adjust lot lines between two existing houses. The smaller lot (non-conforming) will purchase land from an oversized neighbor to meet minimum lot size. The purchase parcel is 37.3 feet wide, requiring a variance for lot width and frontage from the Zoning Board. Staff noted no new construction is proposed. No vote; will return after ZBA action. - Zone Change 1 – 50 Woodbury Road: Pulled from the agenda. Zoning Board Referrals - ZBA 23477 – 149 Depot Road (Michael Grigoraki): Two existing buildings; rear garage to be converted to commercial use. Variances sought for two buildings on a lot, small depth extension, and parking buffer. Staff recommended approval. Board consensus to support. - ZBA 23573 – 181 Cuba Hill Road (Domenica Palisciano): Existing daycare seeking to increase occupancy from 24 to 36 children. No exterior changes proposed. Staff noted this is a zoning board issue; applicant must address state staffing requirements. Board agreed. - ZBA 23610 – Francesca Chang: Interior alterations to former salon for children's play area/party center. No exterior changes. Staff flagged that a required traffic study may not meet the zoning board's standards. Board acknowledged. - ZBA 23606 – 191 East Second Street (Jeffrey Littell): Vacant industrial site (former pallet storage, damaged by fire). Proposes new building with outdoor storage and overnight parking in front. Staff suggested better design would place parking and storage behind the building. Board decided to table the recommendation for two weeks to allow applicant to consider alternative designs before the ZBA hearing on February 26. - ZBA 23635 – Kahn Property Owner LLC (Residences at OHA): Proposed residential condominium adjacent to Oheka Castle. Requesting relief for a second primary building on one lot and retaining walls exceeding four feet. Board supported the relief but recommended that any approval include a covenant ensuring the existing Oheka catering hall, hotel, and restaurant remain open to the general public. No objections. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (1 abstention) and filing extension granted. - Woodhult covenant amended; 8 Ruth street lighting waiver denied. - 191 East Second Street recommendation tabled for further discussion. - All other ZBA referrals received board support or acknowledgment as discussed.

The Town Board met on January 6, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. (as per agenda, though date/time provided as 2026-01-06 19:15:00+00:00) for a regular meeting that included presentations, three public hearings, a public comment period, and adoption of numerous resolutions. The meeting also convened as the Community Development Agency board. Presentations - Recognition of Charles Holt: Councilwoman Maury presented a proclamation honoring Mr. Charles Holt, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel, on his upcoming 94th birthday (January 16, 2026). Mr. Holt served from 1954 to 1982 and later as vice president of Guardian Insurance Company and president of the Melville Senior Club. A citation from Assemblyman Keith Brown’s office was also presented. Consent Calendar - Resolutions 2026-1 through 2026-37 were adopted unanimously (5-0) as a consent agenda. These included: designating a bank depository; approving public official insurance and bonds; authorizing grant applications (NYSDOT TAP, Homeland Security Critical Infrastructure and Cybersecurity grants); accepting donations (Commack South Little League, office furniture); authorizing agreements for website hosting (Catalis), engineering services (H2M), sewer rehabilitation, assessment rate review, Black History and Hispanic Heritage programs, Dix Hills Water District wellhead treatment for 1,4-dioxane (contracts with JVR Electric and Philip Ross Industries), storm debris removal, senior services grants, youth bureau agreements, and budget amendments. Resolutions 2026-38 and 2026-39 were removed from the agenda and are inactive. Public Hearings Hearing 1: License Agreement with Verizon Wireless (2025-M-35) - Denise Vista (Motto Law Group) and Matthew Claro (Verizon) presented a 10-year lease for small wireless facilities. No public speakers opposed. The board noted that the application will also go before the Planning Board. Hearing 2: Local Law 31-2025 – Amending Building Permit Code (Chapter 87, Article III) - No speakers. Public hearing closed. Hearing 3: Zone Change Application 2024-ZM-485 – Nova Park (R5 to R3M Garden Apartment Special District) - Applicant Position: Attorney Michael McCarthy and engineer Chris Robinson proposed a 36-unit age-restricted (55+) for-sale development on 2.92 acres at the west end of West 23rd Street, Huntington Station. The project includes 24 townhomes and 12 flats in seven buildings, with a 20% affordable housing component (3–4 units, not age-restricted, with preference for first responders). Two community meetings were held. The South Huntington School District, Planning Board, and Suffolk County Planning Commission (staff report) recommended approval. The site is currently vacant ballfields sold by the school district in 2022 after a successful referendum. - Support: Vita DeLia, designee of the South Huntington Board of Education, read a letter expressing support, citing increased tax base (no tax abatement), revitalization, and affordable housing for first responders. - Opposition: Daniel Carpen argued that the conversion of open space violates environmental law (SEQRA), called for preservation as open space, and accused the school district of greed. - Questions: Robert Lamont asked for the definition of “affordable” (staff explained it is based on HUD area median income and bedroom count) and raised concerns about a single entrance/exit for fire safety. The board noted the project will be subject to further review. - The public hearing was closed; no vote was taken at this meeting. Public Comments & Testimony 1. Connie Chambers (West Shore Road): Expressed urgent concern about deer-vehicle collisions, describing a near-hit with a fawn. Asked for deer warning signs and speed reduction. Supervisor acknowledged the issue and pledged to follow up with Maritime Services and consider signs. 2. Sal D’Angelo: Welcome new board member Jen Hebert. Raised two issues: (a) asked the town to deny ICE access to town property for raids, citing due process; (b) urged enforcement of the gas leaf blower ban starting January 2027, with escalating penalties. 3. Cheryl Blum: Congratulated Supervisor, Dr. Bernardo, and Jen Hebert. Welcomed Hebert as a “citizen patriot” and asked that Town Hall be a welcoming place for all. 4. Dennis Yonkers (veteran): Urged the town to adopt the state law providing property tax relief for 100% service-connected disabled veterans, noting that it must be locally enacted. Expressed appreciation for the board’s support of veterans. 5. Denise Schwartz (East Northport): Criticized a December 2025 resolution that reduced the time requirement for lifetime health insurance for elected officials from 12 years to 6 years, calling it self-serving and urging the board to represent all residents. 6. Robert Lamont (Dix Hills): Questioned the cost of electric vehicles (seven vehicles at $100,000 each) and charging stations, and requested explanations. Supported outreach to elderly residents and better support for veterans. 7. Daniel Carpen (Huntington): Proposed scheduling a public hearing to reduce speed limits on Creek Road and West Shore Road to 20 mph, and install deer warning signs. Supervisor noted signs do not require a public hearing. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar adopted unanimously (5-0). - Public hearings on the Verizon lease, building permit code amendment, and Nova Park zone change were closed; no votes taken on substantive actions. - Community Development Agency board adopted Resolution 2026-CD-1 (bank account and check signers) unanimously. - The board indicated plans to follow up on deer safety signs and speed limits, and to consider the veterans’ property tax exemption and gas leaf blower enforcement. - The next meeting is anticipated for February 2026.

This workshop meeting of the Huntington Town Board, held on January 6, 2026, at approximately 2:00 PM, focused on a light agenda consisting primarily of routine administrative resolutions, grant authorizations, and contract approvals. The board also moved into a Community Development Agency session and later an executive session for a personnel matter. Consent Calendar - Resolution 2026-27 was added as a missing item to amend the 2026 operating budget for the town and its special districts. - Resolutions 1–37 were presented for adoption, covering routine actions such as designating a bank depository, approving public official insurance and bonds, authorizing grant applications (e.g., NYS Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Suffolk County senior services), accepting donations (Comac South Little League, office furniture), executing contracts (Catalis software, H2M engineering, Dix Hills Water District dioxane treatment), and other administrative matters. - Resolutions 38 and 39 were pulled from the agenda. - The board entertained a motion to close the town board and open as the Community Development Agency, which carried. A single resolution (CD-1) was adopted to authorize an agency bank account and designate check signers. Discussion Items - No substantive discussion or debate occurred on the presented resolutions. The meeting primarily consisted of the town attorney reading resolution titles and sponsors assigning sponsors. - Council members briefly clarified that public official insurance is distinct from health insurance and that a funding source for one resolution is federally funded. Key Outcomes - All resolutions on the consent calendar were adopted unanimously by voice vote, with the exception of the two pulled items. - The board voted to move into executive session for a non-agenda personnel matter. - The meeting concluded after the executive session motion.

Councilwoman Theresa Mari announced the launch of the U.S. Flag Disposal Bin Project, a partnership with the U.S. Marine Corps League to provide dignified retirement of worn or tattered American flags. The meeting consisted of a single informational presentation. Discussion Items - U.S. Flag Disposal Bin Project: Councilwoman Mari described the project, which establishes a repository for old, worn U.S. flags at the lobby of Huntington Town Hall (100 Main Street, Huntington). Flags placed in the bins will be collected and later destroyed in a respectful manner. The Town of Huntington has partnered with the U.S. Marine Corps League to operate the bins. Key Outcomes - The Town of Huntington officially launched the U.S. Flag Disposal Bin Project in partnership with the U.S. Marine Corps League. - Bins are now available in the lobby of Huntington Town Hall for residents to deposit worn flags for respectful retirement.

The Huntington Planning Board met on December 17, 2025, to consider minutes, extensions, bond approvals, site plans, subdivision waivers, and zoning board referrals. Key discussions centered on subdivision extension rationales, a site plan waiver, sidewalk waivers, modification of a subdivision covenant, and parking variance approaches for two commercial uses in the Elwood shopping center and a gym expansion. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes from November 19 and December 3, 2025, each with one abstention. - Project Extensions: Extended filing times for Country Hollow Estates, Roberg Estates, Yasso Plat, and 449 West Main Street Plat to March 2026. One board member abstained on the resolution, citing lack of explanation for repeated extensions, particularly for older subdivisions (e.g., Schneider Farm, Del Vino winery). The board agreed to request clearer justifications in the future. - Lot Line Change: Extended the Oster-Oster lot line change to March 18, 2026 (unanimous). - Performance Bond Extensions: Extended bonds for Dunkin Donuts (281 WW Rd), Kean Plat, Seamus Coyle, and Marrone Estates Section 2 (unanimous). - Landscape Bonds: Approved a $1,000 landscape bond for Haven Plat and a $3,000 landscape bond for Larkfield Commons Facade (both unanimous). Discussion Items - Site Plan 1 – 336 South Service Road: Proposed parking lot expansion and rear storage area. After staff worked with the applicant to relocate storage farther from public view, the board approved the plan unanimously. - Site Plan 2 – 534 Broadhollow Rd Facade Replacement: A building permit review for exterior window and panel replacement (all glass design). Board discussed that proposed landscaping in renderings is not part of the permit. Staff will advise the applicant to coordinate with the planning department if landscaping changes are made. No formal resolution; board consensus supported the facade upgrade. - Subdivision 1 – 8 Ruth Plat: Applicant requested waiver of sidewalks and streetlights on the new cul-de-sac. Board agreed to waive sidewalks but deferred streetlight decision pending review by traffic safety. A letter from an adjacent landowner was noted in the record; staff will include that in a whereas clause at preliminary approval. - Subdivision 2 – Huntington Manor, Section A, Lots 40-43: Applicant requested waiver of sidewalks along both street frontages. No objections from the board. - Subdivision 3 – Woodhull Plat: Applicant requested removal of a covenant requiring a 5-foot berm, replaced by a 4-foot retaining wall. Board praised the stormwater capture system and voted to amend the covenant without conditions, allowing future owners to plant screening. - ZBA Referral 1 & 2 – Elwood Shopping Center: Two uses (recreation and restaurant) in former movie theater need parking relief. Staff recommended the restaurant apply for a straight parking variance rather than adjusting the 10% shopping center allowance. Board concurred. - ZBA Referral 3 – 234 New York Avenue: Gym expansion from adjacent space requires a parking variance. Board supported the parking relief but noted that any rooftop use (classes, activities) would require separate site plan review for screening and neighbor impacts. Key Outcomes - All consent items (minutes, extensions, bonds) were approved with noted abstentions. - Site Plan 1 (336 South Service Road) received conditional approval. - Site Plan 2 (534 Broadhollow Rd) received consensus support; no formal vote. - Subdivision waivers (8 Ruth Plat sidewalks, Huntington Manor sidewalks) will be addressed at preliminary approval; streetlight waiver for 8 Ruth Plat remains pending. - Woodhull Plat covenant modification approved: berm requirement removed, retaining wall accepted without additional conditions. - ZBA referrals: Board recommended parking variance approach for restaurant at Elwood; supported gym parking variance with caveat on rooftop review. Next Steps: Staff to prepare resolutions for Woodhull Plat covenant amendment and request clearer rationales for future subdivision extensions.