Sports Complex In Kings Park On BZA Agenda For Public Hearing July 8th

By Chris Biancaniello

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) will be in session Tuesday evening at 7pm at the Smithtown Senior Citizen Center, 420 Middle Country Rd., Smithtown. On the agenda is a public hearing for Prospect Sports LLC’s proposal to build a sports complex in Kings Park. Prospect Sports is proposing the complex on a 44.45 acre parcel of previously sand mined property. The site is accessible on Old Northport Rd. and is located in an area zoned for LI (Light Industry).  The proposed sports complex is an acceptable use as a special exception in LI. Special Exceptions are granted by the Town Board. 

The property now vacant has been sand mined by its previous owner. To the north of the property are single-family dwellings, to the east a golf driving range and townhouse development. To the south is the Town’s landfill and a precast concrete manufacturer and to the west is an uncapped landfill. In addition to the Special Exception, Prospect Sports requires several variances which make a public hearing by the BZA necessary. 

Prospect Sports is requesting:

A variance to reduce minimum lot frontage at setback line from 100 ft to 52 ft.

Waive standards that requires recreational uses to be in permanent structures and that such activity not exceed the area of the principal building.

Waive the standards that requires adequate parking and that requires compliance with the height requirements (proposed buildings-60ft.& 52ft height)

Waive the standard that outdoor lighting does not exceed 18ft. in height-to 60ft. for 55 light poles

Variance to increase the height of buildings from 35 ft. to 60 ft. (two 52 ft. bldgs. & one 60ft bldg)

Increase height of accessory structure from 18ft. to 65ft. (55 proposed light poles)

Increase height of accessory structure from 18 ft. to 25 ft. (proposed 25 poles)

Increase height of accessory structure from 18 ft. to 25 ft. (proposed 25ft. high fences)

Reduce min. required parking spaces from 2,476 to 1,038

Reduce number of parking landscape islands from 126 to 0

Increase the height of retaining walls from 6ft. to 23 ft.

Reduce the setback of a 23 Ft. high retaining wall from the lot line from 23 ft. to 3 ft,

Reduce the min. required number of truck loading spaces from 5 to 0

Front yard landscaping from 80 percent to 30 percent

Variance to the requirement that any outdoor lighting shall be limited to the illumination of buildings for security purposes and the lighting of parking areas and accessway. (5 ball fields).

The site, which once housed a sand mining operation, is considered blighted by many.  Currently there have been reports of people using the site with dirt bikes, atv’s etc. At the April 25, 2014 Public Hearing for the Special Exception, Kings Park Civic association leader Sean Lehmann supported the proposal stating “We believe that recreational, training and office use is a much more benign reuse of the site than the surrounding heavy industrial type uses in the area. We acknowledge that there are some concerns such as lighting, noise and hours of operation, but we are confident that our town representatives and the applicant can work on a reasonable solution. The potential to protect local residents from another obnoxious use, create local jobs, and increase in our tax base, stimulus for our local businesses and much needed playing fields and training for our youth leagues are all positives.”

There are issues that need to be addressed before everyone is comfortable with the sports complex proposal. Although the Planning Department has not received a lot of calls on the proposal, lighting, traffic and noise are areas of concern for some nearby residents. One resident who preferred not to be named stated, “There are concerns about the traffic, noise and lighting at the site that concern me.  I will reserve judgement until I hear how the town is planning on dealing with these concerns.” 

Tuesday’s BZA meeting begins at 7pm on Tuesday, July 8. The public is welcome to attend and there will be the opportunity to proffer comments and questions.  

Information about the cancellation/postponement of the meeting is available at Smithtown’s Planning Department 631-360-7540. 

Editorial - Supervisor Vecchio Show Us The Money

As expected there has been some outrage over Supervisor Vecchio’s proposal to eliminate two elected positions (Receiver of Taxes and Town Clerk) and to replace them with appointed department heads.  Supervisor Vecchio has acknowledged that some people would see his proposal as a political move eliminating the positions of two people who didn’t support him in his reelection campaign in November. The reaction from those most impacted by the proposal was as swift as it was vitriolic.

The battles at Town Hall are legendary and not unique to this board. Over the years the players have changed, but the two constants have been Vecchio and the fact that Smithtown politics is tough and not for the faint of heart. Machiavelli could probably learn a thing or two from our long-term supervisor.

Politics aside, it is worth noting that the Supervisor’s proposal does not affect the current term of the Town Clerk or Receiver of Taxes. Presumably legislation, if approved by voters in November of 2014, would become effective at the end of the term of office which for Receiver of Taxes would be 2015 and Town Clerk in 2017. 

The Supervisor’s proposal, whether it is political or purely economical, is irrelevant at this point as Pandora’s Box has been opened exposing to voters and taxpayers that recommendations for streamlining government exist. The New York State Commission on Local Government Efficiency and Competitiveness is one of the many organizations identifying how we can make government more efficient, responsible and cost effective. U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara is proposing to take the pensions of those elected who violate their positions, NYPRG advocates for transparency in campaigns, good government organizations are calling for an end to cross endorsements, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone is pushing for the consolidation of positions at the county level, Legislator Lindsay has called for removing the automatic salary increase for Suffolk County legislators.  All of these proposals have the potential to save taxpayers money and to restore trust in government.

Proposals to reduce the tax burden need to be examined, and if warranted, deserve the support of the public. Push back from political people should not be enough to squelch proposals that could bring relief for residents.  This cannot be about Deanna Varrichio or Vincent Puleo, it is about efficiency and economy in government to best serve its people.

Supervisor Vecchio has incredible political acumen; he has been on the job for thirty-six years and is well aware of the reaction his proposal would evoke from partisan political people. He also knows that these are tough economic times for Smithtown residents who are paying high taxes at the same time they are feeling that their quality of life is declining. He is willing to put his proposal before the voter in a public referendum. A smart move from a man with decades of experience.  

As Tom Cruise said in the movie Jerry Maguire “Show me the money”.  Supervisor Vecchio, you’ve got our attention, now tell us how we save money.

Pat

Editorial - On July 4th Remember The Revolutionaries

July 4th is the day we celebrate the resolve of those who signed the Declaration of Independence.  The men who signed the document were bold in their ideas and in their willingness to identify themselves.  Affixing their signatures prominently on the Declaration of Independence was dangerous and placed them at risk. These men were leaders. Those who supported independence from England were called patriots,  rebels, congressmen, whigs and finally Americans. 

The government they created, under the Articles of Confederation of States proved to be ineffective and so they went back to the drawing board. Our Constitution reflects their wisdom, insightfulness and ability to compromise. Their actions were revolutionary and so was the government they created.

On July 4th let us celebrate the small group of patriots who changed the world.

Pat

What's Cookin'? Smithtown - Nesconset Farmer's Market

What’s Cookin’? – Smithtown

 By Nancy Vallarella

Nesconset Farmer’s Market

This Saturday is a great day to visit the Nesconset Farmer’s Market.  July’s kickoff  includes a bounty of new products, musical performance, vendor promotions and for the first time this season…PICKLES! Yes, NFM shoppers, the most requested item during the month of June will be available this Saturday, July 5th. Stop by and satisfy the craving for crispy, briney green goodness.

The second most anticipated item of the season will be there too. Fresh picked local corn on the cob will be making its debut. Michelle Fink of Fink’s Country Farm from Wading River will deliver two more new products this week; kirby cucumbers – perfect to eat as is or brine for DIY pickles and bunches of fresh sweet basil – ideal for batches of pesto that can be frozen and thawed for quick summer meals.

Become a VIP of Sujecki Farm and Nurseries. Their produce is locally grown in Calverton and GMO free. With every visit to this stand, you can earn a stamp towards 15% off your entire purchase. Ask for your VIP Farm Friend Card at Sujecki’s stand.

Switch it up on the BBQ this weekend and throw on some of the finest, freshest fish available in town. The NFM seafood vendor has the best scallops I’ve tasted in my lifetime. Many customers agree. Clean and dry, no sand or shrinkage; sweet and buttery they are the crown jewel of the seafood case.  Other treasures of the sea may also available. Cod, swordfish, calamari, flounder, bluefish and others as long as they didn’t get away, should be available. The sure thing here is it is always fresh.

Monty’s Breads will bring their assortment of artisanal breads. If you like olives… You will love their olive bread.

Speaking of olives… Salce Imports will be there offering tastings of their imported Italian olive oils. Available in a variety of sizes, flavors, organic and extra virgin this product will kick up the flavor in your favorite recipes. The three pack of flavored evoo makes a terrific hostess gift.

Another well received hostess gift, or personal treat is Natural Body Treats body care products. Their creams, serums and soaps are available in mouthwatering flavors. Stop by their stand to smell, to try, to buy a delicious no calorie indulgence. Chocaholic alert! – NBT offers chocolate scented soap!

Nico PaddenEnhancing this week’s shopping experience will be soulful singer and lyricist, folk – rock performer Nico Padden. 

Say hi to Steven Anderson of Anderson’s Organic Landscaping. He has the knowledge and products to keep your grass greener and your trees healthier.

Managing the market, this week will be Bernadette Martin of Long Island Green Markets. Stop by the Manager’s Booth if you are out of cash and need to charge and sign up for the Cookbook Give-a-Way. One lucky shopper will win a signed by the author copy of The Hamptons and Long Island Homegrown Cookbook on Saturday, July 26th!

The Nesconset Farmer’s Market facebook page has been updated for the 2014 season. Please “LIKE” to www.facebook.com/pages/Nesconset-Farmers-Market/316633685102116?ref=hl receive weekly news and updates on the market or sign up for LI Green Markets weekly newsletter at the Manager’s Booth.

The Nesconset Farmer’s Market is open Saturday’s from 9:00am - 1:00pm thru November 22. It is located in the parking lot of Nesconset Plaza, 127 Smithtown Blvd. across from the Nesconset branch of the Smithtown Library.

Op Ed - Nero Let Rome Burn, Vecchio’s is Setting Smithtown on Fire

Nero Let Rome Burn, Vecchio’s is Setting Smithtown on Fire

Maureen Rossi

Supervisor Vecchio at Jan. 2014 swearing in ceremonyMy studies of Ancient Roman History took place in the late 70’s at all-girl’s Catholic Academy in Queens.   Although removed by many decades, the story of Nero The Great Roman Emperor has been resurrected before my eyes as I watch Political Theater play out; the show is starring our very  own Town Supervisor.

He recently announced that he would like to have the elected position of Town Clerk and Receiver of Taxes become appointed positions.   He says this decision came about to save money – it came about because of a 2008 report by the New York State Commission on Local Government Efficiency and Competitiveness, 21^st Century Local Government.  He says that very study recommends town and county administrative positions be converted from elected to appointed offices.    

Hmmm…..that’s curious, that’s not a common practice in New York State.   Nor does it seem to be popular here on Long Island where all townships the positions of Town Clerk and Receiver of Taxes are still elected positions.   Let’s take a look at good look at this new concept and why it might or might not work, but let’s do that in reverse.

It might not be an optimal approach because it has the potential to remove a level of transparency.   It could also create a scenario where the Town Supervisor has more power.   Some critics who have knowledge of the inner workings of Smithtown government feel our leader already has too much power.  Some say there are policies and procedures that he is remiss in following.   He is known for not consulting with all his Department Heads, he hasn’t uttered a single word to Town Clerk Vinny Puleo in two years.  He also fails to communicate with members of his very own Town Board on many issues.   Take for example, this issue; there were three work sessions in the last month and Supervisor Vecchio never uttered a word to Councilman Wehrheim or Councilman Creighton about this idea and eliminating two election postions.  However, he did speak about with Councilman McCarthy and Councilwoman Nowick and yes of course he consulted his friend Dave Ambro of The Smithtown News.   However, he also failed to mention anything to the two people who hold the positions of Town Clerk and Receiver of Taxes.  You know those people that the voters elected. 

He never let the Town Clerk know that a complaint had been filed against him in early May and that his First Deputy asked to be transferred.  As a matter of fact he didn’t even apprise the Town Attorney. 

Also, who would do the work of these elected officials if their positions were eradicated?   Let’s take a peek at the Town Clerk’s office.  An incredibly busy hub, many would say the main hub, it takes in over $650,000 a year.    Over twenty-thousand people show up at their office on the first floor of Town Hall and they handle over eighteen-thousand phones calls annually.   The Town Clerk’s Office does all the licensing for the Town of Smithtown; all marriage and death certificates, birth certificates, licensing for  garbage trucks, tow trucks, clam moorings, boats, taxi cabs, ramps etc.   A few weeks back they logged 200 calls in one day.

Why might this work or why might this have to work?  Money – money is a problem, taxes are a problem.  They are a problem endemic to all Long Islanders.   The 2% tax cap that was implemented in NYS two years back is a meritorious  concept, however, it has the potential to hurt small municipalities where salaries plus medical benefits plus pension costs create an unsustainable situation.

The Dreaded C Word

We are all going to have to get used to the dreaded C word when it comes to municipalities – CONSOLIDATION.    From a fiduciary standpoint the consolidation of services, jobs, small school districts is a dialogue we are all going to be forced to partake in over the next few years.   The system we have is unsustainable and we will all be taxed off the Island if this trajectory does not change.  Suffolk County Government has done an extraordinary job in leading the way with some of their consolidation efforts.  

NERO

Nero was a famous Roman Empire who ruled for a great length of time, for decades.    He was known to be a brilliant man who was well-versed in an array of subject matters including philosophy, the arts and theater. However, despite his luminous intellect he was also known as a tyrant.   Anyone who dared to cross the great and powerful leader would come to fully understand the meaning of REVENGE.  He was known to be ruthless.   Unfortunately, in the final years of his rule, the Roman Empire began to decline.  The Empire’s worth declined and currency was even devalued.   He is most known for what happened at the end of his rule – he is best known for letting Rome burn down while he danced and played music with no regard for the people of his Empire or the future of the Empire.

Critics loudly decry Vecchio’s recent antics to remove the elected positions of Puleo and Varrichio as purely political; as an act of REVENGE.   I hope this is not the case.  Smithtown is a beautiful township, a crowning jewel of Suffolk County.  Vecchio’s decades of rule have served us all well overall; we do owe him a debt of gratitude for our beautiful beaches and parks and marinas and high quality of life here.  However, I fear REVENGE is consuming him.    I fear all the good he has done will be forgotten by the decline of his final days of rule.