Laura Jens-Smith
Supervisor: Main Street zoning needs changes and we want your input
It is time we implement zoning that allows for smart development. We need development that encourages mixed-use buildings and supports both commercial and residential development and enhances the feel of our downtown. Column by Laura Jens-Smith
Supervisor candidate calls for dissolution of Riverhead IDA
Eventually you have to ask yourself who is going to pay the taxes in this town? And that finger seems to point directly to the already-overburdened homeowners and small businesses of Riverhead.
Opinion: Main Street, meet Queens
The widespread negative reaction to an architect's rendering of apartment buildings planned for downtown made it perfectly clear: Riverhead residents don't want our historic downtown to be turned into Queens.
In My Opinion Why Riverhead is still missing the mark on downtown revitalization
Smart growth is needed. This takes planning and a strong commitment to encourage development that provides a variety of housing types, not just rental apartments.
Opinion How one little word change undid years of work that went into town’s master plan
Several years after the Town Board adopted the master plan, it quietly changed one word, creating a giant loophole that effectively unraveled the result of years of planning.
Downtown redevelopment: Let’s get this right
Democratic town board candidates urge care and thoughtfulness moving forward with downtown redevelopment. If we rush and make the wrong choices, they argue, Riverhead will be forced to live with the consequences for many years to come.
