Environment
Riverhead weighs code changes after groundwater contamination near East Hampton BESS fire
Riverhead officials are revisiting the town’s battery energy storage rules after PFAS contamination was detected in public water supply wells near the site of the 2023 East Hampton BESS fire.
Denise Civiletti
Riverhead settled a tax lawsuit last week, but officials wouldn’t disclose the terms
When the Town Board votes to approve a tax lawsuit settlement, taxpayers have the right to know what it will cost.
Business
Town Board starts environmental review of golf-course cottage zoning proposal
The Riverhead Town Board began formal environmental review of proposed zoning to allow accessory cottages at the town's existing golf courses.
Government
Riverhead takes up pet-store law amendments, settles URT tax case: Aug. 4 Town Board wrap-up
The Riverhead Town Board held a public hearing on revisions to its pet-store law, approved the settlement of tax litigation with United Riverhead Terminal and more on Tuesday.
Business
Riverhead loses key cannabis setback fight, but zoning law survives broader challenge
An appeals court struck down Riverhead’s 1,000-foot school setback for cannabis dispensaries, but upheld other zoning provisions and left the town’s 2,500-foot separation rule unresolved.
Government
New ambulance facility moves forward: Town Board July 21 meeting wrap-up
The Town Board scheduled a public hearing on the proposed facility and authorized a lease agreement with Riverhead Volunteer Ambulance Corps .
Letters
Bring back verbatim Minutes
Detailed minutes are a valuable resource for tracking issues and create a permanent historical record.
Government
Riverhead revives helicopter noise task force as FAA rule nears expiration
Riverhead's helicopter noise task force met Thursday to discuss new complaints of low-flying aircraft as an FAA route rule nears expiration.
Denise Civiletti
Halpin was wrong to silence a critic at a public meeting
Riverhead Supervisor Jerry Halpin cut off a resident, silenced the audio feed and had her escorted out. Public officials must tolerate criticism.
Government
Riverhead approves voluntary retirement incentives for 53 eligible town employees
The Riverhead Town Board voted unanimously Tuesday to ratify voluntary retirement incentive agreements with three town employee unions, a cost-cutting measure the town hopes will save between $500,000 and $800,000.
