April Message
from MAYOR MARGOT GARANT
As the Village blossoms into another spring, we find ourselves awakening in the midst of the tragic Covid 19 pandemic. Despite the ever-changing rules, the lockdowns, the mandates, the guidelines, precautions, questions, complaints, and the risks that so many took to keep us healthy and out of harm’s way, our beautiful Village has survived and is resilient in its rejuvenation.
With up to 11 new businesses opening in downtown Port Jeff including a new restaurant by the harbor, a new spice and tea shop in Chandler Square, a wedding planning studio on East Main, a gift and flower shop on Arden, and a new bakery in Baker’s Alley, our Village’s local economy remains a preferred and attractive destination for residents and visitors alike to dine and shop.
We have been making a lot of progress for the benefit and safety of our residents. We have been undergoing major infrastructure improvements. The projects include a new sidewalk and paving on West Broadway, a new traffic light at the bottom of Liberty and Main Street, two major retaining wall projects; one at East Beach and another at Highlands Boulevard. After an intense process with the DEC, Suffolk County, and New York State, Port Jefferson Village received 80,000 cubic yards of replenished sand from the dredging of Mount Sinai Harbor at no cost to the taxpayers. We are awaiting approval from the DEC for our plan to stabilize the bluff and shoreline.
Uptown will experience its first major ground-breaking at the southeast corner by the railway station. This new mixed-use retail and 43 unit affordable housing building will begin the much-needed and long-awaited transformation of Upper Port. Other projects are underway to enhance the beauty and liveability of this part of Port Jefferson. In the coming months, you will see the old brick Suffolk County Water Authority building which has stood abandoned across from Village Hall restored into a new office for the ferry boat company. Likewise, the abandoned property on the corner of West Broadway and Beach Street will also be restored, bringing back a deli to the Village after many long years.
Our parks and beautification departments are hard at work maintaining our beautiful beaches, Harborfront Park, and the very popular Rocketship Park. We also look forward to honoring two of our dear residents, Jerry Spiliotis and Peter Graham, at a special bench dedication in a newly planted pocket park contiguous to the Fifth Season restaurant this spring.
Despite Covid, this administration is busy overseeing many ongoing projects. We are processing bids and securing various grant initiatives to continue the major progress made in our beautiful Village. To date, my administration has secured over $4 million in grants to help upgrade our facilities and parks at no cost to the taxpayers.
Please share with your friends and neighbors how to sign up for our electronic newsletter, the 'Port E-Report' by going to our website or using the QR code below. Once on the website, make sure you join our Code Red Emergency Contact System for notifications on critical events throughout the Village.
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As always, I'd like to thank the members of the Board of Trustees, Deputy Mayor Loucks, our executive team at Village Hall, our department heads, Code Bureau, and staff throughout the village for their hard work, persistence, and ability to adapt and adjust during the difficult months of COVID. As we welcome spring, I'm so grateful to enjoy this beautiful time when we'll see our village rebound back to the vibrant, welcoming community we're all so proud to call home. |
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SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING |
Protecting our streets and parks is a top priority. Our 'See Something - Say Something' campaign is designed to make you a part of the solution. Signs are being posted throughout Main Street, in both uptown and downtown areas. The phone number of the supervising Code Officer is prominently displayed on each sign. We encourage residents to report any suspicious activity or other hazards. If you see something unusual or witness any concerning behavior, call (631) 774-0066. The Code Enforcement Bureau will secure the scene immediately, investigate the situation and work with SCPD. Our Code officers have a well-established relationship with SCPD. Many of them are retired, active or auxiliary officers. We also have security cameras on our streets. SCPD’s real-time crime center is tied into our camera system and can monitor them when necessary. All crimes are reported to Suffolk County Police. It will take all of us to be proactive and diligent to continue with the good work that has already been established. |
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NEWS FROM THE PLANNING BOARD
The Gitto Group is proposing a new mixed-use building for the former Lobster House site at the corner of North Country Road and 25A. This project currently proposes 32 one-bedroom and 4 two-bedroom market-rate apartments as well as ground floor office space.
While the proposed project meets the Village Code's requirement for the number of parking spaces provided, presentations by the Gitto Group to the Planning Board have involved detailed discussions about transit-oriented development. The Gitto Group has multiple projects on Long Island within walking distance to major transit hubs such as Long Island Rail Road stations; residents are attracted to these buildings because they can rely on public transportation for their commute- or might choose to not have a car at all- decreasing traffic congestion and ensuring that the project as a whole is designed as part of a walkable community. The Gitto Group will be providing data to the Planning Board regarding vehicle presence at their other transit-oriented properties.
A recording of the public hearing is available on the Village's Youtube channel. Public comment on this project is open through April 18th. Comments or questions can be emailed to Csuarez@portjeff.com or mailed/delivered to the PJV Building/Planning Department. Reminder, the planning board monthly meetings are held the second Thursday of every month, but always check the website to confirm the dates. These meetings are an effective venue for any residents who wish to share thoughts or questions about a new project while it is in its planning phase.
We invite any and all to attend!
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FERRY BUILDING RECEIVES SITE PLAN APPROVAL |
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The Planning Board announced the approval of the site plan for the Port Jefferson Ferry Company. The new ferry offices will be located on 116 West Broadway. This milestone is a major move for the Ferry Company on its mission to upgrade its operations.
The Ferry Company has now jumped one of the biggest hurdles in the redevelopment process. “I am happy to see a well-thought-out design that took into account the feedback from the Architectural Review Committee says Kathianne Snaden, a Trustee for Port Jefferson Village and Liaison for the ARC. "The old water authority buildings sat empty for almost 14 years and I am excited for a beautiful building that will bring some life to that location."
Demolition has begun and we look forward to the new construction.
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UPPER PORT REVITALIZATION
We Are One Step Closer!
Conifer, a respected and experienced developer, will bring new life and vitality to the property at the southeast gateway corner near the railroad station. The construction fence is up and they are ready to begin demolition.
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Stay tuned for construction dates and groundbreaking. |
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New Traffic Light Coming this Spring
Keep your eyes open…
In order to enhance safety, a new traffic signal is being installed at the intersection of Liberty Ave and 25A.
The construction is already underway with the concrete foundations having already been poured.
Soon, the rest of the signal is scheduled to be up and running.
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New Code for Vacant Properties
Beauty inspires!
We have both short-term and long-term goals with the redevelopment of our beautiful village. Our newest code initiative improves our short-term beautification efforts. It is modeled after the already successful ordinances in the Hamptons and Riverhead townships. It empowers building owners in the C1, C2, and Marina Waterfront districts to add artwork filling 50% of each window on a vacant property. The village has compiled a list of many resources for acquiring art for their windows. It is important for our village to have these revitalization efforts in place while all of the long-term work is happening. It is another step forward in our plan to continue reinventing our village.
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BARNUM LOT OPENS
More spaces, more chances for state-of-the-art parking…
The Village of Port Jefferson is pleased to announce the opening of the new technology-driven Barnum Parking Lot. This is the first lot added to the village in more than half a century. Located east of the Joe Erland Field this 46-spot lot is now open for use. We've installed 2 electric car charging stations, security cameras all around, plus lighting has been upgraded to LED. The Parking Logix counting system will be ready for use soon, drivers will be able to see, at a glance, if there is an available spot in the lot. All of this technology will cost you nothing. Parking in the Barnum lot is free. But no overnight parking will be allowed.
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PRIME PARKING PROGRAM
We Keep it Movin'...
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Have you ever been frustrated that you can’t find a parking spot up-front? Have you ever noticed a car that was in those up-front spots for days? Well, that will change in two prime parking areas. Area A and B on the picture will now be 2-hour prime parking zones. It gives you enough time to go have a nice dinner, do some shopping, visit our amenities. The perfect balance. The more we turn over these prime spots, the more chances you will have to get one. |
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PORT JEFFERSON COUNTRY CLUB
Are You Ready For Some Fun and Fresh Air?
The best escape is just a stone’s throw away. The Port Jefferson Country Club is a fresh cut above the ordinary, offering an outdoor retreat for all. We are a waterfront private club offering tennis and golf, set on a 170-acre property overlooking the Long Island Sound. Our club features a Championship Length 18 Hole Golf Course • 8 Lighted Har-Tru Tennis Courts • A Magnificent Clubhouse with a Full-Service Restaurant, Extensive Catering, and Locker Room Facilities.
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We’re ready to take your experience to the next level.
That’s why we have amazing activities planned. Check it out…
Every Friday night there is Live Music from 5pm to 9pm at The Turn
Wednesday, May 5th - Back Nine and Breakfast
Sunday, May 23rd - Members BBQ at The Turn patio
Saturday, June 19th - Jake's Giant Jenga
Sunday August 15th - Feast on the Fairway
Monday, September 6th - Summer Lobster bake at The Waterview
Sunday, October 10th - Goodbye Summer BBQ at The Turn
We are also scheduling:
Parent/Grandparent & Child Event
Bring a Guest Event
4 Player Scramble and BBQ
Octoberfest Tournament
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Explore our beautiful surroundings and have fun with your friends! Don’t miss out!
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Enrollment for golf programs with Assistant Golf Professional, Jake Anderson, are now ready for the 2021 season! Junior and adult programs begin in April and run all the way through October. We offer programs for all ages and skill levels. All registrations will be done online.
Click the link at the top of the page to register. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Jake at the pro shop 631-285-1814.
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CALENDAR
March/April PJ Gallery Exhibit - Smithtown Artist Group
Meet & Greet, Saturday
April 17, 2-4pm
May 17-31 Self-Guided Art Walk
May 23 Walk for Hope Breast
Cancer (Virtual)
June 12 Eastern LI Maker Faire
(Virtual)
Summer Concert Series,
Movies & Children Shows
TBA next edition
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Self-Guided Art Walk
Spring: May 17 - May 31, 2021
All day event to view at your Leisure!
Over 30 participating businesses will display original Artwork by local artists in their windows for public viewing. Artwork will be viewed throughout PJ Village. Maps will be given out with locations of artwork and listing of artists.
Supported by the Night Herons.
Sponsored by the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce
(631) 473-1414.
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Arts in the Park
The Port Jefferson Documentary Series
SPECIAL EVENT!
PARTY IN THE PARK!
Monday, April 26, 2021
HOWIE MANDEL: BUT ENOUGH ABOUT ME “Doors” open @ 7:00pm & movie starts at sundown Harborfront Park, Raindate: Next Day
SPRING SERIES
Monday, April 5, 2021
END OF THE LINE: THE WOMEN OF STANDING ROCK
Virtual Screening Online @ 7pm with 48 hrs. to view
Monday, April 12, 2021
ME TO PLAY Virtual Screening Online @ 7pm with 48 hrs. to view
Monday, April 19, 2021
THE JUMP Virtual Screening Online @ 7pm with 48 hours to view
Tuesday, May 4, 2021
TRUMAN AND TENNESSEE: AN INTIMATE CONVERSATION “Doors” open @ 7:30pm & movie starts at sundown Harborfront Park, Raindate: Next Day
Monday, May 10, 2021
RONNIE’S “Doors” open @ 7:30pm & movie starts at sundown Harborfront Park, Raindate: Next Day
Monday, May 17, 2021
CHASING CHILDHOOD
“Doors” open @ 7:30pm & movie starts at sundown Harborfront Park, Raindate: Next Day
Monday, May 24, 2021
RED HEAVEN
“Doors” open @ 7:30pm & movie starts at sundown Harborfront Park, Raindate: Next Day
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BEAUTIFICATION: 11,000 BULBS PLANTED
It's About More Than Just Flowers…
It is all in a day's work for master gardener Caran Markson. She is the village’s full-time gardener that focuses on every aspect of how gardens can improve a community. There are obvious outcomes like beautification and environmental impacts. But she also understands her work has economic impacts as well. "I have been to Retailers Association meetings to discuss beautification. Beauty is an economic driver. A well-kept village attracts more retail dollars, which in turn leads to greater revenue and growth."
Over the last 5 years, Caran has planted over 11,000 bulbs around the village of Port Jefferson. And here is a tip from our master gardener… "I focus on Daffodils for spring because they can last 100 years and the deer will not eat them."
Springtime in the village has been made that much more enjoyable and vibrant because of Caran’s passionate attention to making all aspects of her gardens work. She is a gardener who takes community gardening to new heights!
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NEW PRINTER FOR THE ARCHIVE ROOM
Our History is ALIVE
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If you have ever seen the amazing art shows that the Village Center displays, you may have wondered where those beautiful 44"x60" images came from? The answer is the Archive Room in the Village Center where history and expression thrive. Sue Orifici, the Village’s Graphic Artist, and Chris Ryon, the Village’s Historian, curate art shows, dig into our past to find answers for our future and create beautiful media with skill and attention to detail that is unmatched.
The historical side of the archive room is where images are stored and archived. They scan, digitize and catalog our Village's rich history. Anyone can visit to have their historic photos scanned and added to our catalog, in exchange for a digital copy - and perhaps a large printed copy. The images are often used for the Art Shows at the Village Center.
The graphic side of the archive room is where Sue makes her magic! Sue creates all of the printed products for almost every aspect of our Village. From posters to Dickens programs, ads and brochures to newsletters. Sue’s artistic abilities make our Village look great!
The Conservancy, a not-for-profit fundraising organization for Port Jefferson, found out that the archive room’s 15-year-old large format printer was on its last legs. They recognized the importance of the photo exhibits and the history presented, so they purchased a new printer. "It’s important to preserve our history. Residents and businesses often come in and purchase historical photographs. We all enjoy seeing the beginnings of our beautiful Village!" says Lisa Perry, the president of the Conservancy.
Check our Meet the Team segment below to learn more about Sue and Chris
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MEET THE TEAM...
Meet our team. Their stories are inspiring, and they provide excellent service to all who live here and visit. We will highlight a new professional every month and introduce you to the most amazing and talented individuals that make Port Jefferson Village so special. These are people who bring their experience and dedication every single day. When they say it takes a village, they’re talking about the people of Port Jefferson Village!
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MEET CHRIS RYON - Our volunteer Municipal Historian for the Village of Port Jefferson for the last 7 years. He's a little Indiana Jones, a little David McCullough a little Ken Burns, and we get the benefit of his brilliance. He gives our village the gift of our history by managing projects that archive our historical homes, businesses, and culture.
Chris has amassed an extensive digital map collection that will leave you in awe. Want to find out what this area looked like during the Revolutionary War period? He has scanned it and can share it digitally. Pick a time in our history and the map is there for you because of his efforts.
Chris also recently co-curated a show chronicling Northrup Grumman that brought out people from the Grumman community from all over Long Island. It was an informative and entertaining reunion.
In the Archive room, you can see photographs from the 1800s that give us an understanding of the early years in Port Jefferson. The pictures from the early 1900s are particularly important to Chris because they include his great grandfather who moved his family here to work on the largest schooner built in Port Jefferson, the Martha E. Wallace, which launched August 2, 1902. This may be surprising, but he even curates pictures from the 2000s, our modern history is all a part of the big picture.
"The most rewarding part of the job is getting to interact with the community and in collaboration with other historians to uncover pieces of history not found before," Chris says.
Thank you, Chris, we appreciate all of the hard work
that goes into uncovering our history!
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MEET SUE ORIFICI - Our Village Graphic Artist and Archive Department Special Projects Manager. We have all heard that first impressions matter, and Sue’s body of work is Port Jefferson's first impression with every type of media. Her artistic brilliance presents our Village in a professional and positive light. She gives us the gift of a professional and beautiful visual narrative.
Sue’s innovative ideas and designs continue to bring our web and print products to the next level. Everyone can tell you that her work is always done with joy and professionalism.
"When I see the various products I've created displayed, ie. brochures, posters, and even this newsletter, I'm proud of the impact of my work and the function it serves for the community," says Sue. " The best thing about my position is that no two days are the same. Each day, I encounter a diversity of people, projects, and challenges to solve."
Sue also works with Chris Ryon, the Village Historian, on archival and printing projects as well as administering the Port Jefferson Gallery. They are the Dynamic Duo of the Archive Room, their combined work has preserved and shared our beautiful village in a way we are all proud of.
"One of the biggest misconceptions is that we have enough photos - We never have enough photos" Sue explains. "We are here for you on the 2nd floor of the Village Center. Please send us your photos of events, points of interest, and even great photos of the harbor. What is new today is tomorrow's history." If you have something to share, come visit us. We will scan, document, and return your treasures. They will always be yours. If used, you'll receive credit. Of course, high res is preferred. Email: sorifici@portjeff.com. Sue is an important part of the team that makes our Village work.
Thank you for your creativity and artistic viewpoint!
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NOW OPEN
We would like to extend a warm welcome to the village’s newest businesses. We hope they will soon become your local favorites! Keep your eyes open because there are more to come!
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THE SPACE
at Port Jefferson
The Space specializes in all types of media services. From headshots to LIVE internet radio and video to virtual wedding ceremonies to TV commercial production, we have you covered. The Space - your one-stop-shop for multimedia services.
234 Traders Cove
(516) 939-8960
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THE SPICE AND TEA EXCHANGE
The Spice & Tea Exchange offers a variety of fine spices, handcrafted seasonings, loose-leaf teas, salts, sugars, gifts, and more!
22 Chandler Square
(631) 828-4445
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THE SLATE AND FLORAL EVENT STUDIO
A retail studio that creates one of a kind florals and event decor featuring whimsical artisan gifts and treasures.
158 East Main Street
Suite 2
(631) 278-9068
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from Deputy Mayor Stan Loucks
This is a very important and busy time of year. As you may or not know, the Village Budget year runs from June 1st through May 31st so each Village Department is busy putting together a wish list of all needs for the coming year. Although I am totally involved in assisting in the Village Budget, I have an additional responsibility to assist in preparing a Budget for the Country Club.
The Country Club, our Village jewel, stands alone. By that I mean we receive no tax support from the Village and need to bring in enough revenue to run the club independently. So we, at the club, are busy preparing a budget for our upcoming 21-22 season.
We all know what the last year has done to our country and to the world. However, there has been a bright light shining over Port Jefferson. That light is our Country Club. We are concluding one of the most successful years that we have ever had thanks to many talented and hard-working people. I want to highlight Brian Macmillan (club manager), Danielle Condia (membership director), Lisa Perry (CCMAC Chair), the CCMAC, Jennifer Hildreth (membership recruitment), Bill Mackedon (golf pro), Jake Anderson (ass’t pro), Eric Dunn (tennis pro), Dana Eng (past tennis president), David Brandman (tennis president), the golf and tennis staffs, the golf maintenance staff, the tennis board, golf board, Ron Carlson and his greens committee, our members, the Village Board and everyone else connected and involved in our club Our objective going forward is to continue to grow and improve upon the 'Village Jewel'. We are all hard at work at the present to meet this goal.
We have many summer jobs still available. Camp counselor and lifeguard positions are hiring for the 2021 summer season. Call the Village Center Recreation Department (631) 473-4778 and get an application emailed to you. Also, If you are interested in a grounds maintenance position, contact Brian MacMillan BMacMillan@portjeffcc.com.
One of the great things about Port Jefferson is how many activities we have made available to you. Our recreation department offers many programs. Click here https://portjeff.com/programs/ to sign up for our summer programs and camps.
We are a community where our values are reflected in our local character. From our Jewel of a Country Club to our programs to jobs for our youth, Port Jefferson is the perfect place to call home. I know I'm honored to be a part of the team that makes all of this work.
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from Trustee Kathianne Snaden
It’s the busy season and we are knee-deep in preparation. Here are some initiatives I am implementing:
As your commissioner of public safety, I am reviewing and improving the safety of our village. I am working with our Code Department to increase personnel on duty. We now have seamless shift changes. What does that mean for our residents? There will be an officer on duty during every shift change. If you call code at (631) 774-0066, that call will go directly to the Supervising officer on duty. We have also implemented a dedicated Main Street officer to patrol, at all times, in one of our busiest areas.
Next, our bicycle task force meets regularly to review the protocol and implementation of our bicycle code. (Village of Port Jefferson, NY Bicycle ecode360.com) The new code gives us greater enforcement abilities. We always welcome all riders, who ride safely and obey traffic laws.
I am excited to share that we’re using new technology to streamline parking enforcement and increase efficiency. By leveraging this new technology, we provide parking enforcement that is both cost-effective and integrated.
There are 2 easy ways to get your updated parking sticker if you haven't already done so. Stop by Village Hall during regular business hours or go online anytime to fill out the Resident Parking Sticker Application.
The Barnum Ave parking lot is now open to the public and is free to park. Each month the parking committee convenes for a public meeting. To help turnover, we recently decided to allow this lot to remain free in an effort to incentivize employees to park there instead of the prime parking spots in front of the shops and restaurants. Already, we’ve had a lot of positive feedback. Please note that overnight parking is prohibited.
Our Village Court resumed regular in-person sessions last month.
The Architectural review committee has been hard at work reviewing some exciting new plans for buildings coming to the Village. As liaison to this committee, I was excited to see the latest architectural plans for the Ferry building as well as the development at the former Lobster House corner. We will continue to work with the architects and engineers on this exciting development.
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from Trustee Rebecca Kassay
Spring is finally here, and I'm here to tell you about two upcoming opportunities to get outside and enjoy some fresh air in the Village...
There are many ways to embrace this incredible Village. One way is to be an active steward of our shoreline, and on April 18th, everyone who cherishes Port Jefferson has an opportunity to do just that. Local nonprofit Hometown Hope is heading up a massive beach cleanup effort in celebration of Earth Day. The cleanup will cover all Village beaches, coordinating efforts from groups like Scouts, contributions from local businesses like SeaTow, Maggios, and Sheep Pasture Landscaping, and of course, a little bit of energy from many individuals and families like you and yours! With a big turnout, our beaches will be pristine for us and all other creatures to enjoy as the weather warms up. If you're able to join- even for an hour or so- please sign up here: https://forms.gle/uD1qwF1wPtzt6CAL9
Port Jefferson's first Community Garden project at Beach Street parkland is well on its way! The marvelous Community Garden Committee is working tirelessly to build and open this garden to residents as early in the growing season as possible. They have set a groundbreaking date of May 1st, with a ribbon-cutting set for June 5th. If you'd like to be kept in the loop about renting a raised bed, attending programming, and/or volunteering your time or funds, please sign up for the email list at this link: https://forms.gle/xYnpfn4xWa3eG4ra6
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LET'S MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Clean Up Now for Later...
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