|
A Message
from MAYOR MARGOT GARANT
| |
|
This Village is so vibrant and full of cultural experiences and rich history! I have been so blessed to work alongside each and every volunteer group and committee, each bringing a focused purpose to enriching our youth programs, historic preservation, and the arts and theatrics.
A special shout out to the Historical Society and congratulations to the newly elected board and Nick Acompora for his over 22 years of service as President! We look forward to partnering with you on the preservation and restoration of the Tooker home on Upper Sheep Pasture this spring as we near closing on the purchase transaction thanks to funds secured from NY State Dept. of Historic Preservation spearheaded by former Assemblyman Englebright. Quite possibly the oldest structure in the Town according to historical records, this important landmark will be a beautiful new gateway for Port Jefferson as you travel east on what was "The King's Highway" back in the early 1700s.
Congratulations also to Mark Sternberg, a graduate of Earl L Vandermeulen, who has since earned both his CPA and Law licenses to practice entertainment law. He has put Port Jefferson on the worldwide historical map with his discoveries related to the Culper Spy Ring, which authenticated and provided distinct proof that Port Jefferson was concentric to the earliest formation of the CIA, providing General Washington with intelligence to help overthrow the British government during the Revolutionary War. You can visit Mark at the Drowned Meadow Cottage Museum, open during all large Port Jefferson events, for a historical tour of these historical acts and events.
Thank you to the hundreds of volunteers who help make Port Jefferson the greatest destination for a day or a lifetime!
| |
|
ITS TIME FOR BRANCH PICK UP
Making yard clean up easier.
| |
|
We know Spring is a busy time for you, and we want to make your yard cleanup more manageable. That's why we're offering our annual branch pick-up starting April 3rd (Check out the image below to see when the Highway Department will be in your neighborhood.) The next branch pick-up will be in October. So get your branches out at the curb three to five days before your scheduled time. After April 21st, 2023, branches must be 4' long, tied in bundles, and put out at your curb.
Here is an essential thing to remember -
Loose leaves, grass, tree logs, tree stumps, and tree trunks will not be picked up. This is a branch-only pick-up. If any of the debris that is not allowed is mixed in with the branches, the pick-up becomes ineligible.
So if you've got some branches that need to be removed, we'll see you this April!
| |
|
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
New SCWA conservation policies.
| |
|
You may have heard that the Suffolk County Water Authority (SCWA) passed two resolutions to reduce water usage and increase conservation. We wanted to let you know what these resolutions are.
Starting February 1st, 2023, the following resolutions are in effect:
| |
|
From the SCWA website:
The first resolution mandates irrigation use based on an odd–even schedule combined with a prohibition of watering between the hottest parts of the day. Simply put, if your home or business is an odd number, you would water on odd days, and not on even days. If your home or business is an even number, you would water on even days. No one is to water between the hours of 10am and 4pm. These are the hottest parts of the day, where water is least likely to penetrate your plants and grass, and simply evaporate off in the heat.
| |
|
The second resolution provides incentives for those residents who use water saving methods in and around their homes. The Authority's Water Wise Account Credit Program will allow the customer to earn an account credit of up to two hundred and fifty dollars per account for three years, simply by purchasing water conserving devices and utilizing them in the home. A simple rain sensor, pool cover, or smart irrigation device can save you on your water bill. Previously, the credit was limited to fifty dollars per account and was a lifetime credit. The Authority has expanded the credit to other devices to encourage water conservation.
All of the information about the new resolutions is on the Suffolk County Water Authority website. CLICK HERE to go there
| |
|
Our Commissioner of Environmental Sustainability, Trustee Rebecca Kassay, has some helpful information to help us conserve water.
We all know about turning off the faucet when brushing our teeth and reducing shower time, but what else can you do to conserve fresh water? Reducing your water use at home is a simple way to save money and help to avoid local water shortages. If each resident follows even one of these suggestions for outdoor water conservation, our community can make a big difference!
1) When springtime rolls around, raise your lawn mower cutting height an inch or two, or ask your landscapers to adjust their machines. Longer grass blades help shade each other, cut down on evaporation, and inhibit weed growth. Alternatively, reduce lawn size or mow less frequently- and enjoy the time or money savings from that decision!
2) Some plants are thirstier than others. Instead of planting species that evolved for other climates- including grass - you can plant flowers, shrubs, and trees that are native to Long Island so that they will not require irrigation after getting established in your yard. Bonus - these beautiful native plants attract a host of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife for your viewing pleasure.
3) Purchase a shut-off nozzle for your hose, or replace the leaky one that soaks you every time you use it. This can save 5-7 gallons each minute your hose is on.
| |
|
4) Use organic matter, such as compost, chopped-up leaves, or composted manure, to supplement your soil. These organic materials increase the water-holding capacity of the soil. A good rule of thumb is to add 1 inch of compost per year.
5) Collect water from your roof to use in your garden by installing a rain barrel along gutter downspouts. Barrels and DIY kits are available locally and online.
| |
from Deputy Mayor Kathianne Snaden | |
|
I've always viewed the month of March as a time when nature starts to wake up from the long sleep of winter. We at Village Hall don't get the benefit of a long winter's nap, but we definitely shift into busy season mode with new programs, initiatives, and beautification projects, to name a few.
Our LPR technology for parking has prompted us to update the signage in the lots. These sign updates will remind folks to make a note of their license plate numbers to pay for their parking, whether through the very convenient and efficient app on their phone or manually at the meter.
Speaking of signs, the Architectural Review Committee has requested a possible change requiring murals to be added to the sign code. While we love the beautiful artistic aesthetic that the murals bring to the Village, there is a fine line as to what constitutes a "sign," especially when placed on a business. I will be looking into this code and potential change with Mr. Rich Harris, our Deputy Village Attorney in charge of the Building and Planning Dept.
| |  |
|
As Spring blooms appear, as well as buds and leaves on trees and shrubs, they can cause an issue with lines of sight at intersections throughout the Village. If you see this as a problem in your neighborhood, please contact us through our RESIDENT PORTAL or directly to me at Trustee-Snaden@Portjeff.com. I'd be happy to take a look with Mr. Steve Gallagher, our Superintendent of Highway, to develop a solution that best keeps our motorists and pedestrians safe.
Safety being my number one concern, I will attend the School District Safety meeting later this month with a member of our Code Department. This collaboration with the school has strengthened our safety initiative for our kids. These meetings are a great way to keep both the school and the Village apprised of what each is doing and how we can best work hand in hand for the benefit of our kids.
Another collaboration I am working on is with our Fire Department. In the near future, be on the lookout for Port Jeff's Bravest to contribute to the eReport. I am looking forward to this great addition to the newsletter!
| |
Kathianne Snaden
Trustee
Deputy Mayor, Port Jefferson Village
| |
TECHNOLOGY FOR A BETTER PARKING EXPERIENCE | |
|
Our parking lots are busy in the summer, and we want you to know it's just not about cars.
There's also technology.
We're working hard to improve your quality of life by making parking more accessible. The Parking and Mobility Administrator, Kevin Wood, has implemented advanced technology to make parking in the Village more convenient and create turnover—so more spaces become available. As we gear up for the busy summer season when parking becomes a challenge, we wanted to share the advanced technology that goes into our parking network.
License Plate Readers: We hope you have all signed up for the new License Plate Reader parking permit system. Signing up is all done online. It's a streamlined process that makes it simple to sign up, especially in the future when it is time to renew. Our Code vehicles will be able to scan your plate and immediately know you are a resident, allowing you to park the resident lots and enter East and West Beaches. Please be sure and register for your virtual permit at www.portjeff.com/residentparking
| |
|
Parking Signage: The Barnum Avenue Parking Lot has an electronic sign that tells you how many spaces are available in the lot. No more circling a lot to see if there is a space. You will know if you should enter the lot at a glance. This Spring, you will be seeing an additional sign in the CVS parking lot. We are able to use the CVS lot in partnership with the Gitto group. These are the type of conveniences that improve our quality of life.
"PASSPort," a Resident Ride-Share Program: This is another initiative on the horizon. As liaison to parking and mobility, Deputy Mayor Kathianne Snaden has been working this past year to bring a ride-share program to the residents of Port Jefferson. Our ride-share program is in the beta testing stage. It's a pilot program where residents can request rides from their homes straight into downtown and back again through an app similar to Uber. Then you make a simple request on the app when you're ready to return home, and a car will be sent right over.
It's great for us all because of the many benefits, including saving parking spaces, safe rides to and from the Village, and reducing traffic congestion and vehicle carbon emissions.
There will be a small fee for each ride. We expect the program to be released in April. You can get further information by texting: 631-403-6184
The Village is constantly striving to provide the best services for our residents, and the implementation of tech will continue to make spending time in the Village easier than ever!
| |
|
SENIOR PROGRAMS EXPANDING
Sign up and enjoy!
| |
Port Jeff Recreation is offering new ways for seniors to get active and enjoy the company of friends and family. | |
|
Our Seniors Program is adding a day to the roster. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, seniors can take gentle chair exercise classes, watercolor painting, and pencil drawing classes, join a book club or the knitter's corner, or participate in the Here and Now Cafe for individuals with memory loss and their caretakers. Registration for these activities is available online. CLICK HERE to register.
These programs are free for residents and $10 per class for non-residents. Transportation may be provided for Village residents.
| |
|
OAKWOOD ROAD PROJECT IS COMPLETE
And keeping the neighborhood dry.
| |
|
Hurricane Ida caused a blowout of a recharge basin that runs from Old Homestead Rd to Oakwood Rd. These infiltration basins are engineered sumps used to manage stormwater runoff and prevent flooding and downstream erosion.
The Village applied for funds from FEMA under the Ida disaster declaration to repair the basin, and the job is now complete.
Thank you to our administrative team and the Treasurer's office for getting the repairs done and doing everything you can to create the smallest financial burden.
| |
|
LEARN ABOUT CLIMATE RESILIENCE
at home in your pajamas or be there in person.
| |
|
Knowledge is power! Flooding is an issue in Port Jefferson. Here is an opportunity to get information about the national and local data regarding climate resilience and learn about projects that the Village has currently undertaken and projects that are possible in the future.
Climate resilience affects all of us. Our infrastructure, commercial district, and homes can all be impacted.
Join us in person: Join us online: (In your comfy clothes)
Date: April 5th YouTube: Inc. Village of Port Jefferson-Official
Time: 6:30 pm Time: Watch Live or view the recording
Location: Village Hall Location: Any place you want to watch
"We don't have a choice but to work on understanding and mitigating the effects of climate change. The more that Board members and residents alike understand the past, current, and future effects of climate change on our Village, the more prepared we will be to make informed decisions as a community." Shares Trustee Rebecca Kassay.
There will be a survey after the presentation that you can participate in until May 5th.
Join us and be a part of the solution!
| |
|
SPRING - We are almost there……though the actual date is still a few weeks away, the Country Club and Parks departments are busy preparing for Spring's arrival. They have so much to do, and I would like to share some of those tasks with you so we can all see and understand the value of these two vital departments. Dave Melious (our Parks department head ) and his super crew have an endless list of pre-spring jobs that all seem to have the same deadline. The many requests "all are the most important and must be done by a certain date." The amazing part of this story is; "the department has always met the deadlines. As we look at our Village, parks, beaches, and all of the types of equipment attached, we need to appreciate the work of the Parks Department. Work that includes; spring cleanups of all the parks, renovations to Caroline field, East and West beach bathroom upgrades, repairs and renovations to all of our Kayak racks, repairing damaged walkways, signs, Etc., Etc….. As these jobs are completed, the department will prepare the tennis and basketball facilities for our recreation programs.
We are fortunate to have so many wonderful facilities and have a hard-working department to keep them wonderful.
UP AT THE COUNTRY CLUB………The word "BUSY "is an understatement. Pat Sullivan and Jeff Welischer (our golf course superintendents) have brought back our seasonal staff to begin the cleanup of the golf course in preparation for the April 1st opening. Can you imagine cleaning branches, twigs, and leaves from an area that is over 100 acres? Well, the bosses and the crew "get it done, "and they do a great job!
| | |
|
Jake Anderson and Larry Scortichini ( our PGA professionals ) are busy filling the staffing needs to ensure complete service to the members and guests. They have also put together schedules for staff, clinics, and tournaments. The operation at the country club is complex and can be challenging; however, we have added a component that will (and already has) made our operation more efficient. Maybe the word "component" is misleading, and a better word would be "Staff position." We have created the position of General Manager and have been extremely fortunate to find someone with an extensive background in golf course operations and strong restaurant management experience. With that being said, I would like to introduce Tom Natola as our General Manager. Tom had formally managed all of Arnold Palmer's golf courses. (does that name ring a bell?) and most recently held the position of manager of the present tenant at the club. Tom has already made significant inroads into our relationships with the Clubhouse and Turn management. With Tom's help, I am confident we will see vast improvements in our social and recreational partnerships. Tom has his office in the former membership office - please stop over to introduce yourself and say hello!
PS: We have a "WELCOME BACK MEMBERS" event on April 1st at 6:00. Members will receive an invitation and an RSVP.
AND……..If you are a new resident? WE HAVE "A NEW RESIDENT EVENT" on March 30th at 7:00 at Village Hall. It's an excellent opportunity to meet and pick up all kinds of information about the wonderful Village that you just moved to.
Stan
Trustee, Port Jefferson
trustee-loucks@portjeff.com
| |
|
WELCOME TOM NATOLA
The new General Manager at the Port Jefferson Country Club
| |
Tom Natola has a long history of success in the golf industry. He grew up on golf courses, where his family was involved in the supervision and maintenance of the Worcester Country Club. With more than 30 years of experience under his belt, Tom has held management positions at single- and multi-course facilities and hotel operations. Prior to his most recent seven-year Chief Operating Officer position at a landmark New York country club, Tom was the Eastern Director of Operations for Arnold Palmer Golf Management.
He brings incredible knowledge about what it takes to run a successful country club, and our members will benefit from his vast experience.
As the general manager at Port Jefferson Country Club, Tom leads all aspects of the Club and will make sure that every event goes off without a hitch. In this role, he will work with his professional staff to ensure an exceptional golf experience for every member. His careful attention to detail has been a significant benefit in overseeing all aspects of operations and management of our beautiful facility.
Tom has hit the ground running. "I am excited to be a part of this great country club. We have one of the best teams available and are excited about the new season. Not only are they dedicated professionals, but they also bring out the best in member hospitality. We have been busy over the offseason doing much needed work on the golf course and creating a sense of arrival when you drive to the property. The team and I are proud to bring this beautiful facility into the future." says Tom.
We are so grateful to have Tom Natola in this new position, and we can't wait to see what is coming next!
| | | |
|
KAYAK APPLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE NOW
We are getting ready for Summer!
| |
|
This year we have 234 racks that can be rented. Centennial Park has 36, 144 are at the Crystal Brook Hollow location, and 54 are at East Beach (The plan is to have East Beach back open). You can have up to two vessels in your designated spot, but both require separate permits.
To get your application for the lottery online:
-
Go to www.portjeff.com/forms.
- Scroll down to the Village Hall section, click on the Kayak application form, and print it.
-
Fill out the application and send it or take it to Village Hall by April 1st.
Address your envelope to:
Kayak Lottery
121 West Broadway
Port Jefferson, New York 11777
The lottery drawing will be held during the first week of April!
Make sure you get in on the lottery to use the convenient racks at the water's edge.
| |
|
RECREATION UPGRADES
Improvements we all can enjoy!
| |
|
The recreation and parks departments have been busy getting ready for summer! Some of our recreation facilities are getting an upgrade. We hope you and your family will enjoy all of them!
The Bathrooms at East Beach will be freshened up by our Parks Department. Dave Melious and his team have built a wall between stalls, and new sinks, hand dryers, and lighting have been ordered. Then they'll top it off with a nice coat of paint, and we'll be ready to go.
West beach bathrooms will have a mini facelift with upgraded lighting and a fresh coat of paint.
The basketball court: We are looking into features for increased safety. Stay tuned. Improvements are coming.
We hope to see you enjoying our recreation facilities this summer!
| |
|
WHO'S READY FOR A CHILI CRAWL?
Enjoy tastings from 12 different restaurants - Delish!
| |
|
The Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce and Port Jefferson BID are hosting a Chili Crawl at 12 amazing restaurants here in the village on March 18th from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. The cost is $25. Purchase the limited-quantity tickets in person at the Chamber of Commerce 118 W. Broadway. Chambers hours are 11:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday thru Friday. Or online on Eventbrite (they add a $3.52 fee). To purchase online, CLICK HERE
Additional activities that day:
Horse and Carriage rides are from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. You must queue in front of the Harborview Christian Church on E. Main Street to have a ride. The cost is $12 per person.
| |
|
Custom classic cars from the LI Street Rod Association will be displayed throughout the Village at five locations from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm:
Mill Creek near Port Jeff Brewery
Roger's PJ Frigate: Main Street and East Broadway
East Main St. south end on the west side
Rocketship Park
Meadow Lot near PJ Lobster House
Live outdoor music at Port Jeff Brewery from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm at no cost.
The event rain date is March 25th.
Come down and enjoy all the great things the day has to offer!
| |
from Trustee Rebecca Kassay
| |
|
Dear residents,
What a relief and joy to see the crocus and snow- drops blooming throughout the Village: spring is around the corner!
Last month, at the request of the Conservation Advisory Council, I spent some time seeking out and finally recovering a 2001 Port Jefferson Village Open Space Plan from a local library archive. (Yet another reason to be grateful for our very own Port Jeff Free Library!) The CAC plans to update these 20+ year old maps and discuss recommendations for present-day Port Jefferson Village regarding Open Space. Municipalities across the country are beginning to understand and embrace the economic benefits of open space, finding that the preservation of open space can save money for taxpayers: the loss of open space often creates a need for expensive taxpayer-funded infrastructure projects.
Earlier this week, it was an honor to facilitate a meeting between Port Jefferson Village and the U.S. Geological Survey to learn more about USGS's Compound Flood Risk studies and to advocate for PJV to be chosen as a location for a detailed compound flood analysis during Phase Two of this project.
| | |
|
From national studies to regional webinars to Village planning and resident action, I strive to connect the Village to resources which bring clarity to the complex factors contributing to Village flooding. By identifying effective community and governmental strategies to mitigate local flooding and other effects of climate change, our Village can achieve climate resilience.
Speaking of such efforts, please mark your calendars for the educational public workshop on April 5th, 6:30-8:00pm at Village Hall (second floor); for those who cannot attend that evening or wish to interact with the workshop virtually, this presentation will also be recorded and available on the Village's Youtube channel on April 6th, along with a survey to collect opinions on the present and future state of Port Jefferson Village climate resilience. Your voice will help to direct the Village's next steps, so please make the time to view this presentation and take the survey.
As the weather warms up and April rolls around, keep an eye out for announcements regarding: the CAC's second annual community tree and shrub sapling giveaway; invitations to help spruce up the Village's pollinator gardens; a Walk Safe with a Doc program as part of a movement towards safer 'complete streets'; Beach Street Community Garden programming; and more!
Rebecca Kassay
Port Jefferson Village Trustee
| |
"Village residents of all ages are looking forward to a more walkable (and bikeable) Village. As the Village works on plans for complete streets- streets designed for pedestrian and cyclist use as well as vehicles- programs like this offer tips for pedestrian safety as well as information on the health benefits of moving around the Village on their own two feet!" - Trustee Kassay | | | |
|
KEEPING US MOVING
THANK YOU!
Thank you, Highway Department, for all of your hard work and dedication Your team's efforts positively impact our community. We appreciate everything that you do to keep our roads moving along smoothly!
| |
|
VOGUE IN THE VILLAGE FASHION SHOW
Fashion, fun, and friends.
| |
Bring your friends and enjoy the glitz and glam of a runway-style fashion show at Theatre Three. The live show will feature the latest hair design, clothing, and accessories from 10+ local boutiques and salons. Inspired by fashion weeks in the Hamptons and NYC, you will be dazzled by the variety of the latest styles and trends. You might even see someone you know on the runway. | |
|
In addition to the fashion show is an open marketplace downstairs featuring local boutiques and salons featuring clothing, jewelry, and accessories. The marketplace will be open before the show, so you can shop til you drop!
Join the PJ Chamber of Commerce and Fedora Lounge Boutique Hair Salon on Sunday, April 23rd. Doors open at 6:00 pm for the marketplace downstairs, and the fashion show starts in the Theatre at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $20 at the door or on PayPal.
Amazing fashions. Amazing people. Amazing time. Join the fun!
| |
|
|
What's New in Recreation for March
Easy online Registration @ www.PortJeff.com
(631) 802-2160
| |
|
ADULT
Adult Beginner Tennis
Adult Intermediate Tennis
Art Oil Painting
Cornhole League
Softball League
Dog Training Classes
Pickleball
Senior Clubs
Women's Talk
Writer's Journey
Huner's Fitness Programs:
Call (631) 974-4747
Horseback Riding:
Call (631) 802-2160
Karate by Tae Kwon Do:
Call (631) 630-6575
| |
|
YOUTH
Summer Camp
Discovery Camp
Coed Youth Baseball/Pitch
Basketball Camp
Basketball Coed Clinic
Pickleball
Swim Lessons
Teen Tennis Club 12-17vrs
Youth Tennis Green 7-10 yrs
Youth Tennis Red 4-6 vrs
| |
|
SENIOR CLUBS
Watercolor - Wed
Gentle Chair Exercise- Wed
Book Club - Wed
Here & Now - Thurs
Knitter's Nook/Crochet Corner - Thurs
Pencil Drawing - Thurs
| |
TRIPS
NY Botanical Gardens
Broadway: Camelot
Broadway: Pictures From Home with Nathan Lane
| |
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! | |
|
It is so rewarding to introduce you to all of our great employees. You get to see precisely what they do and how well they do it.
Danielle Condia, the membership coordinator at the country club, is one of those people we want to show off. We want to shout it from the rooftops! Let's start with what Trustee Stan Loucks (the Country Club liaison) says about Danielle "Danielle is a sweetheart. She is an excellent worker, totally reliable, bright, friendly, and personable to everyone." Stan continues, " She is extremely helpful with members' questions and concerns. As in every business, there are always key people. At the Country Club, Danielle is that person!"
If you've ever needed assistance at the country club regarding financial and membership matters, you have spoken to Danielle. She has been in that role for the last six years and is extraordinarily good at what she does! Danielle expertly handles everything related to membership, from setting up new accounts to collecting late payments. In her role, she provides members with a constant source of information, answers all questions, and helps individuals that need to address any issues.
"The best thing about my position is my ability to interact with so many different types of people who are involved with an activity that they love to do. Residents should know that I am here to be of service all year round and am always happy to assist in any way I can." shares Danielle. Now, here is what we have to say - Danielle is an educated, positive individual who loves her job, making her an asset to the Village. She works harder than most while maintaining a positive attitude.
The Head Golf Professional at the club, Jake Anderson, said this about Danielle "Danielle has a big heart and an innate ability to make people smile and feel like they can be themselves. She has a way about her that eases members' worries and relates to them. She is extremely well organized and finds solutions to not only club issues but ideas to better serve our members. She is a team player and always willing to step into any role that is needed. Danielle is a strong asset to the Club, and we are very lucky to have her."
So, if you decide that you want to give our country club a try, Danielle will expertly guide you through the process.
See you on the links!
| |
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.
| | | | | | |
