Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Riverhead public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in development
Jamesport minor subdivision and 1980s anti-subdivision covenant
A 6.27-acre parcel can't be split into two lots unless the board amends a decades-old covenant meant to protect Main Road's traffic safety. The board is waiting to hear the applicant's case before deciding.
Youngs Farm Development Rights Acquisition
The board accepted appraisals for a joint purchase of development rights at Youngs Farm — a step forward in preserving the farmland.
Brownfield cleanup grant
North Shore Sprinkler Supply is legalizing paving, drainage and landscaping work done without town approval after a 2023 state environmental violation. The work is largely done and drew praise from the board for its appearance.
Indoor agricultural facility at 645 Grumman Boulevard
A 126,000-square-foot indoor growing facility is planned for 645 Grumman Blvd. in Calverton, with ten acres of pine barrens preserved. The board set parking at 121 spaces based on an expert workforce analysis.
Petrocelli Master Developer Closing and IDA Benefits
A resident questioned whether a law firm representing both a developer and the town creates conflicts, and whether the Master Developer can actually complete the downtown project. It's a question of confidence in the town's biggest redevelopment effort.
Sandy Pond Trade Shops vs. Commercial Storage
John McAuliff questioned whether the approved 'trade shops' at Sandy Pond golf course were meant to allow contractor storage rental, arguing the large buildings hurt the site's aesthetics.
Andersson Acres subdivision school district split
A revived ~70-acre subdivision across the LIRR tracks won approval of its 35-lot yield map and 33-lot cluster sketch plan, preserving just over 70% of the land and splitting between two school districts.
Verizon tower at 285 Hubbard Avenue
A new 120-foot stealth tower is proposed next to homes and Fire Station 2. Staff wants landscaping to screen the tired Verizon maintenance yard and an FAA compliance report; the tower could later grow to 130 feet under the code.
Baiting Hollow Golf Club cell tower flag debate
Elite Towers wants a 140-foot monopole on Sound Avenue, but the residential zoning doesn't allow it — a use variance is needed. Visual impact along the scenic corridor is the big question.
Walmart supercenter expansion at 1890 Old Country Road
Walmart wants to add a grocery section and about 27,000 square feet to its Old Country Road store, turning it into a supercenter with EV chargers and online pickup. The board wants the parking lot trees kept and a less boxy building design before the plan moves ahead.