Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Smithtown public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in development with medium priority
EV charging stations in Lake Grove
IONNA wants to place six EV charging stations right at the front lot line on Nesconset Highway — a sign of expanding charging infrastructure in town, but with zero front setback.
Branchinelli's Site Plan & Septic Upgrade
Branchinelli's is expanding its parking lot and upgrading its septic system by filling in an old recharge basin. The changes aim to improve traffic flow and solve under-capacity septic issues at the Route 111 location.
Gyrodyne LLC Preliminary Approval Extension
Gyrodyne's St. James subdivision got another six months of conditional preliminary approval while it works through Suffolk County's sewer agency. Low drama, no public opposition — just the clock ticking on a long-running application.
Spark Car Wash Development in Lake Grove
A new car wash facility was approved on Middle Country Road with environmental restrictions to protect endangered bat habitats during construction.
Temporary Family Living Quarters Special Exception
A family sought approval to convert a garage into temporary living quarters for an aging parent, highlighting multigenerational housing needs in the town.
Foxwood Estates Subdivision Infrastructure Completion
The developer of Foxwood Estates needed more time to finish installing street lights, signs, and trees in the nearly complete four-lot subdivision.
Subdivision and Bond Time Extensions
The Planning Board approved time extensions for four ongoing subdivision projects across St. James, Fort Salonga, and Nesconset. These extensions give developers extra time to coordinate with county health and sewer agencies or complete administrative steps for bond releases.
Bassen Estates Driveway Modification and Tree Preservation
A developer requested switching from a shared driveway to an individual private driveway on River Road in St. James. A neighboring resident raised strong concerns about increased traffic speeds, poor sightlines, stormwater debris, and local wildlife disruption, prompting the board to mandate specific tree protections.
T-Mobile Wireless Facility Installation
T-Mobile is adding a new wireless facility to improve local cell service. The board approved the project after confirming it won't harm the environment, with rules to keep the equipment painted and screened.