Brentwood Student Recognized For Activism Against Littering

BRENTWOOD, NY — A Brentwood High School student was recently recognized by town officials for his community activism.

Edwin Haynes was recognized by the Islip Town Board on Tuesday, after he wrote a letter in November expressing his concern about littering.

He also recommended to increase the penalty for doing so in public places, in order to further dissuade litterers and reduce pollution in Islip's streets and communities.

During the meeting, the Town Board voted unanimously to hold a Public Hearing to consider adopting such an amendment to the Islip Town Code.

"I have seen many people littering in the streets, and I think if you approve my suggestion, people would think twice before littering the streets for fear of a higher fine," Edwin wrote in his letter.

Islip Superviosr Angie Carpenter thanked Edwin for reaching out to her office.

"These are the first steps of turning thought into action, and leveraging the power of your local government to affect tangible positive change," she said.

Edwin was joined by Brentwood High School principal Dr. Dashana Dulin, social studies teacher Jose Salgado, social studies department head Paula Santorelli, and members of the Town Board.