Lawmakers Hold Environmental Roundtable, A 'Unique Forum' On LI

RIVERHEAD, NY — Lawmakers gathered Thursday to discuss the critical issues facing the area's natural environment.

New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo and New York State Assemblyman Fred Thiele, Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio, and Assemblyman Ed Flood held the environmental roundtable in Riverhead.

The annual meeting brings together the region’s elected officials, environmental advocates, and area stakeholders to discuss and build upon past efforts to protect the environment and natural resources in Suffolk County and to discuss concerns and issues that will help shape this year’s legislative agenda, Palumbo said.

"I'm grateful for the opportunity to again host this year's environmental roundtable, which in the past has been the impetus for landmark legislation such as the Community Preservation Fund, the expansion of that program to fund water quality initiatives, erosion mitigation measures, and numerous sustainability and environmental protection policies," said Palumbo. "This is a unique forum that brings together stakeholders from throughout our area to brainstorm and identify solutions that can be incorporated into meaningful and effective legislation. I am thankful for the thoughtful insights and engagement from community leaders and elected officials, which are invaluable to our ongoing efforts to preserve the East End's unique quality of life while at the same time balancing the needs of the agricultural and aquacultural communities."

Thiele said he was grateful for the insightful discussions at the event. "Collaborating with dedicated leaders is crucial for shaping our legislative agenda to protect Long Island's environment. In Albany, I'm committed to securing state funding for initiatives that assist in essential environmental protection and programming. Conservation is key to maintaining our unique quality of life here on the East End and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come."

And, said Giglio: "Our environment is the lifeblood of the East End, and our success depends on preserving that environment for today, and the future."

Working farms, active fisheries, scenic vistas, and clean water are the foundation upon which community success is based, she said. "I thank each of you for continuing to support that which is so precious to our families, and I thank my fellow elected officials for their efforts to ensure these resources receive the funding they deserve. Our unwavering united support for the environment demonstrates the importance of this cause, and I pledge to continue that support, now and in the future."

Addressing climate change and environmental concerns is crucial to helping preserve New York State for future generations to enjoy, Flood said.

"Through conversations at Senator Palumbo’s annual Environmental Roundtable event, we can implement plans and discuss ideas to address ways to protect our waterways and ensure clean drinking water and beaches for people to enjoy."

Congressman Nick Lalota also attended, as did Suffolk County Legislators Steven Englebright and Ann Welker, Southold Town Supervisor Al Krupski, Village of Westhampton Beach Mayor Ralph Urban, Village of Sagaponack Mayor William Tillotson, President of Suffolk County Community College Edward T. Bonahue, and representatives from Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine’s office.

Organizations in attendance at the event included the Long Island Pine Barrens Society, SUNY Stony Brook University, Peconic Land Trust, Long Island Farm Bureau, Suffolk County Department of Economic Development & Planning, the East Hampton International Dark Sky Association, Save the Sound, North Fork Environmental Council, Setauket Harbor Task Force, The Nature Conservancy, Suffolk County Community College Sustainability Program, PJ Citizens for Open Space, Peconic Baykeeper, and NY Sea Grant.

"In 2022, New Yorkers overwhelmingly approved the Environmental Bond Act, equipping our state with a historic $4.2 billion to enhance environmental conservation and reduce the state’s carbon emissions. As lawmakers, we bear the responsibility to ensure that these funds are spent wisely and as effectively as possible. Our conversations today help guide our efforts as we work toward achieving these important goals," Palumbo said.