Mayor’s Message – April 2022
A MESSAGE FROM LINDENHURST MAYOR MICHAEL LAVORATA
Spring is a season of fresh beginnings, and a time to appreciate the beauty of nature that surrounds us. Flowers are blooming, trees are coming back to life, and the sun is shining! We are fortunate to live on the South Shore of Long Island, with the beautiful Great South Bay, and our ocean beaches. I encourage all of you to get outside and take advantage of all the warm, spring weather and outdoor activities our Lindenhurst community has to offer.
We kicked off spring with our first-ever Lindenhurst St. Patrick’s Parade, and it was an overwhelming social success! With dark clouds in the distance, St. Patrick blessed us as the sun shone down on Wellwood Avenue and the thousands of residents and visitors who lined the street to cheer on the hundreds of parade marchers. Irish pipers, drummers, dancers, local firefighters, scouting troops, fraternal groups, community organizations, businesses, and elected officials all joined in the fun. A big thank you to the Parade Committee David Crowe, RJ Renna, Kevin McCaffrey, and Katie Schrader, and to our inaugural Parade Grand Marshal Peter King, and his lovely wife, Grand “Marshalette” Rosemary.
This spring also brought us a Village Election, and our re-elected officials were sworn in to office on Village Organization Night. Trustee Maryann Weckerle, Trustee Patrick M. Pichicher, and Village Justice H. John Bopp were collectively sworn in by Suffolk County District Court Judge James McDonaugh, and I had the privilege that night of re-appointing Trustee Weckerle as my Deputy Mayor. I am thankful to these public servants, and the entire Village Board and staff, for their tireless dedication and commitment to making the Village of Lindenhurst the greatest place to live, work, and play!
Congratulations are also in order to our Lindenhurst Fire Department Chiefs and Officers who were recently sworn in for another year of service to our community – Chief Michael DeGregorio, 1st Assistant Chief David Collins, 2nd Assistant Chief Robert Santos, 3rd Assistant Chief Jonathan Cutolo, Secretary Charles Vozzo, and Treasurer Sarah-Marie Callahan. On behalf of the people of the Lindenhurst community, thank you for your selfless service!
Finally I hope we all take an opportunity this spring to remember others and how we can help our neighbors, because that is what makes Lindenhurst so special. I hope we all remember to do nice things, lend a helping hand, and be thankful in return. Perhaps offering a token of appreciation could go a long way for your neighbor.
I am so proud to be the Mayor of this beautiful, blossoming, and bustling Village.
Mayor’s Message – March 2022
As you may know, Governor Hochul has at least for now, removed the Accessory Dwelling Unit mandate from the NY State Budget. You may also know that it was included in a budget rather than debated as a separate issue. If not for the amazing work of the Suffolk County Village Officials Association (SCVOA) and our Counsel, it may have not been detected and could have passed along with the overall budget.
The SCVOA, of which I am honored to have recently been elected as one of the Vice-Presidents, worked tirelessly with our Villages, as well as our Town and County officials here in Suffolk County. Our Executive Director Paul Tonna, a former Presiding Officer in the Suffolk County Legislature worked with the many members of the SCVOA Executive Board from the west end of the county to the east end. There were many meetings and conference calls during this episode. We stood tall and united as a unit against the Governor’s assault on our local zoning.
I also want to thank many of our local elected officials who also supported our efforts especially Suffolk County Legislator and Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey for his press conference 2 weeks ago. We had many elected officials from both sides of the aisle in our court. Thanks to Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer for his support along with his colleagues on the Town Board, Village of Amityville Mayor Dennis Siry and Village of Babylon Mayor Mary Adams.
A special thanks to our very own Lindenhurst Village Board of Trustees, as well. We worked tirelessly to fight this together!
But I really want to thank you, the people, for sharing social media posts and signing petitions against this assault on our “Home Rule” which not only protects our zoning but our overall suburban way of life. No one will deny that there is a housing crisis in the State. However, this mandate is not the way to solve it. We have enough parking issues, battered infrastructures and crowded schools right now. Besides, Lindenhurst as does many Villages, already has a Two-Family Review Board that handles accessory apartments. We need not have the state tell us how to handle our affairs lest they cannot manage their own.
You have helped us Save Our Suburbs. But the fight is NOT over. This coup could be attempted again so we need to remain vigilant. Once again, thanks for your help. You folks are amazing! I could not be prouder, and I am honored to serve as your mayor.
God bless you all,
Michael A. Lavorata
Mayor
Mayor’s Message – January 11, 2022
A MESSAGE FROM LINDENHURST MAYOR MICHAEL LAVORATA
Happy New Year! 2022 got off to a snowy start with our first winter storm on January 7th. A big thank you to Superintendent of Public Works Rick Sorrentino, and the entire Village Department of Public Works team, for an outstanding job clearing the snow and keeping our roadways safe for travel.
In the last days of 2021, I took a little time to reflect on the past year and all we were able to accomplish together, in spite of the challenges we faced. You can read my reflection in my Mayor’s Message – January 2022, which can be found on our Village website – www.villageoflindenhurstny.gov
On a County level, we recently celebrated the inauguration of the newly elected Suffolk County Legislature. I would personally like to congratulate Legislator Kevin J. McCaffrey on not only his re-election, but his new status as the Presiding Officer of the Suffolk County Legislature. It is such a benefit to our Lindenhurst community to be so well represented in the County Legislature. This is also a historic event, in that it is the first time a Lindenhurst Village resident has been elected by the legislature to serve as its Presiding Officer. I am so incredibly proud of Legislator McCaffrey and his representation of our hometown. I, along with the Village Board, am grateful for his leadership and representation.
Unfortunately, we did not leave the COVID-19 Pandemic behind in 2021, and it seems like January 2022 is like déjà vu. As I write this message, according to Newsday, the number of cases identified on average per day over the most recent week in the Village is 112.14 (5,786 in Suffolk County), compared to the previous week’s average of 90.86 (4,932 in Suffolk County). In addition, New York State Governor Hochul has extended the mask mandate to February 1, 2022, and announced new measures to combat the virus in New York State. The most up-to-date guidance from the State regarding testing, vaccine, and quarantine guidelines, can be found at: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/home
Finally, I encourage all of our Lindenhurst residents to step up and take as many precautions as we can to reduce the spread of the virus. I know we are all dealing with “Pandemic burn out”, and many resent the inconveniences of the current mandate. However, masks and vaccines continue to be our best protection against serious illness. It has been reported that many vaccinated individuals who have tested positive for the virus have experienced less serious symptoms than infections among the unvaccinated. If you have not already done so, please consider get vaccinated and boosted.
As always, I remain proud to serve as your Mayor.
Mayor’s Message – January 2022
January 2022 brings the beginning of a New Year. It is important to recognize all of the Village’s accomplishments from this past year. Despite a global pandemic that significantly limited our ability to be out and about in the community, I am still amazed at what our Village forces accomplished. None of the Village services we provide, or the progress we continue to make, would be possible without our dedicated Village Board – Deputy Mayor Maryann Weckerle, and Trustees Joan M. Masterson, RJ Renna, and Patrick M. Pichichero – and committed Village staff, led by Administrator Clerk Douglas Madlon and Deputy Administrator Clerk Joe Barone, our Department of Public Works employees, led by Superintendent Rick Sorrentino, and our Lindenhurst Fire Department, led by Chief Michael DeGregorio, 1st Assistant Chief David Collins, 2nd Assistant Chief Robert Santos, and 3rd Assistant Chief Jonathan Cutolo. I cannot say enough how proud I am of our entire Village team.
The following projects were accomplished during 2021:
- The ongoing revitalization of our historic Village Downtown Business District. The Village welcomed 13 new businesses in our downtown last year during the height of the pandemic.
- The ongoing upgrades to the Lindenhurst Fire Department equipment, including purchasing a new aerial truck, a fire rescue boat, and two ambulances.
- The completion of the New York Rising federally funded Shore Road Waterfront Park Natural Systems Resiliency Improvements project, bulkhead replacements on South 4th Street and Fall Street, and Albany Avenue drainage and roadway improvements.
- The ongoing improvements to the Rainbow Senior Center, including the installation of solar panels, the installation of a generator, and the renovation of an under-used, neglected part of the building that can now be utilized by the seniors and the community.
- The implementation of a sustainable, green, energy-efficient initiative to reduce the carbon footprint of the Village. The Village-wide initiative encompasses 10 buildings, two parks, Village parking lots, and the marina.
- The completed renovation of our Old Village Hall Museum at Irmisch Historical Park on South Broadway, and to the Village Historical House Museum on South Wellwood.
In addition to the on-going projects the Village team continues to provide high-quality constituent services, while processing record numbers of applications, permits, and renewals from members of the Lindenhurst Community. The Village staff is hard at work throughout the year putting in extra effort and hours to get the job done. They are dedicated to listening to our residents and finding ways to meet the needs of our community. They are passionate about what they do, and enjoy helping those we serve.
As your Mayor, I am committed to working with the Village Board to continue our efforts in the New Year. Together, we are excited to keep the momentum going with many projects and community events in the works.
I am also very committed to working with residents, our business community, Chamber of Commerce, Business Improvement District, Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club, and many of our service clubs to bring the best the Lindenhurst Community has to offer. Working in conjunction with our residents and community organizations is a major priority for me and the Village Board as we move into this New Year. Lindenhurst is a wonderful community because of the contributions of everyone who lives and works here. I am very proud to be the Mayor of Lindenhurst.
As I look ahead, it is my hope for all our residents that this exciting New Year of 2022 is ultimately filled with opportunity and joy, and that we celebrate another year together in our beautiful Village.
Mayor’s Message- December 27, 2021
The Village of Lindenhurst wishes all our residents a safe, healthy, and Happy New Year. With COVID-19 Omicron variant again on the rise, residents are advised to exercise caution when gathering with friends and family, or being around people in public places such as stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The COVID-19 Omicron variant is very contagious, and can be spread from an infected person’s mouth or nose in small, liquid particles when they cough, sneeze, speak, sing, or breathe.
I know the “Pandemic burn-out” so many of us are feeling, but let me once again suggest:
- Follow the Governor’s mandate to wear a mask.
- Wash/Sanitize your hands as often as you can.
- Consider getting vaccinated and vaccine boosters.
Let’s look forward to a more prosperous, joyous, and healthier 2022 for us all. We remain “Lindy Strong” and we will get through this!
Mayor’s Message – December 15, 2021
A mask mandate for shops and other indoor spaces in New York State took effect on Monday, December 13th to confront a surge in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. Governor Hochul’s mandate requires masks to be worn in all indoor public buildings, unless the businesses or venues implement a vaccine requirement. The mask mandate will be in effect until January 15, 2022.
At this stage, Lindenhurst residents have no other choice but to comply with the Governor’s mask mandate. I am in favor everyone doing everything possible to keep ourselves and each other healthy. I am very impressed that many of our Lindenhurst residents have already gotten vaccinated and have taken common-sense steps to deal with this never-ending pandemic. Our local businesses, who have already suffered so much already, are also working to keep the public safe. We are all feeling the effects of “pandemic fatigue”, but with the Delta and Omicron variants still very strong, we must be vigilant. As your Mayor, I appreciate your patience and cooperation through this next phase. We are “Lindenhurst Strong”, and we will see it through and endure.
Mayor’s Message – December 2021
As the weather changes, I would like to remind residents that driving during the winter months can be extremely dangerous, especially when it snows. However, driving with extra caution, and adhering to the rules of the road, can help ensure safe passage for all motorists. Motorists can enhance safety, visibility, and mobility throughout the season by making sure that our vehicles are winter-ready. Before driving, be sure to clear all windows, lights, and external mirrors of snow and ice, be observant of roadway conditions, and proceed at appropriate speeds.
In the event of a snow emergency, be alert to weather advisories. If you do not need to travel, stay put until the roads are cleared of snow and ice. If you must drive: 1) Plan alternate ways and allow extra time to travel to main routes and to your place of destination; 2) Slow down, brake slowly, and allow plenty of room between you and the vehicle ahead of you; 3) During times of reduced visibility, watch for pedestrians, bicycles, and disabled vehicles; 4) Maintain your vehicle properly. Check your car battery and replenish antifreeze and windshield washer fluids. Always keep a flashlight, snowbrush, ice scraper, jumper cables, blankets, and an extra set of clothes in your vehicle, and finally, 5) Keep a cell phone and charger handy.
As soon as you are aware that bad weather is on the way, make every effort to keep your car off the street. This protects your car from being plowed in, or being hit by passing vehicles, and the snowplow has space to safely plow the snow. In general, when shoveling out the mouth of your driveway, throw the snow to the right of your driveway (when facing the street). Throwing or plowing snow into the road can create a patch of snow and ice and cause a hazardous condition. It is unlawful to shovel or dump snow into spaces reserved for handicap parking.
It is important to the Village administration that we continue to hear the ideas, suggestions, and concerns of our residents. If you have something you would like to share with the Village Board, please contact Village Hall at 631-957-7500 or info@villageoflindenhurstny.gov.
Along with the Board of Trustees, our administrative staff, and all the employees of the Village, we look forward to continuing to serve the Village to the best of our abilities for the betterment of Lindenhurst.
Mayor’s Message
A COVID-19 UPDATE FROM LINDENHURST MAYOR MICHAEL LAVORATA
This is a reminder that all adults, 18-years or older, are now eligible for a booster shot at any vaccine location, as long as it has been at least six (6) months after your last Pfizer or Moderna shot, or at least two (2) months after your one-dose Johnson & Johnson shot.
With the holidays approaching, and the Delta variant continuing to impact the Long Island region and our Lindenhurst Community, I encourage everyone eligible to consider getting the booster shot. Let us all enjoy the holidays with family, friends, and new acquaintances during this most festive time of year!
Thanksgiving Message from Mayor Lavorata
The Holiday Season is here, and we are hoping you are feeling joyful. Thanksgiving is Thursday, November 25th, and although this has not been the easiest year, there is plenty for us to be thankful for.
For many of us, the meaning of Thanksgiving usually includes eating, four-day weekends, football games, family reunions, and shopping as we embark on the Christmas Season. Thanksgiving is also a time to give thanks. As your Mayor, I am thankful for our Lindenhurst Community. I am thankful for all the good things going on in our Village. Thank you for your kindness, compassion, and dedication during these difficult days of Pandemic. It is a joy and a privilege to serve as your Mayor.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, our administrative staff, and all our Village employees, have a blessed Thanksgiving with family and friends, and may God bless our Lindenhurst Community.
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