NCC Scholarship

Apply for the Annual NCC Scholarship!

The NCC offers a scholarship for higher education.

Applications are due April 30, 2025.

Click the button to download a PDF of the application or fill out the online form below and attach your essay. Hard copies can be mailed to: NCC, P.O. Box 2565, Sag Harbor, NY 11963, but must be received by April 30, 2025.

Qualifications:

  1. The applicant must be a member or an immediate family member of the Noyac Civic Council.

  2. Must be pursuing higher education after high school. The scholarship is open to both adults as well as young adults.

  3. Demonstrate a need for the scholarship.

  4. Performed community service within the last 5 years.

  5. Applicants shall submit an essay describing why you want to pursue higher educaton, your community service, and why you deserve this scholarship. This essay shall be typewritten, no more than 12 point font, and no more than 1 page.   

A committee of 5 NCC Executive Committee members shall read the essays and select the winner. The scholarship money will be given when the person produces proof of enrolling and/or attending classes.  i.e. receipt from registrar or grades report, etc.

Online application Form:

Past NCC Scholarship Recipients:
2024: Isabelle Caplin, Ryder Esposito, Cassidy Hewett, Tucker Kinney, Eva McKelvey
2022: Jackson Bakes, Wilson Bennett
2021: Brooke Esposito, Rachel McKelvey, Vivienne Witty
2020: Yanni Bitis, Heidi Bucking, Dylan Hewett, Halle Kneeland
2019: Francesca DiSpigna and Sage Witty
2018: Phoebe Bennett and Zebulun Kinney
2017: Spencer Chase and Aris Witty
2016: Donald Bender, Katie Bucking, Arlena Burns, Ciara Weatherell
2015: Duncan Bennett, Robbie Evjen, Angela Fierst
2014: Sara Bucking and May Evjen
2013: Brendan Shiel, Kendra Weatherell and Jesse Petrucci
2012: Emily Verneuille and Jessica Spehler
2011: Nicole Jonat
2010: Michael Remkus

Sand Land Mine and our Drinking Water

 March 1, 2025

On February 25th, 2025, the Town Board closed the public hearing on the proposed amortization code, leaving open a period of time to receive comments from the Suffolk County Planning Commission which have not yet been received.  

Last month the Town Board adopted a resolution establishing the Town Board as lead agency for SEQRA purposes. The next step in the process is to complete the Environmental Assessment Form (EAF) which the Supervisor expects to happen in March. 

Read 27East article: Southampton Town Board Closes Hearing on Sand Mine Amortization but Delays Action.

 January 27, 2025

Southampton Town Public Hearing: Tuesday, January, 28th at 1PM.

The discussion on phasing out nonconforming sand mines from residentially-zoned areas in the Town of Southampton will continue on Tuesday, January 28 at 1 p.m. at Town Hall. Please join us for this imperative meeting. 

UPDATE - Jan 30, 2025:

Councilman Pell stated at the Jan. 28th Town Board meeting that the Town received comments back from the ZBA and Pine Barrens Commission, but not back from the Planning Board yet, so he would like to hold off the hearing until February 25th (a night meeting), but people were allowed to make comments.

Click here to view the meeting video.

At last December’s hearing, several community members and clean water advocates spoke out in favor of passing this law that would phase out nonconforming sand mines through a process called amortization.* 

*Amortization is a process that provides mine owners a defined length of time in which they must end operations and begin site reclamation. That time period, ranging between one to seven years, is based on existing permits from New York State. Once reclaimed, mine owners will still have rights on the property that are consistent with current, low-intensity, land use standards. As a result, the Town’s drinking water reserves will be better protected, and the character of individual neighborhoods will be better preserved for the future.

After decades of sand mines being allowed to operate in residentially-zoned areas, despite having been deemed as nonconforming 50 years ago, the proposed amortization of these mines seems to be a reasonable approach to ultimately remove these industrial operations, better protect our drinking water reserves, preserve community character, and restore our natural resources in the broadest interest of the public. Once closed, these mines can begin their required site reclamation and establish land-use rights under the current zoning and land-use requirements.

Few natural resources are as vital to the future of Southampton as our drinking water reserves. The continued operation of intensive industrial uses is contrary to decades of town planning, zoning, land use, and public investment decisions.

We urge the Town to move forward with this initiative and do their part to protect our precious water supply while supporting the goals of its comprehensive plan.

 December 10, 2024

TODAY is a public hearing on the legislation to amortize sand mines in Southampton Town. Please attend if you can. Southampton Town Hall, 116 Hampton St, 1pm

We urge the Southampton Town Board to support the newly proposed local law regarding the amortization of nonconforming sand mines (Article XXXII) (Resolution 245-2015) and enforce its zoning laws.

Read 27East Article: “Southampton Town Board To Hold Hearing on Sand Mine Amortization” by Stephen J Kotz

Read Dan’s Papers Article: “Sand Wars: Has the DEC Stacked the Deck to Protect Sand Mines?” By Alec Rich

Click here for a link to Group for the East End’s sample letter to send to the Southampton Town Board. You may edit this letter as you see fit before sending.

Click button below to view the Town’s meeting video. Many people spoke on this subject at Public Hearing Item 5 which starts at 55:20. Each speaker that spoke for the proposal came from a slightly different angle.

 February 5, 2024

Sand Land Mine

Above Photo from East Hampton Star Article, October 5, 2023

“Sand Land Mine Accused of Operating Illegally” Photo Caption: The deeper they dig, the closer they get to groundwater at the Sand Land mine in Noyac. - Christopher Gangemi

An article in 27 East on January 24th reported an update on the Sand Land Mine saga stating Sand Land Mine (SL) closed its Middle Line Highway facility on Dec. 22. This sounds like good news, but the NCC is skeptical.

This is what we have been told…

Under DEC’s current reclamation plan agreed to in 2013, the mine is now over 40 feet deeper and 3 acres wider than it’s properly issued permit.

Following the unanimous Court of Appeals ruling on Feb 9, 2023, Sand Land removed 2,351 tractor trailers of sand mined outside their legally permitted boundaries. Many of these trucks took the sand to the location in Wainscott. It is estimated there is about a year’s worth of sand stockpiled there.

In October 2023, Tintle (Sand Land’s owner) applied for a 11.8 acre expansion of the mine, proposing to mine all the way to Middleline Highway. The DEC asked Southampton Town if the expansion was within the town’s zoning regulations. The Town replied that it was not and therefore, the DEC could not process the application. The DEC asked Sand Land to obtain zoning approval from the Town for what could be an expanded pre-existing non-conforming use, a use variance or a change of zoning. Sand Land would first need to go to the building inspector for a ruling and then could apply to the ZBA.

Concerns:

  • Will the DEC allow Sand Land keep all the illegally mined sand and not require reclamation according to the requirements of the existing plan? Seems the 2,351 trucks of sand should not have left the site and that sand would have been very useful in the reclamation.

  • If the DEC makes Sand Land raise the floor back to its legal level, Sand Land might import fill and non-native material which could make the situation even worse.

Southampton Town should pass amortization legislation that would allow them to close Sand Land and bring it into conformity with current zoning. It seems to be the only proven legal remedy since Tintle has ignored over 300 tickets, 2 Stop Work Orders, 3 injunctions and an unanimous ruling by NY state’s highest court annulling their permits. Tintle has paid no fines for all the issued town violations. No sand excavation was ever allowed below 160 asml under any properly allowed permit.

This is ultimately about protecting our drinking water source.

“it’s important to remember that this decade-long conflict revolves solely around the long-term protection of our underground drinking water supply, a resource recognized as critical by every level of government and broadly supported through extensive public investment for decades.”

-Bob Deluca, President Group for the East End

Wainscott Sand and Gravel Aerial photo

Above Photo from 27 East Article, January 24, 2024

“Sand Land, Noyac Mine Long in the Crosshairs of Opponents, Closes; Operations Head to Wainscott” by Stephen Kotz. Photo Credit: Michael Wright

 December 7, 2023

A New York Times article about sand mining in general and Sand Land mine in particular.

“Sand Mining Threatens Long Island’s Drinking Water. Or Does It?”
By Hilary Howard, NY Times

exerpt:

"Sand mining is prohibited in Southampton, a municipality of about 70,000 residents in Suffolk County on Long Island. But Sand Land, which has been in operation since the 1960s, was grandfathered into the area’s zoning plans in the ’70s.

…“The latest major ruling was in February, when New York’s highest court annulled permits that included expansion requests that the Department of Environmental Conservation had issued to the mine without seeking the town’s approval. Sand Land was ordered to halt mining.

But since then, over 2,500 trucks, estimated to be carrying over 100 million pounds of sand, have left the mine, according to legal documents. Sand Land contends that it is removing stockpiled material, not excavating it.”

… “And even as opponents of Sand Land insist that any operation at the mine violates court orders, the company has doubled down. In October, Sand Land requested permission to dig on an additional 11 to 12 of the property’s 50 acres.”

This is just the most recent example of Sand Land Corporation’s utter contempt for the environment and the rule of law,” said Brian J. Sexton, a lawyer representing the coalition.”


October 3, 2023

When will our Town and State DEC actually enforce the law???

The Noyac Civic Council is so disappointed in the DEC and the Town for not enforcing the latest injunction. Why are they not actively protecting our drinking water? Thank goodness we have Assemblyman Fred Thiele, Jr. and other legislators fighting for us in Albany. Read their letter and recent article in 27East below.

Letter to the Governor Kathy Hochul September 27, 2023

from Legislators State Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr.,  State Senator Kevin Thomas, State Senator Monica R. Martinez, State Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages. cc: Basil Seggos, DEC Commissioner:

27East Article: “Sand Land Mine in Noyac Still Digging Away, Despite Court Orders”

“I have practiced law for 45 years now, and I have never seen a situation where the highest court in the state has issued a specific order and is being ignored,” Thiele said. “And the agency responsible for enforcing that order is sitting on their hands.”

April 13, 2023

Image from Sag Harbor Express Article by Stephen J. Kotz, Apr 12, 2023

“Despite Court Order, New Activity at Sand Land Mine in Noyac”

“because Sand Land no longer has a valid permit, any work at the site is illegal and must be stopped," added Bob Deluca, Group for the East End

February 16, 2023

A Decision from the State’s Highest Court, but…

Read this article carefully. Unless the DEC and Town act swiftly in the public’s best interest to protect our drinking water supply, it seems to sound like Sand Land will continue operations while this could further remain in the courts.

December 22, 2022

and again…

Judge Baisely, Riverhead, cancelled our cases again and rescheduled conferences for February.

Separately, the Court of Appeals argument in Albany is scheduled for January 3, 2023. It looks like it’s scheduled for 2pm and will be LIVE streamed: https://www.nycourts.gov/ctapps/

Town of Southampton v DEC (No. 1). APL 2022-17. Mines and Minerals—Mined Law Reclamation Law--Whether section 23-2703 (3) of the Mined Land Reclamation Law bars the Department of Environmental Conservation from processing the renewal and modification permits sought for a preexisting mine because the local zoning code prohibits mining in the Suffolk County District where the mine is located. 

December 2, 2022

the can gets kicked down the road again...

The Sand Land case was supposed to be heard by the Appellate Court on November 15. The Judge Baisely announced an adjournment the night before the conference yet again and rescheduled for December 22.

November 15, 2022

Appellate Division will Hear Sand Land Appeal

Stay tuned…

September 19, 2022

Sand Land Appeals Court Rulings, again…

The Town of Southampton was successful in challenging the permit issued by the DEC to the Sand Land Mine (see below). Sand Land appealed a lower court ruling that upheld the nullification of Sand Land’s DEC permit. The Court of Appeals will hear this case on Nov. 15, 2022.

May 29, 2021

APPELLATE DIVISION OVERTURNS STATE SUPREME COURT RULING ON MINE EXPANSION PERMIT

TOWN’S LOCAL ZONING LAWS UPHELD

Dear NCC members,

On Thursday, May 27, the NYS Appellate Division of the Supreme Court annulled the 2019 DEC permit allowing the Sand Land Mine to dig deeper (and closer to our aquifer) and to expand horizontally. The Court ruled that the DEC overstepped its authority in granting a permit. The DEC ignored the Town’s zoning laws and the authority to protect its drinking water when the DEC issued this 2019 permit.

Read more about this landmark victory by clicking the buttons below.

The Noyac Civic Council worked tirelessly to get the DEC to protect our ground water rather than allow the expansion of operations at the Sand Land Mine when contamination in our aquifer beneath the Mine was made known by the Suffolk County Health Department.

We thank all our members who supported the NCC in this endeavor. Also thanks to the Group for the East End, the Citizens’ Campaign for the Environment, The Town of Southampton, and the Southampton Civic Coalition for supporting this endeavor.

Sincerely,

Elena Loreto, President NCC and the Executive Committee

Please click on images below for Our local officials responses to Sand Land's continuing operations. the Mine ignores the Appellate Court's decision which annulled the Mine's permit.

September 2, 2020

Illegal Activities Continue…

“Sand Land is in violation of the latest certificate of occupancy, local zoning laws and Southampton Town Code…”

  • February 13, 2020: The Town Board sent a letter to DEC promising to “assert its jurisdiction and take all necessary legal, civil, code enforcement and police action to stop illegal operations ...”

  • May 22, 2020: Southampton Town issued a “Cease and Desist Order” to Sand Land.

  • June 11, 2020: NYS Supreme Court issued an injunction restraining illegal activities occurring at Sand Land.

  • August 10, 2020: The NCC joined Assemblyman Fred Thiele, Legislator Bridget Fleming, Group for the East End, Citizens’ Campaign for the Environment and Southampton Town Civic Coalition in issuing a Press Release appealing the Town of Southampton to enforce their laws (9 years after being cited as illegal) and follow the recent court order aimed to protect groundwater and prevent illegal industrial operations at the Mine.

  • August 26, 2020: Town Attorney James Burke Press Release response: The Town is addressing the violations with additional court actions, has done many site reviews and Code Enforcement investigations, and on July 14th and July 17th the Town demanded the “immediate removal of all non-permitted materials being processed, stored, sold and delivered to Sand Land.”

  • Sept. 11, 2020: Date for court dockets.

July 30, 2020

The Town of Southampton finally got an injunction from Judge Denise Molia to force the Sand Land Mine to stop the processing of vegetative waste and construction and demolition debris. In response to this injunction, Town Attorney James Burke said, “We have more teeth... If they do things in violation of the injunction, they can be held in contempt of court….A judge can find them in contempt of court and fine them or threaten them with jail time.” (Express News Group June 18, 2020. p.A3- read article).

However, we are disappointed to learn that the Town has been slow in issuing tickets. There is evidence that the Mine is still accepting and storing crushed stone which is not mined at this facility. As Bob DeLuca, President of the Group for the East End, wrote to the NYS DEC, “Recently acquired aerial photographs of the subject facility clearly document substantial and potentially polluting non-mining activities including the storage and processing of vegetative waste and other off-site materials on the property… Evidence of these materials (past or present) clearly demonstrates the potential for a significant environmental impact.”

The Mine is in violation of the Zoning Code.

The NCC’s co-litigants and attorneys are pursuing this issue with the Town asking:

Why is a facility allowed to conduct operations that – according to the Health Dept. – have contaminated groundwater?

The NCC will continue to monitor what the Town is allowing to happen.

What Can You Do?

Call or write the Town Council and ask what they are doing to enforce Town Code. Encourage them to send a "Cease & desist" letter to Sand Land.

Supervisor Jay Schneiderman: 631-283-6055
Town Board: 631-287-5745

July 10, 2020

Please click below to read NCC President, Elena Loreto’s letter to Mr. John Weiland, NYSDEC Reg. 1 Headquarters RE: NYSDEC Application 1-4736-00539/00001 East Coast Mines and Materials Corp. 40’ depth expansion/ 110/5 acres with final depth to groundwater @ 10 feet.

Opposition to Negative Declaration

May 18, 2020

Sand Land is up and running – accepting bluestone, etc., in violation of Town Code

The NCC sent a petition, now with over 2200 signatures, to the DEC demanding a public hearing addressing our concerns. The DEC has not responded to our petition. Instead, on May 1, 2020, the DEC sent a notice declaring the extension of Sand Land Mine’s permit for another 8 years skirting the concerns we’ve raised. Click below to read:
NCC letter to DEC 2/13/20. 
Southampton Town Board Public Comment Letter to DEC 2-13-20
DEC Permit to Sand Land 5-1-20
DEC response to individual citizen letter 5/1/20

Assemblyman Fred Thiele Jr. is equally upset with the DEC and told the NCC, “This will require further litigation, once the courts re-open. The burden is really on the Town to challenge this, since this decision illegally invades their zoning authority by granting permission for something that is not permitted by the Town Zoning Code.”  

The NCC also contacted Supervisor Schneiderman about the Town’s next steps and Town Attorney James Burke informed us that Code Enforcement personnel will “keep a close watch on any importation of materials to the site and the town will also be contacting the Regional DEC office to remind them that it is clear that any such importation of materials to the site is in violation of town code and the decisions of the ZBA and Appellate Courts of State of New York.”
 

The DEC needs to give the public full disclosure and access to all groundwater testing results and reveal who is the party doing the groundwater testing.

Remember the contaminants, pesticides and carcinogens found in the aquifer by the Health Department’s testing? The DEC is not addressing those results nor coming up with a remediation plan to clean up the contamination. The NCC will not stop until the aquifer (the water source for everyone on the East End) is cleaned up and no longer a threat to public health. 
 

What Can You Do?

Email the Town Council and ask what they are doing to enforce Town Code. Encourage them to send a "Cease & desist" letter to Sand Land.

PGodfrey@southamptontownny.gov  (secretary to the Town Council)    and/or JSchneiderman@southamptontownny.gov
Supervisor Jay Schneiderman: 631-283-6055
Town Board: 631-287-5745

Please click below to read letters to the DEC from the NCC and Southampton Town regarding Sand Land’s permit application as described below.

February 4, 2020

DNA3695sandland.jpg

SAND LAND has filed for a new permit modification

The proposed application threatens our sole source aquifer (and one of the deepest groundwater recharge areas on the East End) that has been adversely impacted by activities at Sand Land Mine as already determined by the Suffolk County Department of Health (SCDH)

Sign the Petition

— PLEASE SIGN —
Demand the NYS DEC protect our water!

The public wants to know what the DEC is doing to protect our groundwater and clean up contamination.

We DEMAND that the NYS DEC:

  • Deny the January, 2020 Sand Land Mine’s application [to modify its existing permit to allow importation of crushed stone, crushed concrete aggregate, compost] because it is illegal, in violation of the law, the Town Code, and three Appellate Court rulings. (Click here to read the application)

  • Deny bringing these materials on site because it violates the DEC’s own promise that these materials would all be removed from the site permanently.

  • Immediately perform quarterly groundwater testing via Suffolk County Dept. of Health (SCDH) on the site.

  • Hold a Public Hearing before issuing any permit

  • Release ALL groundwater testing methods and reports done on the site.

Image: Sag Harbor Express

A TRO (a Temporary Restraining Order) has been granted against the Sand Land Mine from the Appellate Division.

This prevents mining deeper until the Supreme Court Judge issues a decision on our preliminary injunction. Written in the Sag Harbor Express article below, “As part of the modified permit, Sand Land must establish a groundwater monitoring plan that requires testing groundwater samples at the mine site on a quarterly basis. All test results must be submitted to the DEC for review.”

This is some great news! But our work is not over yet. The NCC will not rest until we are assured of contamination cleanup and environmentally safe/legal operations. The DEC must be held accountable for their flip-flop settlement and not recognizing the contamination reported by Suffolk County Dept. of Health Services.

Click here to read the Sag Harbor Express Article

REMINDER to contact the DEC:

Deadline: April 19, 2019

The April 19th deadline for public comments on the DEC’s flip -flop on issuing a permit for the Sand Land Mine is quickly approaching. The DEC is not acting in the best interests of those who use water on the East End. WE NEED A PUBLIC HEARING ON THIS MATTER AS WE HAD ON OCTOBER 20, 2015. PLEASE SEND A NOTE TO THE DEC BEFORE FRIDAY, APRIL 19. Below are a few sample notes that you may wish to copy. Please feel free to share this note with your friends and neighbors.

Send to:
Mark Carrara
NYS DEC Region 1, Division of Environmental Permits
SUNY @ Stony Brook
50 Circle Road
Stony Brook, NY 11790
mark.carrara@dec.ny.gov

Please cc: ThieleF@assembly.state.ny.us and JSchneiderman@southamptontownny.gov and NoyacCivic@optimum.net

Sample Notes:

We demand a Public Hearing immediately on the recent issuance of a permit for the Sand Land Mine its operations. The Suffolk County Health Department found that the Mine’s activities have contributed contaminants to our groundwater beneath the Mine. Excessive lead, iron, manganese, carcinogens and pesticides are some of the contaminants cited in the June 29, 2018 Health Department’s report. As residents in the area who rely on this aquifer as our source of water, we have many questions as to why the DEC issues this permit contrary to the DEC’s removal of the Mine’s permit in September, 2018. We want Commissioner Basil Seggos and Region 1 Director Carrie Gallagher to answer our questions and hear our concerns at this public hearing.
OR
Why did the DEC issue a permit to a known polluter, the Sand Land Mine, on March 20, 2019, when in September, 2018 the DEC modifies the Mine’s permit citing its contamination of our aquifer? I demand that the DEC hear our concerns and answer our questions at a Public Hearing immediately.
OR
How can the DEC, the protector of our environment, issue a permit to a known polluter, the Sand Land Mine? In September, 2018, the DEC modified the Mine’s permit because of the contamination of our aquifer beneath the Mine. The Suffolk County Health Department reported the contamination caused by the Mine’s operations in a report issued on June 29, 2018. In addition, the DEC states in this letter that there is “de minimus” sand left in the Mine. So how can the Mine excavate 40 feet deeper if there is no sand left to mine? For these reasons, we demand a Public Hearing on the DEC’s issuance of a permit on March 20, 2019 to the Sand Land Mine. The community has many questions and concerns the the DEC has not answered.
OR
On October 20, 2015 the DEC had a public hearing on the Sand Land Mine’s application to expand. Now that the Mine has been given another permit, despite the DEC’s permit modification in September, 2018, we demand another public hearing immediately.

March 27, 2019

Outrage over DEC settlement with Sand Land Mine!

On March 22, several members from the NCC, Bridgehampton CAC, and Save Sag Harbor met with Assemblyman Fred Thiele to ask what can be done regarding the recent DEC settlement with Sand Land Mine. We also attended the Town Council meeting on March 26, but more help is needed from residents to protect our precious water.

The NCC is urging all residents to :

  • Tell the Town Board to Demand a Public Hearing with DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos and DEC Region 1 Director Carrie Gallagher in attendance.

  • Flood the DEC and every elected official with comments.

  • Tell Southampton Town Board that they need to legally challenge the settlement.

Screen Shot 2019-03-27 at 8.45.01 PM.png

Groups call for Gov. Cuomo to shut down

Sand Land Mine

Click here to watch News 12 Coverage

February 26, 2019

Dear Town Attorney, Supervisor Schneiderman, and Southampon Town Board -

Thank you for the detailed and concise email following up on our meeting. In light of a recent notice from Town ZBA that Sandland’s Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is still in question and was again postponed, we have many questions...

The obvious abuse of operation rights has led to a public and environmental health issue that is not being remedied. As we delve further, there are several facts that are upsetting in that the Town has seemingly not taken more enforcement and action on.

Based on the Suffolk County Health Department 2018 report and investigator’s photo/video, it is clear that Sandland has contaminated the aquifer and unregulated practices are occurring.

The CO, dated 2016 (click here to view copy of CO) seems contradictory to the Town’s statement that new mines are not allowed.

This CO states they can operate their sand mine including the storage, sale and delivery of sand, receipt of trees, brush, stumps leave and OTHER DEBRIS. [so they can essentially, legally operate as a dump! What defines “other debris”?] BUT It goes on to state: However, the processing of the above (and they list more than was listed in what is accepted) is specifically prohibited. [so here they have clearly been operating illegally since this 2016 CO by accepting and processing what was specifically prohibited.]

Many questions remain:

  • How much has the Town received in fines from illegal practices by SL? (Can we FOIL a record of this?)

  • Why didn’t the Town apply to get the fees from the Appellete court ruling and why hasn’t the Town collected the $6,000?

  • Why hasn’t the Town acted on zoning and variance violations? i.e. A scale is 19 inches from property line, etc.

  • Why isn’t Sand Land continuing to be fined?

  • What has the Town done to ensure SL meets code?Can the Town take the authority to amend the CO?

  • Has the Town seen a site plan to validate this newly requested CO that keeps appearing on ZBA docket?

  • How is it legal for Sand Land to keep applying to the ZBA, have hearings postponed, and still operate?

  • Can a CO be revoked due to illegal and harmful environmental practices?

  • Why was the illegal processing allowed for so long?

  • Who is monitoring recent activity to be sure it meets environmental standards? (Recent grading, storing and sale of material and reclamation)

  • Has the Town been in contact with the DEC over the problems or was the Town’s last contact with the DEC the Supervisor’s letter in July?

  • Why hasn't the Town been contacting the DEC about the myriad of other illegal and unregulated polluting practices?

  • NYS law (Oct2018) allows Town of Southampton to require monitoring of groundwater impacts resulting from mining/reclamation of mining. What is ToS doing to adopt and enforce the law?

  • What is being done to clean up the site? (i.e. remediate the contaminated pools, etc.) Or is the Town ok with letting this contamination sit and seep into the environment?

  • We look forward to hearing back with answers to these questions.

Sincerely,
The Noyac Civic Council

– February 15, 2019 –

The Group for the East End, the Citizens Campaign for the Environment, and the Noyac Civic Council have led the battle charge to clean up the contamination in our aquifer. Here is a letter, dated Feb. 7, 2019, from Bob DeLuca, President of the Group of the East End, worth reading. Below is another letter attached also worth your time. I urge you to write and/or call our Town Supervisor, Jay Schneiderman, and the Town Council to get them to act. Feel free to write to the Sag Harbor Express ( kmenu@sagharborexpress.com) and the Southampton Press (mailbag@pressnewsgroup.com) on this issue. Thank you for your time and interest in our hamlet and the health of our groundwater.

Sincerely,

Elena Loreto, President NCC

Dear Supervisor Schneiderman and Town Board Members,

Among the various issues we are working on with respect to water quality protection, we are currently pursuing the establishment of local laws that will improve groundwater monitoring for State-regulated sand mines and vegetative waste processing facilities.

In brief, and as you know, over the last several years, research conducted by the Suffolk County Health Department and the NYSDEC has confirmed the presence of significant groundwater contamination resulting from the operation of sand mines (in particular, those with ancillary industrial processing operations also operating on the premises).

In response to this emerging source of contamination, Assemblyman Fred Thiele and Senator Ken LaValle have thankfully and successfully gotten an amendment approved by the New York State Legislature and signed by the Governor, that, for the first time, will allow local governments to impose groundwater monitoring requirements on state-regulated sand mines and mine reclamation operations.

The attached letter outlines this issue and recommends that Southhampton Town adopt such necessary local laws as may be required to establish meaningful groundwater monitoring requirements for sand mines and for vegetative waste processing facilities under Town jurisdiction.

Late last week, I sent a similar request to the East Hampton Town Board and have already received some positive feedback on the Board’s interest in moving forward with this measure.

For your additional information, I have attached a copy of Assemblyman Thiele’s bill, which was ultimately signed into law last year. Also, I would be happy to provide you with the full studies issued by the SCDHS, which document the groundwater contamination associated with open pit mines and vegetative waste processing facilities. Given what we have already seen in Wainscott and Noyac, we believe there is a critical need to get out ahead of these potentially polluting uses for the future, especially because the NYSDEC is presently doing very little to contain the potential pollution associated with these industrial land uses.

We note that this endeavor would be highly consistent with the Town of Southampton’s duly-adopted, 2013 Sustainability Element of its Comprehensive Plan (aka Southampton 400+), which sets the following clean water goal for Southampton Town:

"Restore and protect the Town’s ground and surface waters to ensure their ability to support public health and the maritime, recreational and resort activities that underpin Southampton’s way of life and economy.” (p.42)

Thank you for taking the time to review this letter. I would be happy to work with the Town Board or any individual member who wishes to consider further action on this matter, which I hope you will.

All the best,

Bob DeLuca

Please click the following links to supporting files:
Assembly Bill A6314 Memo
SH-GWmonitoring

– December 10, 2018 –

Please click to read:

RULING OF THE CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE ON MOTION TO RENEW AND REARGUE AND ON REQUEST FOR CLARIFICATION

STATEMENT FROM ASSEMBLYMAN FRED W. THIELE

The NCC will be waiting for further clarification on the language therein, but it seems the Chief Administrative Law Judge, James T. McClymonds, has denied Sand Land’s motion to renew and reargue, BUT also put the responsibility back on the Town of Southampton ZBA. See excerpt…

…In this case, the Town ZBA appears to be the ultimate municipal authority vested with jurisdiction to determine whether applicant’s proposed mine expansion is authorized under the Town Code without any further Town approval, or whether a variance is required before the expansion is allowed…

What you can do:

Tell the DEC to address the CONTAMINATION and the Town ZBA to deny the expansion permit once and for all.

The DEC needs to protect our health and safety.
Call or email Governor Cuomo: (518) 474-8390.

September 5, 2018...

NCC President's Letter to Assemblyman Thiele, Jr., Legislator Fleming, Mr. Sapp, and Supervisor Schneiderman. cc. Basil Seggos, Bob Deluca, Adrienne Esposito, James Tomarken:

I am deeply concerned by the DEC ’s lack of response to the Suffolk County Health Department’s report on the water contamination beneath the Sand Land Mine.
    On behalf of the 550+ members of the Noyac Civic Council, I implore you to meet with Commissioner Seggos to find a solution to this problem. I urge you to demand that NO PERMITS shall be issued to the Sand Land Mine by the DEC, the business that, as stated by the Health Department, has negatively affected our aquifer. Time is of the essence. Please let me know when you can arrange this meeting.
    Sincerely,
    Elena Loreto, President Noyac Civic Council

– August 12, 2018 –

*** URGENT CALL FOR ACTION ***

Decision on the Renewal of Sand Land Mine’s Permit is forthcoming...

Email or Call Gov. Cuomo

Governor Cuomo must be engaged to make sure the NYSDEC does its job of protecting our water: Request that Sand Land/Wainscott Sand & Gravel located in the Town of Southampton NOT be issued a renewed permit in November.

Gov. Cuomo needs to hear directly from the public.

NCC members should feel free to remind the Governor that:

  • Waste processing on the site is illegal under Town Code and supported by Court ruling

  • The mine is out of sand.

  • The operations at the site have already contaminated groundwater

  • The facility's operations threaten the drinking water in a State-designated Special Groundwater Protection Area.

  • Despite all of these objective realities, the Governor's DEC has done nothing but ignore the public while actively and willfully concealing readily observable problems at the site — despite irrefutable third party agency data (SCDHS) that the site is in fact contaminating the aquifer.

The aquifer is everyone’s source of water on the East End, even Suffolk County Water.

Note: The DEC has declined to attend our meetings, nor has anyone returned phone calls.

– July 2018 –

The area outlined in purple is the area that was offered free well testing by Suffolk County Health Department.

Sand Land Mine Sits atop our Sole Source Aquifer. Please read the Final Report from Suffolk County Department of Health Services. From the report:

Conclusions
The vegetative waste management activities on the Sand Land site have had significant adverse impacts to the groundwater. The analytical results from the groundwater samples indicate impacts of elevated metals concentrations (in particular manganese and iron) and other groundwater impacts that are consistent with results observed at other VOWM sites throughout Suffolk County1, which have been attributed to the VOWM activities performed at these sites. Detrimental groundwater impacts were observed at the Sand Land site despite the significant depth to groundwater (137 to 154 feet below grade). Additionally, data from wells installed on the site suggest the presence of downward vertical groundwater flow component, indicating this is a vital groundwater protection area. This also suggests that contaminants released on the site may flow into deeper portions of the aquifer.
Recommendations
The SCDHS should complete sampling of the private wells in the survey area to assess possible impacts to private drinking water wells to the west and northwest of the site. Based upon the groundwater information obtained in this investigation, and the results of the private well testing thus far, the extent of the private well survey area previously determined is appropriate.

Suffolk County Legislator Bridget Flemming released the following statement 6/29/18:

"This thorough report describes a groundwater investigation that is the culmination of years of effort by advocates and officials who have tenaciously fought for the protection of our invaluable aquifer, the sole source of drinking water on Long Island, and a critical resource for current and future residents. The report demonstrates definitively that the ongoing activities at this site are polluting our drinking water now and for future generations. The conclusions of the report must be met with swift action. The evidence shows significant negative groundwater impacts from the waste management activities occurring at the site, including manganese exceeding drinking water standards by almost 100 times and iron by over 200 times, as well as elevated levels of contaminants such as thallium, sodium, nitrate, ammonia and gross alpha, despite the significant depth to groundwater at the site. It is therefor imperative that the activity cease unless mitigation measures to effectively prevent groundwater impacts are identified and implemented.

I am grateful to County Executive Steve Bellone, Commissioner Tomarken, and the entire SCDHS staff for their tenacious and highly professional pursuit of an accurate assessment of the groundwater impacts of the activities at the Sandland site. I look forward to continuing to work with officials at all levels of government to ensure that this unacceptable pollution of our drinking water source comes to an end.”

ACTIONS proposed by Assemblyman Fred Thiele:

All levels of government must act and must act now, the assemblyman demanded. He compiled a list of actions that must be taken immediately:

1. We cannot wait until April for the Suffolk County Department of Health Services to release its report on the contamination. The testing was done months ago and the SCDHS has had the raw data for weeks. Their report must be made public in the next two weeks.

2. The SCDHS must also begin to survey for contamination by testing all drinking wells that are down gradient of the contamination.

3. The State DEC must launch a full environmental investigation to determine the full extent of contamination at this location.

4. The State DEC must take action to stop the processing of vegetative waste and other industrial activities until the extent of the contamination is known.

5. The State DEC must reject any expansion of the sand mine at this location
6. The Southampton Town Supervisor must exercise his authority under State Law and inform the State DEC that mining is a prohibited activity under the Southampton Zoning Code.

East Hampton Airport - Report Noise

May 2023 Update:

EAST HAMPTON AIRPORT ALERT: November Route reopening proposed

Reopening of the dreaded November Route was proposed at the May 16 East Hampton Town Board Meeting. This change will effectively bring all helicopter traffic back over the residents of Southampton Town stating as early as this weekend. In the attached video you will hear the speaker say the priority is to “alleviate noise from East Hampton as much as possible.”

It is absolutely outrageous to make Southampton residents the victims of an airport we neither own nor control. That is why the Noyac Civic Council fought hard to have the November Route closed before last summer.

You can make a difference by sending emails and calling elected officials and demand that the November Route remain closed. Please speak up now before the onslaught of helicopter noise and pollution descends on Sag Harbor Village and the Hamlets of Noyac, North Sea, Bridgehampton, Water Mill and Hampton Bays.

2023 Helicopter Routes letter from Southold Town Supervisor

Letter from Southold Town Supervisor to East Hampton Town Supervisor regarding 2023 Helicopter routes. Click image to view PDF.

Town Board Letter re. November Route 5-23

Letter from Southampton Town Supervisor and Council members to East Hampton Town Supervisor regarding 2023 Helicopter routes. Click image to view PDF.

Above is a clip of the East Hampton Town Board Work Session on May16, 2023. Click here to view full meeting. Fast forward to the airport issue starting at 1:00:45.

March 2023 Update:

Ways to submit complaints:

  • AirNoise.io
    The major issue with this is that if the button is purchased, it will identify any aircraft in the vicinity including those which may be headed to or from destinations other than EH Airport. That results in complaints from the Airport staff, who contend that we are filing false complaints!

Verify that the noise is coming from an aircraft using KJPX (the new code identifier which replaced KHTO) by viewing one of the tracking apps:

As you may know the Town of East Hampton will be closing and then reopening the Airport as a Private use Airport (Call Letters: “JPX”) subject to Prior Permission Required (PPR) restrictions beginning on May 19, 2022. The impact of these restrictions will be analyzed through the summer season as part of the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) required for this change. It has been made clear that complaint data will be very important part of this analysis. Many of you have been submitting complaints for many years and may frankly be tired of doing so but the Town will now have the ability to make significant changes to how the Airport operates. Certainly, other areas that may see an uptick in volume caused by these changes will be energized to complain vociferously.

February 18, 2020

FROM THE EASTERN REGION HELICOPTER COUNCIL, INC. …

A meeting to bring together ERHC member operators, community members, FAA, airport managers and elected officials to discuss helicopter noise abatement procedures for the upcoming Summer of 2020.

We hope to see you there and look forward to your active participation. Please register using the button below. In the meantime, should you have any questions or require additional information, please email admin@erhc.org.

No media will be allowed inside the meeting room.

February 3, 2020

Last week was a busy one for the airport stakeholders. A luncheon was held on Thursday at Rowdy Hall hosted by Sag Harbor Express Sessions.

Sold out crowd included aviation community, but seemed to be outnumbered by the noise impacted and environmentalists. Patricia Currie (Noyac resident) was among the 7 panelists. She represented the “Say No to KHTO“ group and she did an excellent job advocating for airport closure/repurposing. Also in attendance were representatives from Sound Aviation (aircraft servicing and fueling at KHTO; owned by Noyac resident Steve Tuma) and Shoreline Aviation (seaplane operator from out of town that flies here). Elected officials included Jeff Bragman (East Hampton Town Council) and Mark Wooley (a representative from Lee Zeldin’s office who is among the impacted on North Fork). Noticeably absent, in spite of being invited, was any representative from the helicopter companies. Their absence was mentioned several times as evidence they have no intention of ever improving the current situation. Kobe Bryant helicopter crash was only mentioned briefly and as respectfully as possible.

Overall the 80 people in attendance were civil to all on the panel. The one exception was toward the end when a pilot accused Jeff Bragman of advocating airport closure. In fact, Jeff did an outstanding job explaining details on several options for improvement that need to be assessed, including closure.

Sound Aviation distributed the postcard shown above that claims to be the proposed routes for the 2020 season to try to reduce noise.

Trout Pond Invasive Species Cleanup

NYS DEC brings you, “Uninvited: The Spread of Invasive Species”. It tells the story of invasive species in NYS and how DEC and their partners are tackling them.

Invasive Weed Cleanups:

June 15, 2024 • 9 AM

It was another successful day pulling out invasives from Trout Pond. Trout Pond is a Noyac gem - let’s keep it beautiful! Many thanks to all the volunteers: NCC members Matt Burns, Debbie Skinner, Nick Maurantonio, Joe and Leo Tremblay, Blair Seagram, John Kirrane, Bridget Kirrane and a special thanks to Town Councilmen Michael Iasilli and Tommy John Schiavoni and Derryl Baumer, Assistant Town Parks Director, and his staff Brendan and Will for supporting us with this effort!

Join Southampton Town Councilman Tommy John Schiavoni and the Parks & Recreation Department for a spring clean-up at Trout Pond. 

Volunteers are invited to assist with the removal of the invasive cabomba weed from the pond using manual raking methods from in and around the shore. Volunteers are encouraged to wear gloves, and be prepared to get a little dirty! 

Tools are limited so if you have a large rake, or skimmer nets, please bring them with you. Rakes should be outfitted with floatation devices or rope so that they can be retrieved easily.

This event will be similar to past cleanups. Click here to read 27 East Article of an event.

Some volunteers brought and used their kayaks and some wore wet suits. This event was successful in eliminating invasive plants. Stay as long as you can.

The Noyac Civic Council will give Community Service for students who participate.

October 14, 2023 • 9 AM

Volunteers are asked to join the Town of Southampton’s Parks & Rec. Department and Councilman Tommy John Schiavoni to help clean up Trout Pond’s invasive species, Cabomba caroliniana, that is overtaking the pond. This event will be similar to the last cleanup done in September 2022. Click here to learn more.

The Parks & Recreation Dept. will supply rakes to pull up the invasive plants and dispose of them. Kayaks are helpful along with rakes and gloves if you have them. Some volunteers wore wet suits as well. This event was very successful in eliminating invasive plants. Stay as long as you can.

Community Service hours given to students who participate. 

May 13, 2023 8am-12pm

Join with the Town of Southampton’s Parks & Rec. Department and Councilman Tommy John Schiavoni to help clean up invasive species (Cabomba caroliniana) at Trout Pond.

On Saturday, May 13, six Noyac Civic Council members once again showed their interest in protecting our precious environment by raking the invasive plants that have been over taking Trout Pond. Councilman Tommy John Schiavoni and Director of Parks and Recreation Kristen Doulos organized the clean up of invasive Cabomba and Milfoil that have been choking the pond. Volunteers raked the heavy invasive plants and piled them on shore. Town employees of the Parks and Recreation Department carted the heavy weeds to a dumpster to dry out. Some of the volunteers used kayaks and surf boards to drag the large rakes toward the middle of the pond. Last September NCC volunteers made a dent in clearing the pond and plan to do so again on June 17. The Noyac community proudly thanks these volunteers. Trout Pond is a loved by many who enjoy swimming, fishing, and snorkeling. 

Parks & Rec explains the species of concern: Cabomba caroliniana and Milfoil are invasive plant species overtaking Trout Pond.

The Noyac Civic Council stepped up to help our community’s precious resources. Our organization joined the Town of Southampton Parks & Rec. Department and our Councilman Tommy John Schiavoni to clean up an invasive species (Cabomba caroliniana) that is overtaking Trout Pond.

A number of Noyac residents endured a cold but beautiful September morning to rake and pull the invasive plants, pile them on shore, and assist Town employees in carting the weed to a dumpster to dry out.

Many of us got soaking wet as we used large rakes to pull and pile the weeds onto our kayaks, into a dinghy, then haul into the wheelbarrows. Sounds like fun??? Actually it was fun to be together with caring community members and make a difference. Many of us love to swim and snorkle in Trout Pond so it was rewarding.

Thanks to these participants: Matt Burns, Joanne Ulrich, John Kirrane, Blair Seagram, Diane Hewett, Kevin Dehler, Chuck Neuman, Alison Sneed, Kristen Doulos (Dir. of Parks & Recreation), Councilman Tommy John Schiavoni, Elena Loreto, and the many Parks & Rec. employees who assisted us. As a precaution, Parks & Rec. even supplied a lifeguard. SunTV 20 was there too and has some great footage of the entire operation. We will post a link once the video is released.

This attempt was a temporary first try as Town reps determine future mitigation. Additional cleanup events are planed for May and June, 2023.

Flooding Issues and Survey

Over the past few years quite a few NCC members have commented on street flooding and/or runoff into the bays in their Noyac neighborhoods, but have not seen solutions to reduce flooding by the town in a reasonable timeframe.

The NCC would like to collect additional information (including pictures) regarding the location of the flooding or runoff into the bays which will be used to help facilitate discussions with appropriate town officials to identify reasonable solutions.

SHUFSD-Marsden

Marsden Prop defeated by 71 votes:

Yes - 1081 / No - 1152

All other props passed.

VOTE MAY 16th

Pierson Middle/High School Gym, 7AM - 9PM

The NCC is making efforts to compile information on this page, adding most current at the top, as it becomes available. Please check back for updates.*

FYI Quick Links:
Visit the District’s Marsden Street Properties web page.
For an opposing view: Citizens of Sag Harbor Website

The NCC hopes everyone will inform themselves and evaluate the bond request accordingly.

*Information on this page is collected and provided with the intent to help our community become informed about this particular topic and may not necessarily reflect the views of the Noyac Civic Council.

Scroll down for more info and updates…

District Budget Hearing & Marsden Properties Forum

MOnday - May 8 at 6:30pm @ Pierson Auditorium

Both events will take place in the Pierson Auditorium and will be accessible remotely through Zoom

6:30 pm Budget Hearing and Board of Education Business Meeting          
7:00 pm Community Forum #4 - Marsden Street Properties

in the news:

Q&A: Sag Harbor Superintendent Jeff Nichols on the Upcoming Marsden Vote, Sag Harbor Express, May 3, 2023

Deep Concerns on Marsden Street, Editorial, East Hampton Star, May 4, 2023

District Hosted Public Forum: Marsden Properties

Wednesday - April 26th at 6:30pm

at Pierson Auditorium

This will be a public forum addressing the proposed acquisition of the Marsden Street Properties.

Bond Referendum info to be included in SHUFSD Annual Budget Vote on Tuesday, May 16, 2023

Click here to read the District Election Legal Notice.

The school has decided not to pursue CPF funds and is asking for the public to vote on May 16 for the full $9.425 MM to purchase the Marsden properties:
$3,425,000 (withdrawn from the “Facilities Improvement Capital Reserve Fund”)
+ $6MM (new tax)
+ interest (to be paid in the form of a “BAN” loan; interest only is paid for a few years before paying back principal which shows less tax upfront, but more in later years.)

The school is not including any development costs in the upcoming vote.

opposing views:
Citizens of Sag Harbor Website

We urge everyone to vote on May 16.

Absentee ballot requests must be received AFTER April 15 but BEFORE May 9. Click here to download the absentee ballot request form.

Absentee ballot requests must be received by either the:

  • District Clerk at Pierson Middle/High School, 200 Jermain Avenue, Sag Harbor

  • Substitute District Clerk, at Sag Harbor Learning Center, 135 Division Street, Sag Harbor

To vote for the first time or to change your voting address: Click here to download voter register form Eligibility requirements are printed at the top of the form. Return the form to the Suffolk County Board of Elections at the address printed on it. This form must be received by the Board of Elections no later than May 6 if you wish to vote on May 16.

votE May 16th at Pierson Middle/High School Gym 7AM - 9PM

Public Hearing Notice

Convening of Adjourned Feb 28th Hearing

Tuesday, MARCH 14th • 1PM • Southampton Town Hall or via zoom

“Public Hearing on the Acquisition of Development Rights at 7, 9, 11, 12 and 15 Marsden Street, Sag Harbor, and to Amend the Community Preservation Project Plan to Include 15 Marsden Street, and Amend CPF Management and Stewardship Plan to Include Properties” (originating document)

Check the Town Planning Board meeting portal for instructions on how to attend or send public comment.

27 East editors and reporters discuss the many aspects and issues on the Marsden properties purchase proposal.

Updated cost estimates and projections as noted at the hearing:

5 lots totaling approx. 4 acres
Total purchase price of lots = $9,325,000
Cost/acre = $2,332,250 ; Avg. Cost/lot = $1,865,000
Capital improvement estimate = $6,700,000
Maintenance costs = unknown

Total projected Marsden project cost = ~ > $16 Million
Total projected MaSHASHIMUET project cost = ???

SHUFSD is looking to go to the public for 2 bond votes with the budget vote May 16th:
1. Renovation costs for Mashashimuet Park
2. Capital improvement costs for Marsden Properties

Southampton Town Board Adjourns Public Hearing on Marsden to March 14, 1pm

Read Sag Harbor Express Article, March 1, 2023
Review proposed SHUFSD Budget 2023-2024

Public Hearing Notice

Tuesday, February 28th • 6PM • Southampton Town Hall or via zoom

“Public Hearing on the Acquisition of Development Rights at 7, 9, 11, 12 and 15 Marsden Street, Sag Harbor, and to Amend the Community Preservation Project Plan to Include 15 Marsden Street, and Amend CPF Management and Stewardship Plan to Include Properties” (ref. Feb 28 meeting agenda p3)

Check the Town Planning Board meeting portal for instructions on how to attend or send public comment.

As of February 24, the public has not seen Sag Harbor School District’s plan to satisfy the Town’s terms and conditions (shown in letter below).

Click image or button above to link to the Town’s website meeting portal. Select “Town Planning Board” in the dropdown menu under “Meeting Group” in the left side panel to get to the page shown above.

Dear Members,

In the NCC's February 2023 newsletter a survey was offered regarding the use of CPF funds for the Marsden St. properties. The goal was for the NCC to get a sense of where our community stands on this issue, gather thoughts, and gauge our involvement in the matter. The info gathered was to also help with discussion at our upcoming meeting.

While our intention was to hear primarily from NCC members and taxpayers in the SHUFSD, the survey was shared to people within the district, and also beyond the district, and taken multiple times within a family skewing fair and balanced results of property taxpayers. 

We regret we did not formulate the survey in such a way that allows for proper dissemination of the data and therefore the NCC has stopped the survey and discarded the data. 

We want to thank everyone who took the time to submit the survey fairly and provide honest and helpful comments.

letter from Town Southampton CPF to SHUFSD BOE outlining terms and conditions for purchase of Development rights offer on the Marsden Lots.

Discussion on these terms can be viewed by clicking the 2nd forum video button below.

2nd Community Forum of SHUFSD

January 25th, 2023 at 6:30 PM at Pierson library and zoom. For more info and zoom link visit:

https://www.sagharborschools.org/events?id=16758881

The following info was sent via the District Parent Square app:

January 18, 2023

Dear Sag Harbor Schools Community:

The second of a series of community forums addressing the development of the Marsden Street properties will take place on Wednesday, January 25, from 6:30 to 8:00 pm in the Pierson library. For those residents unable to attend, the meeting can be accessed using the Zoom link below.

https://E2CCB-GST.zoom.us/j/94265025747?pwd=WVd4dmZiRkR6WEZ2eTFEa1gwUnZTdz09

Passcode: 232423

The meeting will address:

  • A review of 100% natural grass and 91% natural grass surfaces

  • A review of bathroom and comfort station designs

  • Parking surface and related lighting considerations

Following the informational presentations, there will be a question and answer session.

I look forward to seeing you on January 25.  

Sincerely,

Jeff Nichols
Superintendent of Schools

1st Community Forum

The NCC has been asked to share the following information from Sag Harbor Schools Superintendent Jeff Nichols… Click the letter below to link to a PDF that was emailed out via the district app and posted to the school website. The letter includes a zoom link to attend remotely.

The results of the school district vote addressing Proposition #1- Purchase of Marsden Properties, are as follows: Yes - 638; No - 521

The Marsden lots purchase is contingent on using $6 million from Southampton Town Community Preservation Funds (CPF), and the balance of funds coming from the District's capital reserves. The Town Board has not yet voted on the use of these CPF monies.

The letter below was sent to district families from Superintendent Nichols regarding Marsden properties. The NCC looks forward to seeing how the School will be planning community outreach. The letter was sent to District families that have the “parent square” app - will these forums be advertised to the greater community as well?

Special School District Vote

– Marsden Properties –

VOTE THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3rd

at Pierson High School Gym • 7am - 9pm

Residents have raised questions about the Marsden Street proposition including access to public information and the school’s apparent plan to use artificial turf for the proposed field.

The NCC has compiled information and presented below. Information is updated as it becomes available. Please study the issue and cast your ballot on November 3 at Pierson Middle-High School. NOTE this is 5 days before the statewide election November 8.

To find out how to get an Absentee Ballot for the Nov. 3 vote visit the district’s Marsden information page.

Proposed properties for Pierson Athletic Complex (27 East).

On Nov. 3, the community will be asked to vote on whether the Sag Harbor School District can use public funds to purchase five acres of woodlands for approximately $10 million (current estimate is $9,325,000 including closing costs) in the historic district, with the stated aim of developing sports facilities. However, the cost of the proposed sports complex and parking lot has not been disclosed.

Plans have not been fully communicated to the public and concerns have been raised as the School District requests taxpayer money for this land acquisition. Also unknown is the $13M suspended plan to participate in design and financing in the redevelopment of Mashashimuet Park.

The Marsden lots would be purchased using $6 million from Southampton Town Community Preservation Funds, and the balance of funds coming from the District's capital reserves.

After the school district received numerous inquiries and questions about this ballot proposition, a letter and FAQ document was distributed through the district’s “parent square” app and can now be accessed on the district website.

PLEASE NOTE: The District Marsden page seems to be getting updated on daily basis. The District has not sent notice of this vote to all district voters via USPS mail.

Please consider the following:

  1. The total costs of this project have not been fully disclosed including:
    - proposed development of athletic field and parking lot with EV charging stations,
    - redefined plan for Mashashimuet park,
    - maintenance including staffing, equipment, etc., for new athletic field(s)

  2. This property been shown to collect stormwater.

  3. CPF funds are typically designated for preserving our natural environment and water quality; how does this purchase fit CPF parameters if the goal is to develop the property? By law, the Town must have public hearings and vote in public before any CPF contract is agreed and signed.

  4. The school appears to be considering or has committed to use of artificial turf which was previously overwhelmingly rejected by the Sag Harbor community, who voted against artificial turf by 10 to 1 in 2016.

  5. Developers previously could not obtain permits to build large 6000 sf homes on these properties.

  6. There have been no public hearings to date explaining this use of CPF, taxpayer, or School District funds including the total cost of all the related projects as noted above. A member-only PTSA meeting was held on Oct 25 and opened to the public a couple days prior for viewing online. Click here to view recording.

The vote will be held Thursday, NOV. 3rd
at Pierson High School
from 7am – 9 pm

Reference Articles:

Oct 26: https://www.27east.com/sag-harbor-express/potential-purchase-of-marsden-street-lots-is-talk-of-the-town-in-sag-harbor-ahead-of-november-3-vote-2048405/

Oct 14: https://www.27east.com/sag-harbor-express/group-of-neighbors-expresses-opposition-to-sag-harbor-school-districts-plans-for-marsden-street-lots-district-sends-out-letter-with-more-information-on-plans-2045443/

Oct. 6: https://www.easthamptonstar.com/education/2022106/all-eyes-land-buy-sag-harbor

Oct 5: https://www.27east.com/sag-harbor-express/community-members-weigh-in-at-sag-harbor-school-board-meeting-with-thoughts-questions-about-plans-for-marsden-property-2043132/

Sept 14: https://www.27east.com/sag-harbor-express/proposed-deal-between-sag-harbor-school-district-and-town-to-acquire-land-is-unique-but-not-entirely-unprecedented-2023039/

Sept 6: https://www.27east.com/sag-harbor-express/sag-harbor-school-district-plans-to-buy-lots-on-nearby-marsden-street-with-eye-toward-creating-a-new-athletic-facility-2018375/

Note...as of 10/16/22, there is no reference to a "Public Hearing" on the Southampton Town Board agenda for the CPF acquisition of the lots as referenced in article(s).

The school district finally shared details on the plan in a letter dated Oct. 19th. Click here for District letter including their architect’s rendering (photo below).

Proposed athletic complex rendering from School District letter, Oct. 19, 2022.

Please read SHUFSD’s response to some of our questions:

(Received 10/26/22)

Q. What are total projected costs including development of athletic field, redefined plan for Mashashimuet park, maintenance including staffing, equipment, for new athletic field(s), etc.?

A. The total cost of the proposed purchase of the Marsden lots is $9,325,000. The school district contribution is $3,325,000 (includes $50,000 for settlement costs) and the CPF contribution is $6,000,000. The park renovation vote scheduled for September 29, was postponed in order to provide time for the district and the park board to discuss possible revisions to the renovation plan due to the proposed acquisition of the Marsden lots. The initial estimate was $13,500,000. It is possible that the plan will be scaled down, thus resulting in a lower amount. An equipment impact estimate is premature as the district does not know the field design or the surface at this point. Staffing levels are anticipated to remain stable.

Q. How will the wetlands be mitigated? This property has significant wetlands, collecting significant rain water that runs directly into our watershed. Current woodlands aid in filtering stormwater runoff.

A.There are no wetlands on the property. The Phase I study and the SEQRA determination is posted on the district website. Our architects will address stormwater runoff in the design process.

Q. CPF funds are designated for preserving our natural environment and water quality; how does this purchase fit CPF parameters if the property will be developed?

A. The school district received confirmation from the CPF program manager that the Town Board of the Town of Southampton authorized a $6,000,000 contribution towards the purchase. Specific questions should be directed towards the CPF.

Q. Why does the school appear to be considering or has committed to use of artificial turf which was previously overwhelmingly rejected by the Sag Harbor community, who voted against artificial turf by 10 to 1 in a 2016?

A. The school has not committed to artificial turf or natural grass. The vote on November 3 is for the purpose of authorizing the school district to access $3,325,000 in order to purchase the Marsden lots.

Q. Developers previously could not obtain permits to build on these properties. So what is the REAL value? Zillow assesses the 5 properties at $5.64M so why the offer of $9.275? If this property could not be developed previously, why would the school be able to develop it?

A. The value of the property is based on appraisals conducted by the Town of Southampton

Q. Why has the Town not moved forward on a public hearing on this CPF purchase? How can you be confident they will work with the School on this purchase?

A. See answer #3. If the Town Board of the Town of Southampton does not vote to approve the $6,000,000 contribution, the $3,325,000 will not be removed from the reserve fund as part of the proposed acquisition.

Q. Is synthetic turf is on the table? I hear that this time, the school district won’t ask the community for a vote. Is it true that the school will acquire the lots and then won’t need to ask for capital expenditures for turf because it’s baked into the broader plan of H2M, the “architect” whose renderings are shown in the district letter - who made a pro bono offer to Sag Harbor to lay this astroturf for free, so will the school NOT require another vote to use astroturf?

A. The field surface has not been decided. If the November 3 vote is positive and the district acquires the lots, the school district intends to conduct multiple outreach efforts in order to gain community feedback regarding the field design and surface. This feedback will inform a bond that will require a public vote. H2M is not providing any “pro bono” services.

*Information on this page is collected and provided with the intent to help our community become informed about this particular topic and may not necessarily reflect the views of the Noyac Civic Council.

Long Beach Restoration and Re-vegetation

Update: Dec 1, 2022

Please Volunteer for Our 2nd Planting Event at Long Beach!

The NCC is again asking volunteers to sign up and take part in helping to sustain Long Beach – a place so many enjoy for its natural beauty, seascape and sunsets – our prized beach here in Noyac! To find out more and to register go to: https://backtothebays.org/programs/long-beach-december

Hope to see you there!

Update on event:

Thank you to all who participated on a cold December day to plant grasses and shrubs to protect our Long Beach shoreline!!!

Thank you to Town Councilman Tommy John Schiavoni and Parks Director Kristen Doulos for organizing and working with Cornell Cooperative Extension Back to the Bays and continuing this important project.

The NCC helped rally the troups and was joined about 40 volunteers in 37 degree weather. Thank you to Bridgehampton School’s Environmental Club for your help as well! Everyone did a great job and we got the area planted in an hour!

Stay tuned for continuing this mission with more planting in the Spring - Date TBD.

The NCC beach committee developed a position proposal which we have submitted to Southampton Town. The goal is to establish a recovery and resilience program to protect and sustain the beauty at Long Beach now, and for future generations. Click here to view our project proposal report.

On April 2nd, 2022, volunteers from the Noyac Civic Council, Pierson HS Environmental Club, Southampton Town and Cornell Cooperative joined together to plant grasses and native species to help stabilize the beach, build up the sand to prevent further erosion and wash out when storms surge.

Thank you to all who are helping preserve and sustain our beaches!

Noyac Civic Council • P.O. Box 2565, Sag Harbor, New York 11963

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