Riverhead · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Riverhead public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
PBMC Planting Plan and Invasive Species
Christina Janus pressed the board on the Peconic Bay Medical Center planting plan, asking that the regional LISMA invasive species list be used to replace seven listed plants before the site plan is signed.
2026 Bow Hunting for Deer on Town Property
The annual deer management program would again allow bow hunting at Enterprise Park at Calverton, 1751 Sound Avenue, and Middle Road.
Bluff erosion and invasive species removal in Jamesport
Two Sound Shore Road properties won permits to dig out Japanese knotweed and multiflora rose and replant with natives — the invasives leave soil exposed and worsen bluff erosion. Work should take about a week, with ongoing monitoring afterward.
Shellfish and Finfish Permit Fees
Modest fee increases for recreational shellfishing — a new $10 permit and $50 temporary-resident permits lasting up to 30 days.
Higher fines for illegal dumping under Chapter 273
The town wants to hit dumpers in the wallet: first-offense fines for basic violations rise from $500 to as much as $2,000, and wetlands/hazardous-waste dumping could cost up to $20,000 for repeat offenders. Councilwoman Merrifield, the anti-litter committee liaison, championed the change.
NYS Bottle Bill expansion
The Surfrider Foundation asked the town to back the 'Bigger Better Bottle Bill,' saying it could save Riverhead taxpayers over $110,000 in waste and litter cleanup costs and keep plastic off beaches.
Composting and rain barrel program
A low-cost program would let residents buy composters and rain barrels through a town website, cutting food waste going to landfills and conserving drinking water used for lawn irrigation.