Suffolk Reporter

On May 15, 2024, a meeting was held at the Asharoken Village Hall to discuss the current condition of the Asharoken Seawall and strategies for its improvement. The gathering included Sen. Mario R. Mattera (R,C-Smithtown), Assemblyman Keith P. Brown (R,C-Northport), Asharoken Mayor Dr. Gregory Letica, and other elected officials from federal, state, county, town, and village governments. Stakeholders from the Asharoken and Eaton’s Neck communities also participated.

Representatives in attendance included Michael Iannelli for U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer; Lauren Lembo for U.S. Rep. Nick LaLota; Col. Alexander Young, New York District Commander and District Engineer of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Anthony Ciorra, PE, Chief of Coastal Restoration & Special Projects Branch at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers New York District; Hon. Rob Calarco and Thalia Olaya for Gov. Kathy Hochul; Rob Caroppoli for NYS Sen. Mario R. Mattera; Ken Murphy from the New York State Department of Transportation; Chris Engelhardt, Cathy Haas, and Ryan McGarry from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation; Hon. Stephanie Bontempi and Tyler Cobe for Suffolk County Legislator Stephanie Bontempi; John T. McCarron, Deputy Town Supervisor for Huntington; Hon. Andre Sorrentino from Huntington Highway along with George Schwertl and Michael Ruconich; Garrett Chelius from Huntington Maritime Division; Phil Waiter from Eaton’s Neck Fire Department; Bill Raisch from Asharoken Emergency Management; John Ballow and Christine Ballow representing Property Owners of Eaton’s Neck Beach and Greater Eaton’s Neck; Tom Kehoe Jr., Tor Vincent from Eaton Harbor Corp.; Philip Quarles as an Asharoken Resident.

Senator Mario R. Mattera emphasized the urgency of addressing the seawall's condition: “With the current condition of the Asharoken Seawall, it is imperative we act to protect the residents who are affected every time there is a significant weather event.” He highlighted that coordination among various stakeholders is essential to find real solutions.

Assemblyman Keith P. Brown expressed satisfaction with the collaborative response: “I was very pleased everyone understood the urgency of the situation... I look forward to coming up with a solid action plan to move forward to protect the residents.”

Senator Chuck Schumer noted his efforts in securing federal funding: “I’m also proud that $2 million in federal funding I appropriated has been secured by the village in recent years to make repairs... I will continue collaborating on long-term solutions.”

Congressman Nick LaLota reaffirmed his commitment: “Understanding the critical situation at the Asharoken Seawall... we remain committed to supporting local stakeholders in achieving this long-overdue fix.”

Huntington Town Supervisor Smyth reiterated ongoing support: “The Town of Huntington... will continue to provide assistance in future where we can.”

Mayor Letica acknowledged progress made during this initial meeting: “This meeting was a terrific first step... I look forward to using it as a springboard to completing both an interim and long-term fix as quickly as possible.”