Lindenhurst, NY - May 20, 2015 - Suffolk County Legislator Kevin McCaffrey (R-Lindenhurst) recently met with colleagues from county and local government to discuss downtown economic development. The dinner at the Village Lanterne in Lindenhurst was compliments of Patchogue Village Mayor Paul Pontieri and Suffolk County Legislator Robert Calarco, due to their losing a friendly wager with McCaffrey and Mayor Brennan when the Lindenhurst Varsity Football team beat Patchogue-Medford’s for the County Championship.
The Village of Patchogue has been going through a number of revitalization efforts that have been receiving a lot of positive attention lately. In addition to the construction of additional housing in the downtown area, various beautification projects have been integrated as well.
Revitalization of this nature is catching the eye of policymakers at all levels of government, particularly other villages, as it is a potential means of increasing economic activity and stemming the tide of the “brain drain.”
“Our downtown areas here in Suffolk County have a tremendous amount of potential,” said McCaffrey. “With some smart planning, revitalization can not only make villages more aesthetically pleasing and economically robust, but more attractive to younger generations who tend to appreciate vibrant centers.”
The Village of Lindenhurst is currently undergoing an economic development process. A committee was formed holding regular meetings and requesting comments from the residents through surveys and public forums. Additionally, the Suffolk County Economic Development Department is assisting with professional planning expertise.
"My experience has ingrained in me the importance of keeping an open line of communication with other levels of government; this helps elected officials to determine the best means of serving the people,” added McCaffrey. “I am grateful for Mayor Pontieri sharing his knowledge, and I certainly wish the Patchogue-Medford Varsity Football team better luck the next time around. Congratulations again to the 2014 Suffolk County Varsity Football Champions, The Lindenhurst Bulldogs!”
Prior to being elected as a County Legislator, McCaffrey served as Trustee and Deputy Mayor for over 23 years in the Village of Lindenhurst.