Rep. Nick LaLota (R-Suffolk County) led state and local officials in a letter requesting the New York Department of Health to conduct a comprehensive health study on behalf of the Calverton community. The letter was cosigned by Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo, New York State Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio, Suffolk County Legislator Catherine Stark, Riverhead Supervisor Tim Hubbard, and Riverhead Councilmembers Kenneth Rothwell, Robert Kern, Denise Merrifield, and Joann Waski.

“I’m a lifelong Long Islander and I have seen firsthand the water quality issues our communities have faced. I am proud to have secured critical funding for the Town of Riverhead to address these issues and support residents but it is clear there is more to be done,” said LaLota. “Urgent action is necessary to safeguard the health and well-being of the Calverton community. Given the health risks associated with PFAS, including cancer and liver damage, it is imperative that the New York Department of Health quickly begin this study.”

To read the full text of the letter, click HERE.

Background:

In July 2024, LaLota successfully secured $1.25 million for the Town of Riverhead’s Calverton and Riverhead PFAS/PFOA Cleanup Project included in the House-passed FY25 Interior Appropriations bill.

In July 2024, LaLota sent a letter to the Department of Defense with concerns about the continued delays and lack of responsiveness from Naval Facilities Mid-Atlantic (NAVFAC MIDLANT) regarding the Calverton Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant (NWIRP) cleanup efforts.

Earlier this year, LaLota was able to secure $1.25 million in the FY24 Appropriations package for the Town of Riverhead for the Riverhead Public Water Main project. Funding for this project will allow for the extension of 37,000 feet of public water main and the connection of 90 homes located south and east of the former Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant at Calverton, allowing for the provision of safe, clean drinking water to these residents.

LaLota was also able to secure $1.25 million for the Suffolk County Water Authority for the Westhampton Water Main Extension project, which will provide homes with access to clean, constantly tested drinking water that has also been affected by PFAS.