Suffolk Wants Feedback From Marine Industry

Suffolk County Legislature Presiding Officer DuWayne Gregory’s Marine Industry Revitalization Advisory Council is holding public hearings across the county next month to hear concerns and ideas about investing in and protecting Suffolk’s $1.5-billion marine industry.

The group is seeking input from marine industry stakeholders such as marina owners and operators, commercial fishermen and baymen, recreational fishermen, and residents of areas in need of dredging.

With some 980 miles of shoreline and more than 300 bodies of water in Suffolk County, the Marine Industry Revitalization Advisory Council has been taking a comprehensive look at the best way to nurture Long Island’s diverse marine industry. 

“These upcoming public hearings are an opportunity for the public to help shape policy that will create the next generation of marine workers, support much-needed dredging projects, protect fisheries from deadly algal blooms, and ensure that Suffolk County beaches remain a popular destination for years to come,” said Legislator Gregory.

The council will host two public hearings in February 2019, one in central Suffolk and one on the East End, at the following times and locations:

1. Wednesday, Feb. 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Suffolk County Legislature’s Rose Caracappa Auditorium at the William J. Lindsay County Complex, 725 Veterans Memorial Highway, Smothtown
2. Thursday, Feb. 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Suffolk County Legislature’s Maxine Postal Auditorium in the Evans K. Griffing Building at 300 Center Drive in Riverside.

Testimony may also be submitted in writing to MIRAC@suffolkcountyny.gov.

The Marine Industry Revitalization Advisory Council was created last year through legislation sponsored by Presiding Officer Gregory with co-sponsors Legislators Sarah Anker, Al Krupski, and William Lindsay III.

The council held its first meeting in August 2018, bringing industry, education, and government leaders together to help protect, promote and grow Suffolk County’s ocean economy.

Constituents seeking more information may call 631.853.4088.