Senator LaValle And Assemblyman Thiele Pass Three Measures To Benefit Sag Harbor

Senator Kenneth P. LaValle and Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele Jr. have delivered three new propositions to the Governor that will benefit the Sag Harbor community.

The first piece of legislation is to reduce the speed limit in the town to 20 mph. The roadways, though picturesque in all its quaint glory, have proven to be a risk with the current 30 mph speed limits. Townspeople hope that the reduced speed limit will allow drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists to coexist more safely and peaceably.

The second measure is to once again propose synthetic fields to voters for Pierson High School. Though the initial funding amount was approved in 2013, insufficient funds and a community-wide concern for the health risks associated with synthetic turf halted progress. This legislation wishes to bring the discussion of grass-alternatives back into the hands of the voters.

The final bill recognizes the Village’s desire to create a vessel regulation zone in hopes of keeping a closer eye on mooring activity. Currently, vessels are loosely adhering to the 1500 foot boundary, posing risks to fellow watercraft users and swimmers. By creating a well-organized regulation zone, the Village of Sag Harbor aims to instill greater order and safety in the communities water zones.

“Sag Harbor Village and Sag Harbor School District both requires special state legislation this year to address local issues,” recognizes Assemblyman Fred Thiele. “I am pleased that Senator and LaValle and I were able to secure passage of these three (3) important measures. For the Village, providing expanded jurisdiction over the entire harbor will permit greater enforcement of health, environmental, and safety related to navigation and boating in the harbor.”

He also addressed the safety concerns. “Sag Harbor will also be able to reduce the speed limit to 20 mph on the major streets in its historic district,” he noted. “Both measures will contribute to efforts the protect the character and quality of life in the Village. For the school district, the special legislation will permit the District to go back to the voters and repurpose a voter approved bond which was to be originally used for the now abandoned turf fields project. This will give the residents of the school district the ability to decide how to best use these funds.”