ISLAND COMMUNITY BOARD
P.O. Box 371, Fishers Island, NY 06390
Email: ficommunityboard@gmail.com
ICB May 2024 Monthly Meeting
Tuesday, June 11, 2024
5:00 pm
Zoom Meeting
Total Participants: 61
Agenda June 11, 2024
Beth Cashel: Southold and Zoning Update
Geb Cook: Ferry District – Coast Guard House
Andrew Benkard – Theater
Elisabeth Parker – IPP
Tom Sargent – Conservancy
Bill Bloethe – Village Market
ICB Representatives: John McGillian (President), April White (Year-Round), Richard Miller (Seasonal), Linda Mrowka (Year-Round). Staley Sednaoui (Vice President). Absent: George de Menil (Vice President)
John called the meeting to order, and the board members approved the minutes. Sarah Porter mentioned the new Island Health Project data form which is posted on Fishers Island.net. Susie Parsons clarified the form’s purpose and said it was recommended but not mandatory. She put a note in that chat that she will ask Kapri Thomas to report on ICB about it next month.
Beth Cashel – Southold
Beth gave an update on the Whistler Avenue street lights, which will be replaced with compliant solar street lights. She then provided details about the upcoming zoning changes for the Coast Guard building to Marine One. The changes will prohibit certain businesses and activities while allowing specific marine-oriented uses, including boat storage, repair, and marine engine display, among others. The town will hold a hearing on June 18th to discuss the proposed changes from General Business to Marine One zoning.
Beth updated the group on the status of trooper housing and the state police barracks. She reminded everyone that Dock Beach is a town park and there is no overnight parking allowed.
Geb Cook – Ferry
Geb Cook provided an update about the live auction for the Coast Guard property and the public hearing for the bond purchase, emphasizing the importance of community involvement.
Christian Arsenault – School
Christian shared details about the upcoming construction project for the Fishers Island School, including the timeline and final cost.
Kate Stephens – Waste Management
Kate Stevens shared the news of Josh Theodore’s appointment as the new Operations Supervisor at Waste Management, emphasizing his impressive qualifications and experience. The team expresses excitement about his arrival and outlineed plans for an extensive onboarding process to introduce him to the community and island organizations.
Andrew Benkard – Theater
Andrew Benkard provided an overview of the theater’s ownership and its deteriorating condition. He highlighted the upcoming summer events and introduced a proposed plan for renovating the theater, including new bathrooms and other improvements to make it more comfortable for the community. He also mentioned the need for private funding and potential sources of secondary funding for the renovation project.
Elisabeth Parker – IPP
Elisabeth Parker presented the IPP’s summer program and community events, highlighting the return of the morning program, a musical, and various activities such as the CPR course, 4th of July parade, Craft Fairs, and pet show. She acknowledged the support of the board members, island organizations, donors, and emphasized the community effort involved in organizing these events.
Tom Sargent – Conservancy
Tom Sargent gave a detailed update on recent conservation and environmental activities, expressing gratitude to individuals and organizations involved. The updates covered a range of initiatives, from prescribed burns and invasive species removal to educational events and habitat protection efforts. The Conservancy’s collaboration with the community and external partners is highlighted as crucial to their success.
Billy Bloethe – Village Market
Billy Bloethe provided comprehensive updates on the Village Market, including changes to operating hours, new products, and the implementation of an electronic tag system for streamlined pricing and sales, as well as upcoming sales promotions and improvements for the busy season. Billy detailed the current full-time employees, highlighting individuals from various countries and explaining the J-1 work and travel visa program. John McGillian sought clarification on housing, and Billy confirmed the provision of housing at the old fellowship house. Billy expresses gratitude for the community’s support.
Recording to follow
