ISLAND COMMUNITY BOARD
P.O. Box 371, Fishers Island, NY 06390
Tel: 631-788-7990
Email: finy.southold@gmail.com
ICB October 2025 Monthly Meeting
Wednesday, October 8 , 2025, 5:00 pm
Zoom Meeting
Total Participants: 68
ICB Representatives: John McGillian (President), George de Menil (Vice President), Staley Sednaoui (Vice President), April White (Year-Round), Richard Miller (Seasonal), Linda Mrowka (Year-Round).
Agenda for Wednesday, October 8
with approximate recorded start times
Louisa Evans – Southold Update at 00:16
John Evans – Operator of the Naval Underwater Systems Center on Fishers Island at 03:11
Beth Cashel- Community Housing Update passed to next meeting
Kate Stevens – Candidate for Southold Town Board at 34:00
Stephanie Hall – Candidate for Southold Town Board at 40:50
Summary:
John opened the meeting and welcomed everyone.
Updates on Town Projects and Budget – Louisa Evans
Louisa Evans reported that sidewalk construction on Equestrian Avenue is set to begin on October 15 and will take approximately three weeks. The asbestos remediation at the barracks is scheduled to start on October 20. She urged attendees to review the zoning updates on the website and provide feedback, and she also mentioned ongoing discussions about affordable housing subsidies and accessory dwelling units.
Ken Edwards inquired about the status of the town highway maintenance barn, which has been in disrepair and was promised a replacement years ago. He expressed frustration about the delays, emphasizing that Fishers Island often seems to be at the bottom of the priority list.
Overview of Navy Center Operations – John Evans
John Evans shared insights into his personal history and the operations of the Navy Center on Fishers Island. He highlighted the site’s military history dating back to the Spanish-American War and its current function as a testing facility for submarines and other naval assets. Evans also mentioned the challenges of maintaining the facility and the importance of its strategic location for maritime operations.
He responded to inquiries about foreign submarines near Fishers Island, suggesting that while he cannot confirm specifics, it is plausible based on historical context. He also mentioned ongoing relationships with Navy officials regarding local concerns, including erosion prevention and property conservation. Additionally, he expressed interest in coordinating educational visits to the Fishers Island School, contingent on security clearances.
Introduction of Candidates for Town Board Position – Elections Nov 4
Kate Stevens shared her journey from a seasonal visitor to a full-time resident of Fishers Island, detailing her active participation in various community projects, including waste management and the Fishers Island Museum. She expressed a desire to enhance communication and collaboration between Fishers Island and the mainland, addressing concerns about housing, infrastructure, and local governance. Kate also proposed the idea of an island conference to foster regional cooperation on shared challenges.
Stephanie Hall introduced herself as a clinical research scientist and a resident of the island for over 30 years. She highlighted the critical decline in the year-round population, which has affected local services like the fire department. She emphasized the need for a community-driven strategic plan to attract young adults and families back to the island. Stephanie emphasized her dedication to representing Fishers Island and ensuring accountability from Southold regarding resource allocation.
Both candidates highlighted discussions with the town supervisor about the complexities of budget distribution among the hamlets and the potential for better tracking of funds allocated to Fishers Island.
With no further questions, John McGillian adjourned the meeting.
There will be no November Meeting, see you in December.
YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/k12xX2IrkPQ
