BILL NUMBER: S8327
SPONSOR: PALUMBO
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend chapter 495 of the laws of 2011 relating to the convey-
ance of land formerly used as an armory to the town of Riverhead, county
of Suffolk, in relation to the permitted use of such property
 
PURPOSE:
To amend the town to allow the town of Riverhead to develop a YMCA
recreational facility.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1. Section 4 of chapter 495 of the laws of 2011 is amended to
allow for the leasing or selling of land to the YMCA of Long Island.
Section 2. Sets forth the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Back in 2022, the State sold 5.72 acres, formerly the site of the New
York State Armory to the Town of Riverhead. It included a structure of
approximately 32,101 square feet. The plan was to repurpose the Armory
for the police department, justice court, public safety and/or recre-
ational programs developed by the police department. In the meantime, a
more cost-effective plan arose to house the police department, town hall
and a new justice court.
There continues to be a tremendous need for recreation and community
services for young and old alike in the Town and this property is ideal-
ly suited and will compliment recreation and programs offered at the
existing Stotkzy Park. While the Town does not have the funding to oper-
ate, manage or maintain such an expansion, the YMCA Island leaders have
expressed interest in leasing or purchasing the Armory Site.
This bill allows the town to sell or lease such property to YMCA of Long
Island for a variety of uses all centered and focus on well-being,
including but not limited to fitness and health, education, designed for
and spanning ages from pre-school/early childhood, pre-teen, adults and
older adults for local and county residents.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Immediately