Helicopter Case Not Heard
The second round of hearings regarding the Town's action against the helicopter operator/property owner on Deep Hole Road had been scheduled for 09:30 March 13 at the Cromarty Court Complex in Riverhead.

Upon arrival in Judge Farneti's courtroom to observe the proceedings we were advised by the Clerk that the case was to be decided by "paper" meaning that the Judge would make a decision on the pilot's right to land his helicopter on the property south of The Preserve without further hearings.

In the event that the Judge decided in favor of the chopper owner, the Town would appeal and provide additional reasons why he should be prohibited from operating the helicopter from the 10 acre parcel in question, according to the Town Attorney. The decision period could take up to a month.

Budget Deficit Takes a Big Hit.
Mortgage tax revenues will be at least $800,000 less than anticipated this year, presumably because real estate sales have been in a serious downturn. This bad news was recently announced by the Town Supervisor Cardinale. Shouldn't the Board now redo the budget and impose severe spending limits? Hello.

Why the Energy Tax in Suffolk?
Suffolk County is the only county (out of 60) in New York State requiring the residents to pay an energy tax. Ed Romaine has been trying to change this to no avail. Why doesn't the Town Board of Riverhead draft a resolution demanding removal of this tax and send it on to the County Executive and/or the Governor (of the moment) and get this changed? Huh!

Riverhead Seeks Part-Time Police Officers
The Town of Riverhead has issued a legal notice soliciting applicants for the position of part-time police officer. Requires the usual testing, physicals and background checks.