Requires that land formerly used as an armory which was conveyed to the town of Riverhead, county of Suffolk by the state in 2011, to be leased to the YMCA of Long Island for the provision of recreational and educational programs.
NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
BILL NUMBER: A8809B
SPONSOR: Giglio 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 use of such property
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
To amend Chapter 495 of the laws of 2011 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 of land for 99 years at a nominal value of $1 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 Stotsky 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 the Armory Site.
The Town of Riverhead is committed to maximizing the value and accessi-
bility of its public resources. After careful review, we believe the
conversion of the former Riverhead Armory from limited use by the Police
Department, Justice Court, and affiliated public safety programs to a
YMCA-operated recreational and community services center is not only a
more equitable use of the facility but one that better meets the evolv-
ing needs of our residents.
This bill allows the town to lease such property to YMCA of Long Island
for a variety of uses all centered and focus on expanding community
benefit, improving accessibility and inclusivity, increasing operational
efficiency and provide for cost savings, better align long-term communi-
ty goals, and provide for community integration opportunities with law
enforcement for all residents regardless of income, age, or background.
Repurposing the Riverhead Armory for use by the YMCA represents a
forward-thinking investment in the health, well-being, and unity of our
community. This change transforms a limited-use facility into a vibrant
community hub, serving thousands of residents annually and enhancing
quality of life across generations.
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New Bill
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Immediately
