Brookhaven · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Brookhaven public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Support
Residents voiced strong opposition to proposed utility-scale battery energy storage facilities in Manorville and Holtsville, citing risks of thermal runaway fires, toxic air emissions, and contamination of the sole-source aquifer. Labor unions and industry representatives defended the projects as essential for grid stability, clean energy integration, and local union job creation. Town Supervisor Daniel Panico clarified that no building permits have been issued and that the town is awaiting further state guidance.
Floating home special permit renewal, East Patchogue
Cool Change, Inc. received a five-year renewal of the special permit for a long-standing floating home on Spruce Drive, subject to wetlands rules; no current neighbor complaints were reported.