The Village of Sands Point Board of Trustees approved a $16.7 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year during its meeting Tuesday night, April 27, while also addressing infrastructure projects, water quality improvements and resident concerns about building costs.
The board unanimously adopted the $16,672,739 budget, which represents an increase from the prior year’s $15.96 million spending plan. Officials emphasized the village remains within New York State’s property tax cap, with a projected tax levy of approximately $11.86 million after allowable adjustments.
In addition to approving the budget, trustees reviewed a series of public works updates provided by Superintendent of Water & Public Works Christian DiMartino, including major investments in water infrastructure aimed at addressing contamination concerns and improving long-term reliability.
Mayor Peter Forman reported that a granular activated carbon filtration system at wells near village hall has successfully reduced PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” to undetectable levels.
“Since the plant went online, it has now moved to an undetectable level,” Forman said, calling it “a real win for the village.”
A second filtration facility under construction is expected to be completed later this year, while a new high-capacity well could be operational as early as July. Forman said the projects are part of a broader effort to safeguard the village’s water supply for decades and avoid disruptions like a past irrigation moratorium caused by equipment failure.
The board also approved several administrative measures, including a cable franchise renewal agreement with Verizon and a contract for fire and emergency medical services. The emergency services agreement, Forman said, costs the village about $1 million annually.
At the Village Club, administrators reported a strong financial performance and near-capacity membership heading into the summer season. Renovations to club facilities, including a new grill renamed The Grille, and expanded amenities, are expected to be completed by mid-May.
During public comment, residents raised concerns about the cost and complexity of the village’s building permit process. One resident said they had spent roughly $100,000 in fees before beginning construction on a home renovation.
“It shouldn’t cost people $100,000 before they have a permit in hand,” the resident said.
Source: LI Press
