Suffolk County’s election night has arrived, with crucial races taking place in the five East End towns and the two East End Suffolk County Legislature Districts. Residents are encouraged to follow the live updates for the latest results as polls close this evening.
On the ballot are races for four of the five town supervisors. Riverhead Town Supervisor Tim Hubbard, a Republican, is facing off against Jerry Halpin, the Pastor of North Shore Christian Church. In Shelter Island, incumbent Republican Supervisor Amber Brach-Williams is up for a rematch against Democratic Councilman Gordon Gooding. Meanwhile, East Hampton Town Supervisor Kathee Burke-Gonzalez and Southampton Town Supervisor Maria Moore, both Democrats, are running unopposed.
Southold Town Supervisor Al Krupski, the only East End Town Supervisor with a four-year term, is not seeking re-election. However, the three Town Council seats up for grabs could significantly alter the Southold government landscape. The Southold Town Board must include a representative from Fishers Island, a seat currently held by retiring Fishers Island Justice Louisa Evans, a Republican.
Incumbent Democratic Councilman Brian Mealy is looking to retain his seat, while his colleague Greg Doroski has set his sights on the Suffolk County Legislature. The Republicans in this race have nominated Chris Talbot, a former Southold Councilman, and real estate broker Nick Planamento, as well as clinical research scientist Stephanie Hall for the Fishers Island Justice position. On the Democratic side, Mealy is supported by Greenport business owner Alexa Suess for the Town Council and architect Kate Stevens, the Fishers Island Waste Management District Commission Chair, for the Fishers Island Justice seat.
As results are expected to come in post-10 p.m., updates will be provided on the X feed. With a dynamic and competitive atmosphere for East End voters, these elections could shape the future of local governance. Support from the community is crucial for independent news services like The Beacon to continue bringing important information to residents.