Following a detailed discussion at its February 3 Work Session, the East Hampton Town Board announced a proposal to establish a Multi-Department Public Safety Center in Montauk that would house the Town’s Police, Marine Patrol, Town Lifeguards, East Hampton Volunteer Ocean Rescue, and Code Enforcement operations in a single, centralized location.
The proposed public safety center would be located at 68 South Elmwood Avenue in Montauk. The town worked with the D’Agostino family, longtime owners of the property, to acquire the site for this public purpose and expressed appreciation for their cooperation throughout the process. The cost to acquire the land is $1.5 million.
“When someone needs help in Montauk, they should know it is close by,” said Town Supervisor Kathee Burke-Gonzalez. “This proposal gives our public safety teams a shared home base so they can work together, stage equipment locally, and respond quickly, especially during our busiest months. I want to thank the D’Agostino family for working with the Town on the acquisition of this property and helping make this possible.”
Deputy Supervisor David Lys said the proposal reflects years of discussion about Montauk’s public safety infrastructure. “From its coastline to the volume of activity during peak season, Montauk presents challenges that require practical solutions,” Lys said. “A shared public safety center improves communication between departments and provides a facility that reflects the realities of how public safety services operate here today.”
East Hampton Town Chief Lifeguard John Ryan Jr. emphasized the importance of a Montauk-based facility for water rescue operations.
“East Hampton Town lifeguards are responsible for protecting the largest continuous shoreline in New York State,” Ryan said. “Right now, some Montauk lifeguard assets are staged outside the hamlet, which affects response times. A facility in Montauk would allow equipment and personnel to be positioned locally, strengthening emergency response and mutual aid during waterborne and shoreline incidents.”
Police Chief Michael D. Sarlo said a shared facility would better support day-to-day operations and public service in Montauk. “A new public safety center would give police and partner agencies the space needed to work effectively, support coordination between departments, and better serve the public in Montauk,” Sarlo said.
The proposal discussed by the Town Board represents an early step in the planning process. Any future actions related to design, environmental review, approvals, and construction would be subject to additional Town Board review and public processes. Next steps include a public hearing to acquire this property.
Additional information will be shared as the proposal advances.