By Ed Romaine
Earlier this month, I delivered my second state of the county to my partners in government at the Suffolk County Legislature. I can say with confidence that Suffolk County is doing well. We continue to make this great county safer and more affordable, and our efforts have moved this forward.
In 2024, through strong collaboration with my colleagues, we’ve made tremendous strides toward creating a safer and more affordable Suffolk County.
We received four bond upgrades, unlocking millions of dollars in savings for our taxpayers. These upgrades could not have come at a more critical time, as my administration undertakes the essential task of rebuilding long-neglected infrastructure like the Ponquogue Bridge in Hampton Bays and the Millers Pond Dam in Blydenburgh County Park along with critical safety improvements to our county roads.
We bolstered public safety by adding 225 police officers and detectives to our force, resulting in a net gain of 95 personnel. In partnership with our district attorney, we strengthened penalties against illegal street takeovers and dangerous speed contests, ensuring swift and decisive action on quality-of-life concerns.
We’ve also transformed our Department of Social Services. Suffolk County’s DSS, once ranked last in the state for processing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applications, now proudly stands at number one. This means food gets to those in need promptly — not months down the line.
Our commitment to protecting the environment remains unwavering. From preserving parcels like Huntington’s Stanhope Stables to safeguarding acres of the Pine Barrens, we’re ensuring these vital green spaces remain untouched by development.
At the same time, we’re making historic progress on our $1 billion sewer infrastructure pledge. Projects are already underway in Deer Park, Kings Park, Smithtown, St. James, and Mastic, with many more feasibility studies in progress. Last year, we also launched an innovative water reuse program at the Bergen Point Wastewater Treatment Plant, which will repurpose treated wastewater for golf course irrigation and plant operations.
Importantly, we achieved all this without piercing the tax cap — and let me be clear: I will never propose a budget that does.
The investments we are making today will position Suffolk County to retain and attract young professionals, offer options for empty nesters looking to downsize, and support residents on fixed incomes.
While challenges lie ahead, with steady leadership and a clear focus on the future, I am confident that we will continue making great strides in 2025 and beyond.
Ed Romaine is the Suffolk County executive.