Kathy's Korner

WEDNESDAY MAY 3, 2023 6:30 to 8:oo pm--Hotel Indigo

Yes me again with another meeting but this one involves a project that could be a game changer for the East End of Long Island--a cargo airport.

The Ghermezians (Mall of America and the American Dream in the NJ Meadowlands) have a contract to buy 1600+ acres at the old Grumman site in Calverton. It includes two of the longest runways around. I have been following this since it all started more than 5 years ago when their spokesman was touting an innovative aerospace technology and research center for the site. He, by the way, has been convicted of real estate fraud (https://riverheadlocal.com/2019/02/24/court-triple-five-executive-intentionally-defrauded-buyer-in-n-j-real-estate-deal/).

But now the Ghermezians are in the process of seeking tax breaks from the town's Industrial Development Agency, and their presentation to the IDA made clear they are planning a cargo airport and about 9,000 Sq ft of warehouse space: planes pulling up to one side of the warehouses and endless tractor trailer trucks being loaded on the other side headed for the LIE. Needless to say if this happens we can kiss the peaceful east end goodbye; the opposition has been loud.

But these are wily folks and they are now back-peddling; thus, this presentation of their updated plans at the Hotel Indigo this Wednesday, May 3rd from 6:30 to 8 pm. We expect to hear not a peep from them about a cargo airport--just a rail spur. But from their history over the past 5 years, we know they will say anything to hide their true intentions.

So if this bothers you, come to the meeting, listen and voice your concerns. And for an extraordinary history of this deal, take a look at this recent article:

https://riverheadlocal.com/2023/04/24/buyer-in-epcal-land-deal-will-present-plans-at-public-forum-may-3-at-hotel-indigo-riverhead-industrial-development-agency-announces/