At the Southampton Town Board Meeting held on March 10, 2026, the Town Board voted unanimously to approve new legislation aimed at addressing blighted and abandoned properties. The initiative, put forth by Councilwoman Cyndi McNamara, establishes a Vacant Building Registry to enhance community safety and preserve neighborhood character.
Under the new law, owners of every vacant building within the Town are now required to:
- Register the property with the Town.
- Pay a designated registration fee, with an escalating yearly maintenance fee.
- Maintain liability insurance for the property.
- Submit a detailed long-term plan, either rehabilitation or demolition, for the property.
“These blighted properties are not only an eyesore for the neighbors, they are a danger to first responders who may be called in the event of a fire or medical emergency,” stated Councilwoman Cyndi McNamara. “They are putting a strain on Town resources. Now fees will be imposed on property owners who are using the most services.”
The legislation also mandates annual inspections for these properties to ensure they do not become hazards to the public or emergency personnel. By holding property owners accountable, the Town aims to transform neglected sites back into productive assets for the community.
Ryan Murphy, Town Code Compliance & Emergency Management Administrator, stated, “Ongoing vacancy and progressive dilapidation should not be just the cost of doing business for property owners. This Code increases accountability for those behaviors and ensures that public safety and emergency services agencies have the information needed to safely and effectively manage any issues that may arise at vacant properties.“
For more information regarding the new registry and requirements, please contact Ryan Murphy at 631-702-1700.
