In an effort to operate as a functional government, based on New York State’s executive orders (to limit our workforce to only essential employees) the town of Smithtown has taken measures to limit in-person services, restricting public access to various departments, and buildings. Arrangements have been implemented to conduct business online, as well as drop off/pick up areas and secure payment options for residents and business owners. Additionally, cleaning crews are thoroughly sanitizing town buildings and grounds on a regular basis.
We have listed important information regarding how to proceed if you are sick, School closures, meeting details and information on conducting business safely for your reference. The town will update the public as information changes on a regular basis.
COVID-19: Testing Information
Testing Site: The “drive-through” novel coronavirus testing center has been set up at Stony Brook University. If you are exhibiting symptoms you can call the hotline to be triaged by a nurse and set up an appointment.
Residents can make appointments by calling: 1-888-364-3065
Currently, there are 86 confirmed Coronavirus cases in the Town of Smithtown. Suffolk County Health experts have said that as of present, each confirmed COVID-19 case had been contracted through community spread. As such, parades, events and races have been postponed and it is recommended that residents holding large events (over 50 people) consider rescheduling to a later date. The CDC recommends that in-person events that consist of 50 people or more over the next 8 weeks be canceled or postponed.
Executive Order:
New York State executive order requires that restaurants and bars cease in-dining services. The order states that restaurants and bars “shall only serve food or beverage for off-premises consumption” until further notice. Additionally the order requires the closing of gyms, fitness centers, and movie theaters.
Town Closures:
Smithtown Senior Center: To protect the health and safety of those most vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19, the Town of Smithtown will be closing the Senior Center for two weeks starting Monday, March 16th through March 30th, 2020. Residents who come to the Senior Center for lunch and require meals can make arrangements for meal delivery during the building closure. The Meals on Wheels program will continue to operate to homebound seniors. To arrange for your meals to be delivered, (suggested donation $2.50 per meal) please contact the Senior Center at (631)360-7616.
Municipal Services Facility: Bagged mulch pickup has been suspended for the time being.
Brush and Leaf Bags: We are asking residents to please refrain from placing bags of leaves and brush on the curbside temporarily. Our workforce at MSF and Highway has been cut back to accommodate state workforce reductions.
Town Meeting Changes/Postponements:
- The Town Board meeting scheduled for March 19th, 2020 at 7PM has been moved to 2 PM in the Victor T. Liss Board Room. The Town of Smithtown will suspend the public portion of this Town Board meeting. Residents wishing to be heard on the record should email townclerk@smithtownny.gov prior to the meeting time. All written public comments will be added to the record. Residents wishing to watch Town meetings can do so via live stream by logging on to www.SmithtownNY.gov.
- Board of Zoning Appeals: The meeting on March 24th has been postponed until a later date in April.
- Planning Board: The meeting on March 18th has been postponed until a later date in April.
LIMITING ACCESS: Public access has been restricted at all town buildings.
It is recommended that residents wishing to visit Town Hall or other official town buildings for permits, services or assistance, please call ahead or attempt to speak with department staff over the phone if possible. Many Smithtown functions can be found and completed online at www.SmithtownNY.gov as opposed to in person. For assistance with online forms, please call (631) 360-7512.
Playgrounds: In an effort to further prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus, playgrounds and washrooms will be locked. Residents are asked to please refrain from permitting large groups of children to assemble in deck hockey courts and similar open spaces. Please observe a safe social distance while enjoying the parks and beaches. Parks Department teams will reassess next week, based on personnel and the ability to maintain optimal cleaning of recreational equipment.
Smithtown Historical Society Hours: The Smithtown Historical Society has cancelled all activities and classes through March 31st, 2020. Additionally all historic buildings will be closed for cleaning. The office will be open from 9AM-1PM on weekdays, however it is recommended that residents call or email first. Email info@smithtownhistorical.org Phone: 631.265.6768 Fax: 631.979.4694
School Districts: All Four School Districts have enacted a mandatory two week closure by executive order from Monday, March 16th, through Friday, March 27th, 2020. The School Districts will continue to monitor the public health situation and reevaluate the rapidly evolving situation on a daily basis. Parents should check each school district’s website for information on online classes, Spring recess and changes to the calendar.
The next weeks away from school should not be viewed as a typical vacation. Families should consider restricting travel and avoiding large gatherings.
PLEASE DO NOT HOARD GROCERIES OR SUPPLIES: Long lines at the grocery store or wholesale supply chains will only increase the risk of exposure to you and your family. Additionally, please remember there are many families who are in need of meals and supplies year round. Many of the local food banks, Long Island Cares and Island Harvest are out there on the front lines, ensuring no one is left hungry during this period of social distancing.
To Donate:
For up to the minute announcements on cancellations, please download the Town of Smithtown Mobile App.
If you are having a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1. If you believe you were exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19, call your doctor immediately or 1-888-364-3065 and be vigilant in limiting your exposure to others. It is vital for all residents to continue washing and sanitizing hands frequently. While we understand that residents may be temporarily inconvenienced by these changes, our top priority is ensuring that each member of this community remains safe and healthy during this time.
View Important Information from the NY State Department of Health
Download Commonly Used Forms
Download Limited Public Access for Town Office Buildings