With the goal of enhancing transparency and improving Brookhaven's services, Town Clerk Kevin LaValle has announced a host of new initiatives for 2025.
To make it easier for residents to get the details on land use and rezoning applications in their neighborhoods, the Clerk has added QR codes to the informational signs required at the sites. Scanned by cell phones, the codes will direct people to www.BrookhavenNY.gov/TownNotices, where they can click on the project they're interested in to learn more.
LaValle resolved to be more ambitious in the new year, posting information through social media updates, newsletters, press releases, how-to videos, and graphic information cards. “On my Brookhaven Town Clerk social media platforms, I announce upcoming events and meetings and share updates about what is going on in the Clerk's office,” he explained. “My newsletters, sent at the beginning of each month, include information on town meeting schedules, upcoming events, monthly updates, and pictures of the past month's events.” Click here to subscribe.
“This year, we continued to add how-to videos posted on social media and my town clerk websites to provide clear guidance on accessing our services,” the Clerk said in a Facebook post. “Additionally, the pamphlets and information cards I distribute detail the services we offer and how to navigate them efficiently. The feedback I've received about these resources has been incredibly positive from residents looking to obtain assistance from the office!”
Another milestone listed this year was working in coordination with Supervisor Dan Panico and the town council, showing support for active-duty military members and veterans. “This year, for the first time, we announced that marriage license fees were waived for those who serve or have served in the military. It's a small way to show our gratitude for their sacrifices,” LaValle said.
To highlight Brookhaven's amazing history, he started a series called "Talking History with the Town Clerk.” He recently highlighted the historic Davis Town Meeting House, Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Society, and the Longwood Estate. More episodes are promised for 2025.
LaValle was chosen as one of five clerks selected nationwide by CivicPlus to discuss the future of technology as it relates to the intake and dissemination of information from town offices. “Our Technology Improvement Team and I had the opportunity to discuss how we have improved Town Board meeting transparency, outreach to our residents, and increased Town Clerk services offered online,” he noted. Upgrades will make life easier for residents, from launching online boat slip renewals and online land use applications to advancing major scanning projects.
Finally, the Clerk announced that the town’s Regional Record Center in Bellport will be completed in 2025. A collaborative effort with other municipal and community partners, the massive facility will serve as a state-of-the-art government record storage center, providing secure and efficient records management.