Islip To Boost Security At Marinas

This article was written by Greg Sleter.

Sachem residents who spend their days on the water come summer time might rest a little easier when they leave their boats behind at Islip docks. 

Islip Town announced it will expand security at marinas following several incidents and complaints from local residents.

According to Newsday (subscription required), the town board on Tuesday said it would reverse a 2012 decision that eliminated its marina guard program and cut harbor patrol guards for a cost savings of $1.2 million.

Councilwoman Trish Bergin Weichbrodt reported that she has received numerous complaints about the lack of security around the town.

On April 27, Islip Park Rangers arrested a Bay Shore man and accused him of stealing equipment from boats at West Islip Marina.

Town officials said Eric Brabant was charged with trespassing and two counts of criminal possession of stolen property. Emergency equipment and gasoline cans were discovered in a vehicle driven by Brabant, officials said.

The town will hire seasonal employees as early as next week, but full details and the total cost of the additional personnel had yet to be finalized.