Resolution That Keeps Ecology Center Open Passes In Brookhaven

The Town of Brookhaven approved a budget resolution to combine the division of Traffic Safety and the Highway Department, thus clearing the money in the general fund to keep the Holtsville Ecology Center up and running.

The Town Board passed the resolution after a drawn-out evening that began with budget item resolutions, transitioned to a number of zoning approvals, and then doubled back to vote on Resolution 913.

A weary crowd of blue-shirted supporters of the Holtsville Ecology Center applauded after the resolution, which was introduced by Councilwoman Connie Kepert and Councilman Tim Mazzei, passed overwhelmingly.

Former Town Supervisor Mark Lesko proposed closing the center in a preliminary 2013 budget last month, citing savings of $900,000 a year by closing the zoo and greenhouse alone.  

Patch will have more on Tuesday council meeting, including reactions from employees and users of the Holtsville site in the coming hours.