Letters

I am honored to be seeking reelection as your Southampton Town Trustee. Serving in this role for the past two years has been one of the greatest privileges of my life, and I am deeply grateful for the trust you placed in me.

Over this time, I have seen firsthand the critical importance of the Trustees in managing and protecting our town’s most valuable natural resources. While some of our upland neighbors may not always know the scope of what the Trustees do, anyone who clams, scallops, fishes, paddles, surfs, hunts, boats, swims or owns a waterfront property quickly understands the role we play.

The Southampton Town Trustees act as advocates for all who depend on our waterways, ensuring that they remain protected, productive and accessible for generations to come.

Every resident of Southampton benefits from the work of the Trustees, whether it’s preserving public beach access, restoring habitats like eelgrass and shellfish beds, protecting water quality, or ensuring the safe enjoyment of our harbors, creeks and bays. These responsibilities are not just about today, but about building a sustainable future for our children and grandchildren.

As a marine biologist, a commercial bayman, and someone who has spent my life working in, on and around the water, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience to this role.

From my early work with Cornell Cooperative’s eelgrass restoration efforts, to my years as a federal fisheries observer, to running my small business caring for aquatic systems, my life’s work has always been about stewardship of marine environments. That experience, combined with my deep roots in this community, has guided me as Trustee and will continue to guide me if reelected.

I am especially proud of the collaborations we’ve built over the past two years, working with local organizations, residents and fellow Trustees to advance projects that improve water quality and enhance resiliency.

But there is more to do. From restoring shellfish populations to exploring innovative solutions like floating wetlands and living bulkheads, I am committed to bringing both science-based and community-driven approaches to our bays, harbors, and shorelines.

It has been an incredible honor to serve as your Trustee, and I would be humbled to earn your support again. Together, we can continue to protect and enhance the waters that define Southampton, support the traditions of our maritime community, and ensure that these resources are here for all to enjoy — now and in the future.

Matt Parsons

Southampton Town Trustee