Letters

I am writing to share with our community the outstanding support, service and attention that Southampton Town Trustee Joseph McLoughlin has provided to the waterways in the Town of Southampton.

Mr. McLoughlin proactively has sought out community groups in North Sea, supporting our fresh water lakes and ponds and bays, introducing himself and offering support. He has facilitated meetings and enabled communications with the Town Trustees, ensuring that the water quality status has been shared and needs are being addressed, coordinating with resources including the Highway Department, Community Preservation Fund, and external thought leaders. His energy, insights, coordination skills and knowledge have been invaluable.

Through Mr. McLouglin’s efforts with the Trustees and Town Highway Department, there are new storm drains on critical points surrounding Little Fresh Pond, which is phase one of an improvement initiative to address long-term water quality. The Surfrider Foundation’s Blue Water Task Force data shows these storm drains have reduced and at times eliminated road runoff into our waters.

Mr. McLouglin has also facilitated further initiatives regarding the installation of bioswales and rain gardens on public access points. All of this has been because he is committed to provide support and value to our community, through his knowledge and interests.

Mr. McLouglin had attended all association and community meetings for our area, has accompanied volunteers on water sample collections for Surfrider BWTF analysis, learning about the type of testing being performed, including State Department of Environmental Conservation water characterization programs. He is truly dedicated to his role as Trustee.

I highly recommend Joseph McLoughlin for reelection to the Town Trustees to continue the positive trajectory for water quality improvements in our community.

Larissa Potapchuk

Southampton