HIA-LI will host “Economic Development Advancements: Towns Shaping Long Island’s Future” on Thursday, March 26, bringing together Long Island’s town supervisors for a timely discussion on downtown revitalization and the policies driving economic growth across the region.

While state and county governments play important supporting roles, it is at the town level where many of the most impactful land use decisions are made—decisions that directly influence housing, infrastructure, business development, and the character of Long Island’s communities. This program will explore how town governments are shaping redevelopment efforts and responding to evolving economic challenges.

The event will feature opening remarks from Cara Longworth, Long Island Regional Director at Empire State Development and Rick Lewis, CEO of the Suffolk Y Jewish Community Center, followed by a panel discussion moderated by Joe Campolo, Managing Partner, Campolo, Middleton & McCormick LLP; Founder, Strata Alliance; and HIA-LI Board Member.

WHO:

• Cara Longworth, Long Island Regional Director at Empire State Development
• Rick Lewis, CEO, Suffolk Y Jewish Community Center
• Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter
• Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico
• Babylon Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer
• Huntington Town Supervisor Ed Smyth
• Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim
• Moderator: Joe Campolo, Managing Partner, Campolo, Middleton & McCormick LLP; Founder, Strata Alliance; HIA-LI Board Member

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WHY IT MATTERS:

As Long Island continues to evolve, town governments remain at the center of redevelopment efforts. From zoning and land use to downtown planning and infrastructure coordination, these decisions shape the region’s economic trajectory and quality of life. This discussion offers insight into how local leadership is approaching growth, revitalization, and community development.