Meschutt Beach Neighbors Say Enough is Enough

Mary Ann Remigio says she purchased her Hampton Bays Washington Avenue East home 17 years ago to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but the quiet and peacefulness has given way to the revving engines of hot rods and motorcycles, drunks, and thumping music.

"The beach hut at has turned my world upside-down," said Remigo. "Our quality of life has been compromised."

Remigo said the trouble started about eight years ago, but it was bearable for a time. Now, and especialy this past summer, the situation has gotten out of hand.

"Basically, it is every night during the summer. The music is so loud, I hear it a block away. The place is a zoo every night, completely packed with people drinking and dancing till 9:30 and 10:00 p.m."

Remigo said this was not something she signed on for when she purchased her property, which she believes has lot its value because of the Beach Hut situation.

"I can't even go out and walk my dog. The traffic is horrendous. It's dangerous."

Remigo says she's called the town, the county — anyone who will take her call. But she says her words have fallen on deaf ears.

"They basically say poo-poo and laugh," said Remigo. "Honestly, I don't know what to do, but I am definitely not going to let this go."

Remigo says is hoping that the newly formed  organization can help — she's actively working to help the group increase its membership by handing out flyers to neighbors. And she said is considering putting a petition together to submit to the county.

A petition is something Jim Dubrowsky, a 45-year resident of Dune Road, says he has already tried.

"I wrote Suffolk County Parks Department and got 20 signatures, but that meant nothing to them and nothing was done," he said.

Dubrowky said he just wants some peace — he doesn't want to see drunk people urinating on his front lawn anymore or hear the thumping music.

"This would never be allowed in Bridgehampton or Westhampton Beach. It has made my life miserable," he said, adding that at 80 years old, he just doesn't have it in him to fight.

"I've kinda given up. I shut the front door, turn up the TV and watch in the back room," he said.

Dubrowsky said he has turned over all his paperwork and petitions to Remigo, hoping that she can continue the fight.

While the beach sits in the Town of Southampton, it is owned by the county, which leases the concession stand to an outside vendor.

According to David Betts, of Southampton town code enforcement office, when complaints come in regarding the beach hut, his office refers them to the county.

The Suffolk County Parks Department did not immediately return phone calls nor did the Beach Hut, however, Legislator Jay Schneiderman said it sounds like a quality of life issue that needs to be addressed. 

"This is the first I am hearing of this and I can look into it. I know the beach is a popular spot with the music, but the county certainly wants to be a good neighbor," Schneiderman said.

Schneiderman says he plans to reach out to the county park's commissioner.

"Possibly," he said, "some restrictions need to be placed on the vendor."

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