Republicans running for positions in the Town of Islip government pledged to reinvigorate Sayville's business district at Tuesday's meeting.
"We want to make the town more business friendly," said Olga Murray (R), who is running for Town Clerk. "To see the empty stores is absolutely horrendous."
Republican officials said they have several ideas for bringing businesses back to Sayville. Town of Islip Councilman (R) said he would like to promote "smart growth."
Pointing to Bay Shore and Patchogue as models, Flotteron said Sayville should offer more affordable housing within walking distance from downtown. This would increase foot traffic to stores and restaurants and attract young people and senior citizens.
Politics was the name of the game at Tuesday's meeting. State Sen. Lee M. Zeldin (R) was also on hand to outline his efforts to repeal the .
Under the current law, workers in New York City and seven surrounding counties must pay $0.34 on every $100 they earn to the MTA. The measure was enacted in 2009 to keep the MTA from imposing dramatic fare hikes and service cuts.
Zeldin, who was elected last year largely on this platform, pushed a repeal bill through the Senate. But the measure is stalled in the Assembly.
"New York has the worst business climate in the entire country," Zeldin told the group of business owners.
Sayville town business was also on the agenda. Business owners discussed the Fall Festival, which will feature a Halloween Parade and a Zombie Walk, along with rides and vendors.
Officials from the also outlined their plans for Sayville's 250th Anniversary, where historical re-enactors will be on hand, along with musicians and food vendors.
And business owners debated whether they would host the Battle of the Bay next year. While much of the event was previously held in Patchogue, Sayville hosted a Friday night opening party on Main Street.
This year's event was mired by Hurricane Irene, indecision and low turnout. "What will happen next year, quite honestly, is anyone's guess," said Chamber of Commerce President Rich Trpicovsky.
