Opponents Say New 7-Eleven In Ronkonkoma Is 'Same Failed Formula'

RONKONKOMA, NY— Opponents of a proposed 7-Eleven at 974 Portion Rd. in Ronkonkoma say the project does not reflect a land use plan designed to reduce unchecked commercial development in the area. The Town of Brookhaven is currently considering a proposal for the store and gas station at the site, once Village Green mini golf course, which closed in 2012. The proposal calls for a change of zoning from commercial recreation or residential to commercial.

Anthony Portesy is vice chair of the Brookhaven Town Democratic Committee and he says he opposes the proposal, calling it "the same failed formulas of the 1990s and early 200s" leading to "trading blighted property for blighted property."

"For too long we have watched as strip mall after strip mall lay vacant for years on end. The solution is to invoke creative, truly mixed-use zoning that combines residential, commercial and leisure activities on the same parcel."

The 7-Eleven would be almost 3,000 square feet. A nearby 7-Eleven would close, representatives for the 7-Eleven owner said.

Neil Foley, Brookhaven councilman, told Newsday that he understands the plan's opponents wish for land use consideration but that this particular site has been vacant for years with no other businesses showing interest.

"Instead of having a blighted property, the mindset is to bring in a business that will create jobs and help to beautify the area," said Foley, who represents the area on the town board. "I respect land use plans. It‘s just, sometimes you have to make tough decisions, and I personally feel that this is a business that will do well there and help out the area."

Brookhaven Town Board is reviewing the proposal now and a date for a vote has not yet been set.

Some residents hope to see new recreational uses for the property, instead of just added retail.