Islip vets get break on permit fees

Islip’s Town Board on Tuesday agreed to halve building permit fees for properties owned by veterans organizations.

Almost a dozen representatives of veterans groups applauded as a resolution introduced by Councilman Gene Parrington was adopted unanimously. Gary Vertichio, commander of Sayville’s Smith-Wever American Legion post, said the move means a lot to the volunteer organizations.

“Construction is costly. When we did our recent renovation, we relied on thousands of hours of hands-on work donated by members and local companies,” he said, “and the town building permit fees are an added cost. This will save us and other groups hundreds of dollars, and we’re truly appreciative.”

There are 13 active facilities for veterans in the town. Permit fees vary according to building size. Ken Weeks of the Islip Building Division said one building permit that cost a veterans group $2,204 in 2009 would today be $1,102.

The board also unanimously adopted a resolution introduced by Councilman Steve Flotteron codifying existing policy that gives fire districts the same 50 percent permit fee reduction and extends that to cover ambulance districts.