Russian diplomats will get free parking at Oyster Bay beaches

The Town of Oyster Bay this summer will again host Russian diplomats on its beaches free of charge.

Town officials this week approved an annual request from the Permanent Mission of the Russian Federation to the United Nations for its diplomats to have parking and beach access fees waived for the summer season.

The diplomats — usually just one family associated with the permanent mission uses the beaches — have enjoyed free access to town beaches for as long as any town employees can remember, Oyster Bay spokeswoman Marta Kane said Wednesday. The privilege is linked to their diplomatic immunity, she said.

The Russian diplomats stay on the North Shore and particularly use the Centre Island beach, she said.