Rick Martel Takes His Seat

Rick Martel was sworn in as a Southampton Town councilman January 7.

The Hampton Bays resident is the owner of the hamlet’s Skidmore’s Sports & Styles, and has been a longtime president of the Hampton Bays Boys Little League, youth basketball program, and the Hampton Bays Booster Club. He is a member of the Kiwanis Club and president of the San Gennaro Fest, which donates thousands of dollars to local charities each year including Maureen’s Haven and the Coalition of Women’s Cancers at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital.

“All the community service that I have done for more than 40 years makes entering politics a natural transition,” Martel said. “I think this town is going in the right direction and I want to be a part of that. I am looking forward to working with everyone on the board. Each member has a good vision and I think we are going to make a great team.”

Martel replaces Christine Preston Scalera, who was termed out. He will serve as the only Republican on the board. Councilman John Bouvier was sworn in for a second term.

“I’m looking forward to continuing to serve the residents of Southampton and working with my fellow board members,” he said. “I’m excited about the prospect for the future.”

Theresa Kiernan was sworn in for her fourth term as receiver of taxes and Gary Weber for his second term as town justice.

Supervisor Jay Schneiderman was sworn in for a third term at the helm. The supervisor outlined his goals, including improving water quality, reducing property taxes, and addressing the chronic erosion at the east end of Dune Road in Hampton Bays.

“I am honored to be supervisor for a third term,” Schneiderman said. “I look forward to working together over the next two years with my colleagues on the town board.”

desiree@indyeastend.com