06/01/2026
To the Editor:
The 31,000 square foot “greenhouse” proposed for 1458 Middle Road by Brother Bear Cannabis is an affront to all residents who chose to move to this quiet residential area.
Does anyone know who is the actual legal owner of this LLC? Is there a viable license? These people will, in no way, contribute to the tax base, which some of the town board members have stated to be the reason for allowing development. If anything, it will be a strain on the very resources we need to protect and if they somehow, qualify for Ag tax status, there will be a zero net gain. In fact, this multi-million dollar business may end up paying less tax to the town than any individual resident in this area, while squandering our resources.
The increased flow of traffic along Middle Road due to heavier trucking, will contribute to worsening air pollution and noise and faster road deterioration. Speed and collisions have been increasing problems.
Their wells and leach fields will put more strain on the aquifer and will eventually drain back into it, adding who knows what contaminants. The more suction from the aquifer, the greater the possibility of more contaminants leaching from the nearby landfill, further contaminating our precious water supply.
The 24/7 noise created by nearly 2 dozen large exterior a/c units will become a constant strain on the electric grid and will end up raising the rates for the residents. What if there is a power outage? Don’t worry, a large diesel generator sitting on an 8’ x 8’ pad will continue to create noise and spew pollutants.
What happens when odors, mold and other irritants escape such an intense facility? Will the health of already compromised residents be put in further danger?
Who will be liable for any of these problems? Who will cover losses of our investments in this community?
We have voted for and entrusted the Riverhead Town Board not only to help develop the area, but to consider the well being of all who live here. I’m pretty sure that not one person developing this abomination or permitting it, lives near or would choose to live near such a facility?
Sincerely,
Linda J. Nemeth
Calverton
To the Editor: The 31,000 square foot “greenhouse” proposed for 1458 Middle Road by Brother Bear Cannabis is an affront to all residents who chose to move to this quiet residential area.
