Virtually everyone in the Southampton Village community recognizes that a solution for wastewater treatment is vital—both to remediate pollution in Lake Agawam and to protect the business core that defines the village’s identity and fuels its vibrancy. Yet for 20 years, nothing has been accomplished beyond studies and planning because a small minority within our community can always find a reason for more delay, despite offering no better, workable alternative. Saying no is easy; getting something done is hard.  

The time to act is NOW! Too much time has already been lost. Lake Agawam faces dire environmental challenges. Pollution from wastewater and runoff has turned this natural asset into a statewide symbol of environmental neglect, threatening Southampton’s reputation as one of the nation’s most beautiful and desirable beach communities.

Just as pollution and algae choke the lake, they also choke the economic vitality of our business district. Without a treatment facility, businesses cannot grow or make the investments needed to sustain the village as an economically viable home for the restaurants and shops that serve our community.

Our leaders at the state, county, town, and village levels have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to reverse two decades of inaction. The time is now for these leaders to collaborate and advance the long-overdue plans for a new wastewater facility in the business district, with all deliberate speed.

By signing this petition, you are urging our leaders to prioritize the planning and construction of the Southampton Village wastewater facility without delay. Let’s unite to protect and preserve our community, our village core, and Lake Agawam for generations to come.