Coronavirus: Huntington Town Enforces $1K Social Distancing Fine

TOWN OF HUNTINGTON, NY — The Town of Huntington will enforce a $1,000 fine for violations of social distancing guidelines on Town property amid the new coronavirus, officials announced Wednesday. The decision follows the lead of Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

"While we encourage our residents to enjoy Town parks in a safe manner, our patrols cannot be at every one of the 100+ Town of Huntington parks and beaches 24/7 to ensure everyone is social distancing," Supervisor Chad A. Lupinacci said in a news release.

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Town officials have asked the public to report unsafe behavior to its 24/7 Emergency Hotline at 631-351-3234, which would alert patrols to respond and break up the gatherings.

"Despite this, people have continued to gather unsafely against social distancing guidance," Lupinacci said.

The maximum fine for social distancing violations was doubled from $500 to $1,000, Cuomo announced Monday. He cited overcrowding in Astoria Park in Queens as a factor.

Lupinacci said local officials were reminded they have the authority to enforce the protocols, and the Town's decision was made after continued reports of gatherings at parks and beaches. Town of Huntington officials will seek permission from New York State to turn over collected fines to the "First Responders Fund," which assists COVID-19 health care workers and first responders with expenses and costs, including child care, Lupinacci said.

"Thank you in advance for your cooperation in keeping our community safe," he said.

All COVID-19 information on Town of Huntington parks can be found here.

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