March 6, 2026
Suffolk County towns, including those near Commack, propose 2026 budgets piercing the 2% tax cap. Residents watch closely as Smithtown eyes 9-10.7% hikes amid inflation pressures.
As Suffolk County grapples with inflation and rising costs—echoing Governor Hochul's recent veto of 24 duplicative line items in the FY 2026 state budget—towns near **Commack** in the Town of Huntington are pushing budgets that pierce New York's 2% tax cap.
Seven of Suffolk's ten towns plan to exceed the cap with a 60% supermajority vote, including nearby **Smithtown** proposing up to a **9%** tax levy increase, its first bust since 2011. Islip eyes a **2.10%** rise. Commack residents along **Jericho Turnpike** and near **Commack Road** feel the pinch, as supervisors cite skyrocketing liability insurance, pension costs, and infrastructure needs like road repairs on **Veterans Memorial Highway**. Long Island is also set to receive $60 million for pothole repairs as part of a statewide fix-it campaign.
Town leaders blame inflation, higher employee medical premiums, and essential upgrades. **Smithtown** residents already protested the proposed **10.7%** levy hike. In Huntington, home to Commack's **34,000 residents**, similar pressures strain finances for parks like **Walt Whitman Birthplace** and public safety on **Northern State Parkway**. Commack schools are also navigating their own enrollment and financial crossroads amid these broader budget pressures.
While Huntington's full 2026 proposal awaits board vote, the county's **$787.5 million** capital budget—**$256.9 million** for sewers—highlights regional needs impacting Commack families and businesses like **Commack Deli** on **Route 25**. The Village of Hempstead recently secured $23 million for sewer piping replacement, underscoring the scale of infrastructure investment happening across the region. Taxpayers can appeal assessments starting May 1, 2026, via the Town Board of Assessment Review.
Stay ahead of local changes—explore LI Daily's Government & Politics coverage for Huntington and Suffolk updates.
