Staff

Kristy Verity, Executive Director joined the BID in July 2019 with a passion for transforming downtown Riverhead into a vibrant, thriving, community-driven district. Ms. Verity employs a diverse background in business, design, marketing, communications, placemaking, and project management. An east-end native and small-business owner herself, Kristy leads a New York State Certified Women Business Enterprise [WBE], amplifying the presence of businesses and organizations spanning Long Island.

Brian Hanlon, BID Ambassador, acting as our eyes and ears throughout the district, Brian has been a familiar face in downtown Riverhead since 2019. Assisting the BIDMA with various tasks, maintenance, and event operations, Brian actively helps to cultivate a welcoming and safe environment for residents and visitors. Brian is a North Fork local with a work ethic that is second to none.

Executive Board of Directors

Sean Kenna, President, has held a position on the BIDMA Board of Directors since 2017, and was elected president in 2024. Sean is an owner/operator of Cucina 25 and Craft’d, located on Main Street in downtown Riverhead. Sean is an active member of the Riverhead community and coaches boys lacrosse at Riverhead High School.

Gary Hygom, Vice President, a seasoned executive with extensive experience in the performing arts industry, Gary serves as Executive Director at The Suffolk Theater, Main Street. Gary's expertise spans multiple aspects including executive leadership, production, and management. Gary brings a unique perspective to the BIDMA, fostering collaboration and innovation across cultural boundaries; proficiency in multiple languages enables him to communicate with diverse audiences and stakeholders. Gary's skills have been honed through his tenure at various esteemed institutions, solidifying his position as a respected leader in the performing arts and community sectors.

Linda Lombardi, Treasurer, has been a dedicated banker in Riverhead for twenty years. Developing a deep connection with the community, Linda has witnessed the growth of Riverhead firsthand and has gained a profound understanding of its needs and aspirations. Enthusiastic about contributing further to the community's development. Linda aspires to play an active role in shaping downtown Riverhead into a more vibrant and appealing destination.

Secretary, Open

Board of Directors

Jason Breitstone, Hildreth’s Real Estate Advisors

Michael Butler, North South Development LLC [Appointed Seat by the Supervisor of the Town of Riverhead]

Amanda Capobianco, Richmond Realty Corp

Jasmine Esquilin, BID Resident [Appointed Seat by the Chief Financial Officer of the Town of Riverhead]

Linda Lombardi, M&T Bank

Alberto Longhi, The Preston House & Hotel

Mark McLaughlin, NYS Assembly District 2

Joseph Oliver, JJ Armory

Larry Oxman, East End Commercial Real Estate

Wendy Weiss, East End Arts

The Town Board sets an annual budget for the BID Management Association, a 501c(4) non-profit organization whose members are the property owners and tenants of parcels within the district. A board of directors elected by the membership and Town Board oversees the affairs of the BID Management Association

The BIDMA meets the Third Wednesday of each month at 5:30pm inside Town of Riverhead Hall 4 West Second Street Riverhead, New York 11901. Anyone wishing to present an item for discussion for the BID board meetings must send an email no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting to hello@downtownriverhead.org. Please check the Riverhead Town website for any meeting notices for cancellations or location change. BIDMA board policies may be viewed here