Following his decisive re-election last month, Robert T. Kennedy became the first four-term mayor in Freeport’s history. First elected in 2013, Kennedy has focused his administration on economic development, holding the line on taxes through grant funding and unconventional revenue sources. Kennedy recently took the time to answer questions from the Herald and reflect on the road ahead.
Q: Congratulations on your historic fourth-term win. How does it feel to be the first mayor in Freeport history to serve this long?
Mayor Robert Kennedy: Humbling. I am particularly touched by the faith the voters have in this administration and myself. We will continue to provide exemplary service and leadership.
Q: Were you surprised by the margin of your victory?
Mayor Kennedy: Yes, of course I was surprised, but I was hopeful to win and I would never take it for granted. “When you work in public service, you try to do a good job, but have to understand that campaigns are sometimes unpredictable”.
Q: You’ve held the line on taxes for 12 years, even with rising mandated costs. How have you managed to maintain that record?
Mayor Kennedy: Believe it or not, we pay attention to every penny. We also have a robust grants program where we not only look for new funding, but we also follow-up with the respective agency until such time the grant has been approved. We want to receive every penny to which we’re entitled. This two-pronged approach has served Freeport well. In addition, we have realized millions of dollars in non-tax revenues (License Plate Recognition system, rental of property, review /recertification of tax exempt properties and outstanding utility collections)
Q: How has the village’s grant-seeking strategy evolved, and what role has it played in achieving a zero tax rate again this year?
Mayor Kennedy: We hired a grants consultant in 2012. This individual not only goes after new money, but is the one-stop source for completing applications and making sure all required applications are properly filed. Applying for a grant can be laborious, so having someone who specializes in the process as a result, the rest of the staff can concentrate on their jobs.
Q: Can you talk more about how the redevelopment of sites like Moxey-Rigby and the upcoming Hilton Garden Inn project are contributing to the village’s economic strength?
Mayor Kennedy: Economic developments such as these properties increase the tax revenue. The more we increase our tax base, the less residents will have to pay. With additional revenue we can spend more on services, replacement of roads, renovating parks, and marina upgrades. It comes back to finding ways to get things done in the most cost-effective manner.
Q: You’ve increased the police force by 40 percent and decreased crime by 58 percent. What initiatives or strategies helped drive that reduction in crime?
Mayor Kennedy: Adding more officers on our streets has significantly reduced crime and adding additional equipment also helps. We received a grant for a new larger police patrol boat, drone/drone unit, and now have expanded bike unit to 12 officers. These and more continue to help improve safety of all residents.
Q: With over 117 roads repaved and major flood mitigation efforts underway, what’s next on the village’s infrastructure agenda?
Mayor Kennedy: Our Quality of Life Department team, along with the Director of DPW, is constantly on the street making sure we address infrastructure issues and other nuisance concerns. You can also call into the office of Quality of Life at 516-377-2274 to report an issue.
Q: What are your top three priorities for this new term?
Mayor Kennedy: Continuing to hold the line on taxes, nuisance flood mitigation, and the installation of surge barrier gates at the Jones Beach and Reynolds Channel inlets.
Q: Are there any upcoming development or infrastructure projects you’re particularly excited about?
Mayor Kennedy: A new Trade school at the Freeport Armory is one project I am particularly excited about. We have been in discussions with BOCES, trade schools, and unions regarding suggested programs in the offering – plumbing, electric, HVAC, carpentry, and computer science — We expect to start introducing classes in early 2026. There are other projects that are not yet advanced enough to speak about, but I will say that there are exciting options in the works.
Q: What would you say is your long-term vision for Freeport over the next decade?
Mayor Kennedy: I am confident that the future is bright for Freeport. We have the best Electric Department, Police Department, DPW, Water Department, Department Heads and Staff. Our waterfront community will enjoy these services for decades to come.
Q: How do you maintain public trust and transparency in local government, especially during election cycles?
Mayor Kennedy: By always being honest and keeping in mind the reason you ran for office in the first place --- to make the lives of residents better. When you make a decision, you have to ask yourself if that decision is good for the residents you serve. If not, you have to think again.
Q: You’ve credited your administration’s teamwork with many of these accomplishments. How do you foster collaboration with the trustees, department heads, and village staff?
Mayor Kennedy: I make sure we are meeting regularly to review future plans and discuss all options.
Q: What message do you have for the residents of Freeport who have supported you through four terms?
Mayor Kennedy: My door is always open. In addition, I have quality-of-life sessions every Tuesday from noon to 4:30p.m. You don’t have to have an appointment but if needed we can schedule a specific time.” If you have problems, we have resolutions.” I want every resident to know that I am appreciative of the faith they have in me, and until my last day in office I will be working for you.
