OUR MISSION
The Mission of the West Islip Association is to work with the community, community groups and local officials to ensure that West Islip maintains its character and remains a comfortable place in which to live and work.
WEST ISLIP ASSOCIATION INCEPTION
A meeting of the West Islip Chamber of Commerce on March 13, 2008 was attended by almost 500 West Islip residents. The subject at issue was the proposed construction of a Walgreen’s Pharmacy on the grounds of the LaGrange Inn on the northwest corner of Higbie Lane and Montauk Highway in West Islip.
Although the LaGrange Inn had not been designated as an Historical Preservation Site, in the minds and hearts of long-time West Islip residents, it represents what this community was in the history of our country. It is the centerpiece of West Islip. So spoke many on March 13, 2008.
In response to the negative reaction to the plan, Legislator Tom Barraga proposed the formation of the La Grange Task Force to research, develop and recommend alternative plans for the future of the site where the historic LaGrange Inn is currently located. It was energized by the tremendous support and encouragement of Islip Town Officials including Town of Islip Supervisor Phil Nolan, Town of Islip Planning Board Commissioner Gene Murphy, and Town of Islip Economic and Development Division Director William G. Mannix.
When local groups approached the Task Force with suggestions of other problems which should be addressed, it became evident that a broader consideration was needed.
The West Islip Association was formed to enrich the community to the benefit of its businesses, its visitors and its residents.
