SOUTHOLD
Fostering Distinctive, Attractive Communities with a Sense of Place
Downtown
Revitalization
Village of Greenport
David Kapell, Mayor
2005
Mayor David Kapell is being honored for his role in helping the Village of Greenport become one of the most interesting and enjoyable places to visit on Long Island. Mayor Kapell has been engaged in public service to Greenport for twenty-six years. Various roles have included Community Development Director, Village Trustee, Planning Board Chairman. He was elected mayor in in 1994. In September 2002 he was awarded Honorary Member AIA - New York State Chapter. In June 2003, he graduated from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University with a Master’s Degree in Public Administration.
Through Mayor Kapell’s leadership the Village of Greenport has made a dramatic comeback. In the 70’s, almost half of the downtown retail was vacant. You could find a home in the neighborhood of $20,000 and Greenport appeared destined to remain on e of the most depressed economies on Long Island.
Of course, the grapes helped. The 20-odd vineyards now dotting the East End have certainly played a major role in breathing new life into the old town. What is truly remarkable, however, is how the town has managed its comeback without falling into the over-commercialization trap that has plagued other hamlets in the east.
Greenport, has successfully become the capital of North Fork vineyard communities, while still remaining true to its history. The Arcade bustles with visitors looking for a good old fashioned five and dime bargain. Claudio’s Restaurant remains a major destination after over 130 years, while new shops and restaurants now occupy all the old vacancies. A major waterfront revitalization is also underway. It’s centerpiece: the old Grumman Carousel — complete with a old-fashioned chance to grab the brass ring.
Mayor Kapell has demonstrated strong leadership by seizing opportunities such as the carousel, skate park, and brownfields grants, preserving affordability and keeping the Village tax positive. It is this personal creativity and resolve combined with a rich history and amenities that makes the Village of Greenport a wonderful place to live and visit.
