Proposed Lake Ronkonkoma fireworks show sparks controversy
Suffolk County Legislator Trish Bergin is backing the plan, which would feature a barge‑launched fireworks show over the lake. Supporters say the event could draw visitors and create a festive kickoff to the summer season.
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A proposal to bring a Memorial Day weekend fireworks display back to Lake Ronkonkoma is drawing both excitement and sharp criticism from local residents, environmental advocates, and veterans groups.
Suffolk County Legislator Trish Bergin is backing the plan, which would feature a barge‑launched fireworks show over the lake. Supporters say the event could draw visitors and create a festive kickoff to the summer season.
“I think it would be a great idea, honestly. I hope they would do it,” said Alicia Robinson of Ronkonkoma. Bob Harechmak of Nesconset added that the lake is “a beautiful” place that could attract crowds for the event.
But many others argue the celebration could come at too high a cost.
Environmental groups and longtime lake advocates warn that debris, chemicals, and paper from the fireworks could pollute the water and harm wildlife. “We shouldn’t have this going on,” said Ellyn Okvist of the Lake Ronkonkoma Heritage Association. “There will be all kinds of chemicals, paper, debris—everything in the water.”
Wildlife organizations are also raising alarms about the bald eagles that have recently returned to the area after decades of conservation efforts. John Di Leonardo of Humane Long Island said fireworks could “scare them off or even kill them” after years of work restoring the lake’s ecosystem.
Bergin disputes those concerns, saying the fireworks would burn up before reaching the water and that officials have already taken steps to protect the eagles. She said the state Department of Environmental Conservation requested that the fireworks barge be moved to avoid disturbing the birds—an adjustment she says has been made.
The event would be free to attend, with visitors encouraged to donate to the Lieutenant Michael Murphy Foundation, named for the Long Island Navy SEAL killed in Afghanistan. But even the display’s connection to Memorial Day has sparked debate.
Veterans from the nearby American Legion argue that Memorial Day weekend is meant for solemn remembrance, not celebration. “Memorial Day weekend is a solemn holiday,” said Fred Tartaglione of the American Legion. “We honor our dead, those who came before us.”
Bergin says she consulted Murphy’s family, who she says were “excited” about the idea and did not find it inappropriate.
Organizers still need to secure permits before the show can move forward.
