As we transition into the off-season, a glaring issue in Southampton Village needs immediate attention: the continued vacancies in our downtown. This summer, there were at least two vacant storefronts on Jobs Lane, prime spaces that remained empty throughout our busiest season. Typically, vacancies are a concern in winter, but it was unusual and concerning to see so many during our peak season, while our neighboring communities, East Hampton and Sag Harbor, reported no vacancies. In those villages, when a space becomes available, it is quickly rented, often within days.
In 2020, during my tenure as mayor, I introduced a storefront window law requiring vacant storefronts to display art from local artists. This initiative was well-received, featured in The Southampton Press, the Wall Street Journal, and turned into a study by a Harvard Business School student. Despite assurances from Bill Manger to enforce this law, the quality of the artwork displayed has been uninspired and unappealing. The current law tasks the village administrator, who will be stepping down on September 30, with approving the artwork.
However, simply filling windows with artwork does not address the root cause of the vacancies plaguing our downtown.
Manger must do more. As a former mayor and business owner who understands the dynamics of the downtown, I am ready to help find real solutions to this problem. Yet, to date, Manger has not sought my input on this or other critical issues facing our village.
Our village cannot afford another season marked by vacant storefronts and missed opportunities. I invite Bill to work collaboratively with those of us who have the experience and commitment to make a difference.
Jesse Warren
Southampton Village
Warren is a former mayor of Southampton Village — Ed.
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