New York Attorney General Letitia James, alongside the Central Pine Barrens Joint Planning and Policy Commission, has initiated legal action against David Roberts and his company, Roberts Premier Development, LLC. The lawsuit accuses the developer of unauthorized removal of trees and vegetation on protected Pine Barrens land to build a commercial cabinetry business.
The Pine Barrens are crucial for Long Island's drinking water supply. According to the lawsuit, Roberts cleared 13,000 square feet of natural vegetation and constructed a 5,500-square-foot barn without proper authorization. The lawsuit aims to compel Roberts to dismantle the structure, restore the property, and pay civil penalties.
Attorney General James emphasized the importance of preserving the Pine Barrens: “Long Island’s Pine Barrens are one of New York’s most precious environmental treasures, and we are committed to protecting it.” She expressed gratitude for the Commission's partnership in this effort.
Judith Jakobsen, Executive Director of the Central Pine Barrens Commission, highlighted the importance of adhering to land use regulations: “When someone breaks the rules, they should suffer the consequences.”
The Long Island Central Pine Barrens covers 106,000 acres in Suffolk County and hosts significant ecological diversity. The 1993 Long Island Pine Barrens Protection Act established guidelines for development in this area. Any development requires a waiver from the Commission.
Roberts Premier acquired a four-acre property in Brookhaven in July 2022. Despite being within a residential zoning district that prohibits non-residential use, Roberts applied for a town permit but did not seek approval from the Commission before proceeding with construction.
In March 2023, local authorities alerted the Commission about unauthorized clearing on Roberts’ property. By June 2023, evidence suggested that Green Leaf Cabinet Corp., operating from this location, had set up a website directing customers to their new barn.
The lawsuit demands removing unauthorized structures and restoring affected land under Commission supervision. It also seeks civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation plus $1,000 daily until compliance is achieved.
Attempts at negotiation with Roberts Premier have been unsuccessful. The case is managed by Judith Jakobsen and other officials from both organizations involved.