Joe Scianablo Wins Hempstead Race as Joseph Saladino Retains Oyster Bay

The 2026 municipal elections resulted in a leadership shift in the Town of Hempstead and a continuation of the status quo in the Town of Oyster Bay.

Joe Scianablo, a Democrat and former prosecutor, declared victory in the race for Town of Hempstead supervisor after defeating Republican incumbent John Ferretti. A retired New York City police officer and Marine combat veteran, Scianablo campaigned on a platform of affordability, public safety, and government transparency. His agenda includes a comprehensive review of town spending to fund parks and infrastructure, addressing overdevelopment, and transitioning residents to public water utilities. He also plans to redevelop the 72-acre Nassau Coliseum property to drive economic growth. Scianablo noted that because the town board remains under Republican control, he will need to cooperate across party lines to implement these changes.

In the Town of Oyster Bay, Republican Joseph Saladino won re-election, defeating challenger James Hoyle. Saladino, who has served as supervisor since 2017, focused his campaign on affordability, downtown redevelopment, and environmental protection. His priorities for the new term include the redevelopment of downtown Hicksville to add 500 housing units and the expansion of shellfish restoration at TOBAY Beach. Additionally, Saladino intends to continue litigation against Northrop Grumman Corporation to secure funding for the cleanup of the Grumman Navy plume.