Riverhead council considers small memorial at South Jamesport Beach for Christina Gabrielson

At a June 18 work session, a council member proposed that Riverhead explore placing a small memorial and plaque for the late Christina Gabrielson at South Jamesport Beach.

Councilwoman WSI said the Gabrielson family — prominent local volunteers — has offered to pay for the memorial, install native plantings permitted by the state environmental regulator, and maintain the site. “They’re willing to pay for this and put in some native plantings around it that are permitted by the DEC and maintain it,” she said, describing a modest plaque-driven design and asking staff to consult buildings and grounds on possible locations.

The council discussed the Gabrielson family’s history of civic contributions and welcomed the idea as appropriate community recognition. Council members did not take a formal vote on installing the memorial during the session; Councilwoman WSI said she only wanted the board’s support to explore options and permitting requirements.

The board closed the meeting after the discussion. Staff were asked to follow up with buildings and grounds on site feasibility and permitting; no timeline for a decision was specified.