Suffolk County Government

The Community

Ideally situated in the heart of Long Island, Suffolk County has a population of 1.48 million people. The County geographically comprises the eastern two-thirds of Long Island and its western border is approximately 15 miles from New York City. The County is bordered by Nassau County to the west, the Long Island Sound to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south and east. Major population centers within the County are the Towns of Brookhaven, Islip, Babylon, Huntington, and Smithtown, each with populations in excess of 100,000. 

Governmental Organization

In New York State, local governmental services are provided by counties, cities, towns, and villages. The County provides police and law enforcement services, economic assistance, health services, and preservation of open space along with numerous other services. The County also maintains many roads, parks, and waterways, and operates a three-campus community college. Since 1960, the County has operated under a charter form of government, which provides for executive administration of County affairs.