Babylon Mayor Cancels Meeting Citing Threats of Violence

A years-long dispute between a local homeowner and Babylon Village officials has escalated into lawsuits, accusations of retaliation, and public protests, with Mayor Mary Adams canceling the November 10 Board of Trustees meeting amid reported threats of violence.

The controversy centers around a waterfront home renovation project undertaken by Austin Kitt that became the subject of multiple lawsuits involving contractors, building inspectors, and the village government.

Kitt has taken his grievances to social media, posting videos criticizing Adams and alleging that village officials mishandled his construction project and retaliated against him for speaking publicly.

In announcing the meeting cancellation, Adams described a “certain disgruntled individual” who had been organizing a protest through social media and other channels.

“The sole objective of this protest, as I understand it, is to disrupt the Village meeting and interrupt the flow of government operations,” Adams stated.

“Rest assured that will not happen,” the mayor declared.

“However, specific threats of violence have been made,” Adams continued. “Therefore, after internal discussion, and out of an abundance of caution, tonight’s Village of Babylon Board of Trustees meeting will be cancelled until such time as proper security procedures can be reviewed.”

Adams did not identify who allegedly made the threats or provide details about their nature.

Kitt’s supporters have accused Adams of attempting to silence criticism of her administration, with videos circulating online challenging her treatment of residents. A Change.org petition calling for the mayor’s resignation and accusing her of retaliation and misconduct has attracted 1,857 signatures.

The underlying dispute dates to construction work authorized in 2020. Kitt subsequently sued the village, alleging negligence involving building permits and inspections he says contributed to substantial damage to his home.

Adams has also pursued a defamation lawsuit against Kitt over statements he made concerning the mayor and the construction dispute.

In a social media post supporting his son, Kitt’s father said Austin was forced to sell the home and that the new owner was able to secure village permits needed to continue construction.