Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force Chair Resigns, Eyeing Broader Youth Outreach

Mark McLaughlin plans to step down to focus on community programs and a potential future run for elected office.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Mark McLaughlin, the chairperson of the Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force, has announced his resignation from the position. McLaughlin plans to focus on expanding community programs, such as a Black History Month film event and a 'We Huddle to Help' football fundraiser, and is considering a future run for elected office.

Why it matters

McLaughlin's resignation from the Anti-Bias Task Force comes as the group faces uncertainty, with several members' terms expiring and not yet being reappointed. His departure signals a shift in his priorities, as he looks to broaden his community engagement efforts and potentially pursue a career in elected politics.

The details

McLaughlin was appointed as vice-chairperson of the Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force in 2023 and later became the chairperson. During his tenure, the task force worked on projects such as forming a partnership with the Riverhead School District, conducting 'Circle of Healing' discussions and sensitivity training, and collaborating with various organizations on hate crime awareness initiatives.

  • McLaughlin was appointed as vice-chairperson of the Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force on September 6, 2023.
  • McLaughlin became the chairperson of the Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force after the previous chairperson, Noreen LeCann, resigned the following week.
  • McLaughlin's term as chairperson was set to expire in September 2025.

The players

Mark McLaughlin

The outgoing chairperson of the Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force, who is stepping down to focus on expanding community programs and potentially running for elected office in the future.

Noreen LeCann

The previous chairperson of the Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force, who resigned shortly after McLaughlin was appointed as vice-chairperson.

Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force

A local government task force in Riverhead, New York, that works to address issues of bias and discrimination within the community.

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What they’re saying

“As my term has expired, I am writing to formally accept that my service on the Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force has come to a close.”

— Mark McLaughlin, Outgoing Chairperson, Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force (RiverheadLOCAL)

“I strongly felt that in order for people to report bias, they've got to know who to report it to.”

— Mark McLaughlin, Outgoing Chairperson, Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force (RiverheadLOCAL)

What’s next

McLaughlin plans to focus on expanding community programs, such as a Black History Month film event and a 'We Huddle to Help' football fundraiser, and is considering a future run for elected office.

The takeaway

McLaughlin's resignation from the Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force signals a shift in his priorities, as he looks to broaden his community engagement efforts and potentially pursue a career in elected politics, leaving the future of the task force uncertain.