The future of the Holtsville Animal Preserve has become a heated debate in Brookhaven, with residents packing Town Hall Thursday night to speak out during a public budget hearing.

The town’s proposed 2026 budget eliminates funding for the animal preserve, part of the Holtsville Ecology Site, which officials say would save taxpayers more than $2 million a year. The plan would phase out funding through early 2026 as the town works to relocate the animals.

Amelia Lappe, 12, told News 12 she’s heartbroken by the possible closure, saying the preserve inspired her dream of becoming a zoologist.

Meanwhile, animal rights advocates argue the decision is long overdue, citing years of alleged neglect.

A Change.org petition to save the preserve has gathered nearly 5,000 signatures as of Thursday night.

The Brookhaven Town Board is expected to vote on the budget and the future of the preserve on Nov. 20.