Sea Isle City to Review Sidewalk Dining, Golf ‘Cars’

SEA ISLE CITY – This resort’s City Council met March 28 and quickly held the hearing for its 2017 municipal budget.
Before its unanimous passage that did not elicit further commentary from the council or the administration, an opportunity was given for citizen comment.
Resident John Henry asked, “Where has this budget been published line by line? I’m not really sure what any of the figures are for, not having been able to go to the budget workshop.”
Administrator George Savastano assured Henry “Sea Isle publicized details in accordance with law by putting full details on the city website and in the March 8 Atlantic City Press giving a summary of the budget. This is a lengthy document so if you want a full printout you can always ask the city clerk to provide you with one.”
Sidewalk Dining
Council member John Divney asked the council to consider a review of the city’s sidewalk dining regulations. 
“We’ve had sidewalk dining and related regulations for about five to seven years, and it’s been very successful. I think it’s time we take a look at the rules and see if any appropriate changes are due.
“So let’s work with the city administration. Sidewalk dining has created a neat atmosphere. There have never been any brawls, and I’ve heard nothing negative, but maybe we can improve what we’re doing,” Divney said.
“Actually, I have heard some negative comments and those from people who sometimes find it hard to get around the crowds lined up at restaurants waiting to get in. They say traffic as pedestrians is impeded because of the chairs and tables coming out too far on narrow sidewalks,” rejoined Council member, Mary Tighe.
During the public comment portion, Michael Monichetti said, “I was really opposed when council allowed sidewalk dining. However, it’s been very, very beneficial for our local restaurants. My restaurant, Mike’s Seafood, doesn’t offer sidewalk dining, so I’m being objective.
“At first, I thought with open alcohol and crowds there’d be real nuisances created, but I’ve heard nothing but positives about this. Thanks to council.”
Council agreed to review the ordinance once additional input is gathered by Divney.
Make Room for Golf Cars?
Council member John Gibson asked the administration to look into creating more parking spaces for smaller “golf cars” to alleviate parking and traffic congestion in the city, especially as the summer is almost here.
“These small cars can fit two to three vehicles in the space of one regular parking slot. They’re easy on the environment, and they’re operating on streets in many other municipalities. I think if we encourage their use by creating more spaces for them, that will create more demand and help us manage parking and traffic tie-ups,” said Gibson.
Savastano promised to look into the feasibility of supporting more use of those types of vehicles.  
To contact Camille Sailer, email csailer@cmcherald.com.