Upper to Revise Use of Facilities Ordinance

PETERSBURG – Upper Township Committee introduced an ordinance to fine-tune how it governs the use of municipal facilities. The action took place Aug. 14. 
The existing ordinance provides for a range of fees designed to be reasonable but not create an undue burden on township facilities or personnel.
The proposed ordinance is a refinement which, if approved after a public hearing Sept. 11, would allow the committee to set fees for vendors, admission, and use of township-organized events.
The fees related to the facilities use ordinance are not much, and cover everything from using a conference room to an entire park with pavilions.
“But historically we wanted to ensure that Upper’s beach in Strathmere, for example, or Caldwell Park for a family reunion did not become magnets for individuals looking for low-cost facilities. Those fees will not be affected by the proposed ordinance which is composed of just a few sentences and is pretty generic,” said Solicitor Daniel Young.
“Depending on the nature of the program to be organized by the township the proposal will allow Upper to have the authority to apply conditions for events on a case-by-case, event-by-event ad hoc basis by resolution.
“For example, if a famous musician is going to have a concert at Amanda’s Field then admission might be higher to break even. In the past, Upper never did something like this; donations would be accepted, but that’s about it,” explained Young.
Over the course of its meetings this year, committee has discussed ways to expand its funds for special events.
The municipality’s Fourth of July celebration and October Fest are still free and, per Young, that will not change.
Upper is planning a large event to showcase hot rod autos Nov. 4. That event will be governed by whatever committee decides to specifically set and implement related fees.
“Use by other sports teams, for example, Little League teams and the like from Ocean City and Dennis Township among others will not be affected at all under this proposed ordinance,” continued Young in his explanation.
“Upper provides good support for these types of sports teams and will continue to do so by lining the fields for example. These teams, while they’re run by private non-profits, do receive guidance and assistance from Upper for their programs.”
To contact Camille Sailer, email csailer@cmcherald.com.