City Council on Thursday approved a temporary ban on flying drones in Ocean City, but here are some other council actions that might be of interest:
- Half-Stories: City Council unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance designed to encourage the construction of single-family homes in zones that allow residential duplexes. The single-family homes would have to meet the same height and setback requirements as neighboring duplexes (“to fit in the same box”) but they would be allowed to have two-and-a-half stories as in other single-family zones. A second reading is scheduled for Dec. 17.
- ‘Rock Stars’: Bike OCNJ co-chairs Tom Heist and Drew Fasy presented Ocean City’s Complete Streets Excellence Award (read more) to City Council and Mayor Jay Gillian. The award recognizes Ocean City’s efforts to design streets safe for cars, bicycles and pedestrians. A video produced by the state highlights Ocean City’s work (see video). Fasy traveled to Trenton to receive the award on behalf of Ocean City. “We are seen as rock stars up there,” Fasy said of the Ocean City.
- Sheds: City Council unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance that eliminates a duplicate ordinance governing sheds. A second reading on the housekeeping measure is scheduled for Dec. 3.
- Rental Unit Fees: City Council passed the first reading of an ordinance eliminating mercantile license fees on units rented for more than 175 days. The fees will continue to exist for short-term rental units. A second reading is scheduled for Dec. 3.
- Building Heights: City Council approved the second reading of an ordinance that changes the method of measuring building heights in certain commercial zones.
- Bulkhead and Road Improvements at 11th Street and W. 17th Street: City Council voted to award an $839,300 contract to R.A. Walters and Son of Cape May Court House to replace bulkheads at the ends of 11th Street and W. 17th Street, where tidal water often runs through to flood streets.
