Suddenly, family-oriented weekly rentals are illegal in Atlantic City. After more than 170 years of local tradition, things changed overnight. But there is news of another change.
The Inlet section of Atlantic City circa 1909.
Location: Atlantic City
Dateline: 07.27.11
Labor Day weekend 2010, my sister rented a large beach house for extended family, gathering for our niece’s wedding in nearby Charleston, SC. Other family members on both sides rented homes also.
Between houses and hotels, over 200 guests stayed in the area and contributed to the local economy.
The month before, this same niece rented a home in Atlantic City’s Inlet section. Families visiting families in rented homes at the beach joined together time honored traditions at their best.
Suddenly, this type of family oriented weekly rental is illegal in Atlantic City. After more than 170 years of local tradition, things changed overnight.
Ordinance 49 was signed into law July 14, 2011, and prohibits a Transient Vacation Rental of less than 90 days in the 1-R and 2 – RF (Single Family Detached) Districts, and 3-RF (Single Family Attached District) and the RM-1 and the RM-2 (Residential Multi Family) Districts, with fines up to $1,000 daily for non-compliance.
Historically, Atlantic City grew as families built homes and established neighborhoods.
Many would rent rooms; some would move into ground-floor apartments and house guests upstairs. This lifestyle has changed; renting to visitors has not.
My family has been renting and selling seashore real estate for over 60 years. Rental commission has always been a part of our income. Many of these renters return to buy their own rental properties and vacation homes. Some decide to eventually move to the Jersey shore.
Go to Atlantic City’s own Web site to directly touch a piece of this history, where it also states:
“Jeremiah [Leeds] and his family were the first official residents of Atlantic City. Their home and farm was called Leeds Plantation, and Leeds grew corn and rye and raised cattle. A year after Leeds death in 1838, his second wife Millicent got a license to operate a tavern called Aunt Millie’s Boarding House, located at Baltic and Massachusetts Ave. Thus, the first business in Atlantic City was born.
“By the census of 1900, there were over 27,000 residents in Atlantic City, up from a mere 250 just 45 years before.”
Ordinance 49 hurts today’s time-constrained families, stopping any who want to rent a house or condo from spending their money here in Atlantic City.
It hurts those property owners who use the extra rent money to afford second homes, investment properties, and future retirement homes.
It further affects the already tough residential real estate market in Atlantic City. Most importantly, it hurts a town whose very lifeblood is the tourist dollar.
PHOTO: Atlantic City's first hotel. Click here for things have vanished in Atlantic City over its 150-plus years.
We are spending millions of dollars telling folks to DO AC. We can’t welcome them to town by telling them they are doing it illegally.
Atlantic City is at the bottom of an economic heap, trying to dig herself out of a hole where underemployment and unemployment is well over 25 percent. We live in a county where 35 percent of the work force is tied to the casino industry in a town that has reported so many declines in gambling revenue the state had to step in and take over.
Nothing about real estate is like it should be, but it’s better than you might think.
As I read through the close to 100 posted comments, thoughts came to mind about our responsibility as citizens, Atlantic City residents, and Americans.
There's a well known chinese proverb that could be used as our mantra for this issue: "Consider the past and you shall know the future." As Atlantic City celebrates the 150th anniversary of its official incorporation in 1854, it's easy to get caught up in reflections of the past. After all, Atlantic City's past has been so very colorful. But just as the organizers of Sunday's 150th Birthday Party (see "Pinky's Corner," page 6) considered the present and future in theming the event "Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow," so should all who might have a tendency to get lost in memories on such an auspicious occasion. I know, I know ... we haven't helped the cause by including three great articles about Atlantic City's fabled yesterdays in this issue. But we focus on the area's "today and tomorrow" throughout the rest of the issue. So for now, let's "consider the past" ... You can start on page 8 with Jeff Schwachter's piece on Absecon Island's early days leading up to, and immediately following the establishment of the "Queen of Resorts." In this story you'll learn about Dr. Jonathan Pitney, why he was such a visionary and how this Jack of all trades managed...
As far as major New Jersey cities go, you could say Atlantic City was a bit of a late bloomer. Incorporated in 1854, several years after places like Trenton (1789), Camden (1828) and Newark (1836), the city was for many years considered to be a no-man's land by the early settlers. Historians will tell you that the Lenni-Lenape Indians made use of the near-inaccessible strip of land for thousands of years as their summer home. But with the coming of the European settlers in the 1600s, the Lenape population began to drastically decrease. By the 1840s there were only about 2,000 Lenape (which translates roughly to "original people") left in the New Jersey region. Today, one of the few things that remain locally of this Native American tribe is the name they gave to the island, Absecon. The word, a sort of Europeanized take on their word "Absegami," means "little water." Although the city wasn't officially deemed so by the state until 1854, there was a bit of activity here dating back to the late 1600s. Thomas Budd, an Englishman, purchased acres upon acres of land in Atlantic County at that time and is considered by many to be the first...
The long ride south on King's Highway took its toll on the young man. He rode many dusty miles on horseback down this former Indian trail (later to be renamed Shore Road) from his home in Mendham to ...
From the cupola atop his three-story house in the village of Absecon, the doctor could see the barrier island thick with bugs and bayberry bushes across the beachfront. Earlier in the day, he had mad...
From the cupola atop his three-story house in the village of Absecon, the doctor could see the barrier island thick with bugs and bayberry bushes across the beachfront. Earlier in the day, he had made an infrequent visit there, calling on the island's seven residences to attend to any medical needs. Now, as streaks of orange-rimmed dark blue clouds across the twilight sky, he gazed at the horizon from his lofty vantage point. From there, he could reach out and touch the future. What Jonathan Pitney saw in 1850 was the still undeveloped island that the Lenape Indians had named Absegami ("Little Sea Water"), but what he envisioned was a city by the sea, the queen of resort towns. Cape May was already a well-established destination. Why not Absecon Island? The M.D. had ambition beyond dressing wounds and delivering babies; he owned 500 inland acres and wasn't averse to speeding his return on investment. He had been born in Morris County, NJ in 1797 and arrived on horseback in Absecon at age 21, in retrospect an almost mythical figure, tall and angular with penetrating eyes, a flowing mane, and saddlebags stuffed with medical supplies. The area needed a sawbones, and Pitney soon...
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1. Koo Yuen said... on Jul 28, 2011 at 11:29PM
“Great Article to reminisce the Great City of Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA humble beginning. It reminds us her tradition as the place for family vacations. To many generations, it holds those cherish memorable moments when we celebrate those special times in our lives.
My hat off to Mr. Rosenberger for his balance reporting of the City's ordinance # 49 recently enacted by City Hall. Mr. Rosenberger pointed out #49 will affect the way of life in Atlantic City renowned for the tradition, to bring conscience to the City's leadership the importance AC to keep her tradition for generations to come, to allow the Short Term Vacation Rental home owners to flourish, to create jobs and opportunities for all AC citizens who work, live, and invest here, to have welcomed guests and vacationers to call our homes, their homes away from home, to allow them to enjoy the spacious homes while they share the City's Beaches and Boardwalk, while they spend their way to fortune in the Game of Monopoly”
2. ilovetheshore said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 09:22AM
“i have had the privilege of renting homes by the inlet for several years with family and friends and we all have loved every minute of it. i was one of those "i will only go to ocean city" folks until i found the inlet and how family oriented it was and away from the crowds, etc. i am truly hopeful that this ordinance gets lifted or it's back to OC for me and my family and friends...and that would be a real shame for everyone involved, including the city of AC...OC gladly will take our money any day of the week. Wake up AC!”
3. Myiah said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 09:51AM
“Is this a joke? Lol, no wonder AC is going to hell in a hand basket!
Whose bright idea in council was this?”
4. Sylvia Sunshine said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 09:58AM
“I am shocked...it is hard for me to understand how the City can pass such a legislation. HUGE MISTAKE, How can they think they can ever become a resort destination if they cannot offer vacation homes for family get-aways, do they really think they can compete with other shore/beach communities? My question to city council is- HAVE YOU TAKEN A CLOSE LOOK AT YOUR CITY RECENTLY, REALLY? You should THANK THE PEOPLE who have provided a vacation home option in a nice area to promote family and fellowship, NOT PENALIZE THEM. PLEASE, BE REALISTIC...you can stay the same (not a good thing) OR breathe new life into your city...continuing down this path is a grave mistake”
5. scashner said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 10:01AM
“What a horrible ordinance to impose! We recently rented one of these homes with our 3 children for the week. We had the most wonderful experience in Atlantic City that week with our family - so much so we were planning a repeat next summer. With this ordinance in effect -we will look to another place to go - it is truly a shame.
Why would someone stop the resurgence of a great historical place to vacation. TO put more money in the stinky smoke ridden hotels?
Some people like us prefer not to stay in these monsters.
I hope that the AC city council and whomever has imposed this ridiculous ordinance wakes up and realizes they are not helping AC but hurting it even further. AC is currently one of the arm pits of America - WAKE UP and help your community help the city rebuild it to its former glory!
These neighborhoods are what make the city attractive to families like ours and others who want the experience.
”
6. EJ Dennis said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 10:08AM
“Another example of just lip service from leadership about turning this city around! MR. Mayor, is this an example of apartheid?”
7. Ann said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 10:23AM
“City Council is doing a disservice to their constituents! This ordinance is a prime example of just why the state needed to step in to address local officials' incompetence and inability to take Atlantic City to the next level. Not to mention the corruption. City Council, Mayor pay attention, take a long hard look at the condition of your city! There are better things for you to focus attention on, rather than passing an ordinance that attacks the very essence of a tourist destination, look long and hard at yourselves, your city and priorities. Have you even bothered to consider how successful resort/tourist destinations are run? This city has been neglected for too long by the very people that are suppose to ensure its economic growth and development. Don't be complacent, be innovative. Rethink this rash ordinance.”
8. Michelle said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 10:49AM
“This ordinance is ridiculous!!! Do you really want to stop the flow of tourist money coming into AC? There's a reason there are places like AC and that's for families to get away and have a nice vacation. We live in the midwest so we're nowhere near any oceans, mountains or any major metro areas so for us it's nice to go to places like AC where we have the option to rent a house for a week and enjoy all what AC has to offer. It's a much more affordable option for my family since we have 4 kids. If they keep this ordinance we will be forced to go somewhere else and the majority of families like ours will do the same.”
9. Sally said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 10:57AM
“While not ever having had the pleasure of renting on the Jersey Shore, I have many friends whose stories of family vacations spent there in RENTAL HOMES make me jealous! The thought of a City Council shooting themselves in the foot with an ordinance that would decrease tourism dollars is astoundingly stupid....or perhaps a council member has a hidden agenda?!?!”
10. Taylor said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 11:34AM
“I have had the pleasure of staying at a vacation home in the inlet area, and my family had the time of their lives. We had never planned our vacation to AC before because we did not want to spend 5 days crammed into a hotel. We saw a side of the city that needs to be visible to all, if the city wants to lose their 'scary, delapidated, dirty' image, then your city needs help, don't take a path of least resistance and bury your head in the sand. Benchmark yourselves with other tourist locations. Sometimes it takes an outsider to help see reality. As a tourist, who normally chooses OC, MD or Virginia Beach,I say the city officials had better stop turning a blind eye to their problems and focus on cleaning up the city. Not only the sidewalks and alleys, but also city hall. I have seen errors in judgement with city officials lead to great losses of tourism or growth in other areas, and this ordinance wreaks of lack of forward-thinking, global initiatives that promote tourism!”
11. scott said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 11:39AM
“That ordinance makes no sense whatsoever... I live out of town but have been staying in rentals in the inlet since discovering AC several years ago....could not imagine coming to the AC any other way..
Trying to understand who this could possibly benefit? Wow!
”
12. Lynn said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 11:46AM
“WOW!! My family has been coming to Atlantic City for the last 10 years and have stayed at the beach homes every time. We have loved every bit that Atlantic City has to offer and I am saddened that we will have to go elsewhere. It's just not feasible to stay in a hotel room when you have 3 children, nor is it affordable to have to pay for 2 hotel rooms. Getting a beach house for the whole family was the highlight we had to look forward to every year, but I guess we will have to take our business elsewhere! What a horrible decision for the city of Atlantic City, especially when they are so heavily promoting tourism! Thanks Atlantic City for the memories from the past 10 years, but I guess we will have to form new memories elsewhere!”
13. Anonymous said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 11:55AM
“In a crippling and devastating housing market, why in the world and who in the world would further deepen the wound felt by homeowners by shackling them with an ordinance that will only plummet them into foreclosure!! And why? To appease and satsify a few. Vacation renters promote the struggling Atlantic City tourism. Why would anyone want to further the struggle?”
14. Wooley said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 12:09PM
“This is just another example of the government over stepping its boundaries. I for one, hope people in the area that own rental properties ban together and file a lawsuit against the city. This is clearly a bill with other intentions driving it. Could you imagine if cities in Florida for example had this dysfunctional city council running them, and suddenly you couldn’t rent a vacation house? The local economy would crumble, which I’m sure this will cause a huge sting to AC’s economy. Not to mention, how many foreclosures will this bill cause? These houses depend on the rent to pay their mortgages. Guess we will have to bail out Atlantic City with tax funds next.
Another thought, the casino hotels are in the same district as these vacation rental houses. It’s a little strange that they can still rent to vacationers but you’re not allowed to rent your own house? Let’s make sure these elected officials are out of a job so they can do no more damage!
”
15. Beachlover said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 12:09PM
“ARE YOU KIDDING ME????? Have you ever heard of any other shore community doing something so RIDICULOUS??? My parents and grandparents have owned multiple homes in the Atlantic City/Ventnor area for over 75 years. Guess it's time to move our love of the beach elsewhere. Quite sure Avalon, Ocean City, and Cape May are not having this ordinance thrown at them!! This is a perfect example of corrupt politics in Atlantic City! Yes, that's right... you are thinking it & I said it. Who's getting their pockets lined here now?? The HBO show Boardwalk Empire has so effectively and skillfully shown the world the corrupt politics that resides here in Atlantic City- I guess the current politicians want to be sure they continue that disgraceful legacy! better think this one through a bit more boys.”
16. Judy said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 12:14PM
“"From Atlantic City’s humble beginnings as the summer home of the Lenni Lenape Indians to the vision of creating a tourist attraction..." This was taken directly from the Mayor's message on the City website. How then can Atlantic City continue to be known as a tourist attraction if tourists cannot rent in the city unless they plan to stay for 90 days? There are not many people who can afford to vacation for 3 months! Who stands to benefit from this new law except millionaires who can now rent three rooms to a family coming for a week's vacation. I guess the city councilmembers can be bought!
I also find it interesting that the ordinance only applies to select regions of the city. I wonder if maybe there are city councilmembers LIVING in those parts of the city where no short term rentals will be allowed??? Surely the council is not so INCREDIBLY ARROGANT and GREEDY and SELFISH to pass this law rather than, oh I don't know, MOVE TO ANOTHER LOCATION!”
17. Judy said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 12:17PM
“^^millionaires can rent three HOTEL rooms to a family for about double the price of one house rental in the city...”
18. J.C. said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 01:13PM
“What is going to happen to the rental homes? Mr. Mayor would rather see them empty, how sad is this. WHAT HAPPENED TO FAMILY, FUM AND BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES IN A.C. LIKE IT WAS FOR YEARS AND YEARS?”
19. Renee said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 01:41PM
“Thank you Geoff for the informative and insightful article! We can only hope that this ordinance will be rescinded: I hope that the city takes a step back and carefully looks at this ordinance from a 360 degree perspective. Those who rent out homes as vacation rentals to familiies/ friends/professionals for a weekend or week (really- WHO takes a 90 day vacation, or even a 30 day vacation!?) find that It can often be a VERY TOUGH sell when potential tourists call asking 'why AC over Brigantine, Margate or OC. Often asking 'is it safe' and 'what type of neighborhood'? We continuously promote the city as a premier tourist destination. Guests arrive ready to shop, dine and enjoy local attractions. Local Merchants- you stand to lose as well- they visit your corner grocery, your shops at Garners Basin & the boardwalk, order your take-out - translation:these vacation home guests pour dollars into our strugliing AC economy. They come in the spirit of family & friendship! Help us help AC”
20. Blythe said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 03:00PM
“this is unconstitutional for governement to take away a property owner's rights without just compensation. The AC residents should not let this go without a fight!!! I would expect the city to be involved in a lawsuit in the near future!!!!!
THe national media should also be aware of this outrageous overstepping of government powers. what is this world coming to????? pretty soon we will have no rights left.”
21. Dan said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 06:14PM
“I lost my job and now clean for a few of the owners! OMG, our unemployment is 17%.......mr mayor, will you be paying my bills and putting the food on the table for my children?”
22. Mr. K said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 07:52PM
“Bring it on Atlantic CIty!!! We can really use some tourism dollars here in OC!! Come to our area, we have LOTS of vacation beach homes availbable for short weekend stays for your families or gatherings! 90 day stays........hahahaha How ridiculous!!”
23. Noah and Emma said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 08:03PM
“We have been coming down to AC every year to enjoy everything AC has to offer. What a shame we will have to find a different vacation spot!”
24. Alex said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 08:15PM
“This ordinance is dealing AC a bad hand. Come on AC wise up. I play poker and am in quite often (a week every other month) and bring along my wife and kids. The vacation home where we always stay gives us a home away from home as opposed to my wife having to be couped up with our 3 kids in a hotel. This way my whole family wins. Happy wife, happy life we need the option of a vacation home. Let's shuffle up and deal a new hand AC in favor of vacation rentals or I will have to find a new place to stay in a shore town nearby, and Im not bluffing.”
25. David said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 09:37PM
“How could anybody w/some common sense allow this to pass in the first place!! The economy is already in the tank and this ordiance puts a damper on any hopes of the economy turning around. The property owners need the extra income to be able to make their mortgage payments. AC is a vacation/tourist destination and when tourists come to the casinos they need a place to stay and eat. They spend money which in turns helps out the local econmomy, including the vacation home owners. When the vacation home owners receive their rental $$'s, then they can help put a stimulus into the local economy.”
26. Kbird said... on Jul 29, 2011 at 10:52PM
“R U Kidding? This is absolutly ridiculious! Who r these folks on city council making these crazy laws? What is the real underlying reason that you would want to stop tourist dollars from comng in and giving jobs to the local folks. I have had the pleasure of renting one of these beautiful homes and my family has put money into the economy of AC. I really hope the home owners fight this and city council you need to over turn this stupid ordinance. Wake up do you really want people to take their money elsewhere?”
27. Patricia Y. said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 07:38AM
“This prohibition made by the City Council is against all human decencies. My husband and I first came to AC two years ago to try our hands at the tables and spent a week in Atlantic Palace Suites, a timeshare exchange in August 2009. We took a short walk and fell in love with the NE inlet along Maine Ave. We saw over 20 beautiful homes posted "for sale" sign begging for buyers to "take me" in this lovely neighborhood. We did our due diligent by checking with a local counsel and our Realtor who work with us to procure the sale. At the time, we expressed our intention to purchase our AC Oceanfront Home in the NE Inlet as our second home, and if not occupied, we like to offer to short term vacationers who can benefit from our 6 bedrooms home. Their assurance to me and my husband was short term rentals in AC were perfectly legal and no regulation prohibits it. Now, the city wanted to take those rights from us by their stoke of a pen. This one-sided act is un- American and certainly smells.”
28. tina said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 10:03AM
“i just read the ordinance. Judy it looks like it is not a council member, the only testimony provided was from the City Solicitor, Bruce Ward, who was behind all of this. An appointed position from the mayors office wants to shut down tourism dollars!! Nucky is dead don't bring him back, Bruce should be fired what kind of example is this? Aha, alas the rotten apple has been found out, Mr Mayor please don't let this rotten apple taint the rest of the apples in your barrel. All eyes are on you to do the right thing Mr Mayor”
29. A.C. Inlet Supporter said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 10:15AM
“Thank you Mr. Rosenberger for taking the time to remind us of the history of Atlantic City and how families looked forward to spending there summers and money in A.C. While every city and municipality across America is looking for ways to generate streams of revenue to deal with the sour economic conditions, the recent decision to pass Ordinance #49, which prevents certain
homeowners to rent their properties, defies logic and common sense. These homeowners are providing alternative housing options to those families who
do not want stay in hotels or afford to stay in hotels for a week. In addition,ordinance #49 will discourage families from coming to Atlantic City and taking their resources to other vacation destinations. Given the intense
competition from PA, Del, NY, CT and other close by shore towns, you would
think the leadership of this town would encourage and not discourage new
business and investment opportunities. Wake Up City Council now is not the time to go backwards.”
30. Trish said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 10:30AM
“Maybe he wanted to force people into foreclosure so that the could reap the benefits for himself and his cronies! Who are wards friends in office?”
31. EJ said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 11:04AM
“The inlet is one of the few jewels of the area, why wouldn't you want tourists to discover this? Tina/trish, I think your right! What a horrible statement this makes, his actions demonstrate such abuse of power! ward, why don't you take that effort to clean up Stanley homes, where someone is shot every 10 minutes? Or would you prefer to send tourists there instead? We taxpayers pay your salary, use your authority to promote tourism not cripple the very fiber of our economy!”
32. KLY said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 11:20AM
“According to Tina posting #28. This entire Ordinance # 49 fiasco came from a sole instigator, Mr. Bruce Ward. What a shame, and travesty to democracy process? Mr. Ward does not even have the decency to inform his adored next door neighbor that he planned to introduce bill #49 to be heard and the adverse consequence to his beloved neighbor if passed. Mr. Ward's fond neighbor occasionally rents his home to short term vacationers to defray his cost of home-ownership as any prudent person would do. Instead, Mr. Ward sneaks this bill into the City Council without the courage to let his neighbor and his NE inlet development district neighbors to have a voice. A phone call, knock on the the door, or an emailing is Cheap. He hoodwinked the entire Atlantic City Goverment Body without regarding to his public position to serve the AC citizens fairly and squarely. He forgot the Trust AC citizens had placed in him to uphold the Law and Order. He place his self-interest and desire above ALL OTHER.”
33. Tina said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 11:45AM
“What a coward! Lead by example Mr. Ward and I heard only his neighbors were targeted with the threatening letter, while the landlords renting by the hour are off free and clear?!”
34. Trish said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 11:50AM
“Who maintains checks and balances for the city solicitors office?????”
35. Sylvia Sunshine said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 11:53AM
“As I read these comments, I have to say that this is just plain sad. The city has been poorly run for far too long from what I see of the condition of things. One can see that at one time, some investment had been put in to the infrastructure, but then allowed to deteriorate. A prime example of a city being poorly managed by officials who are only in it for their personal gain. All the millions in the world cannot help as long as there are incompetents behind the desks that drive decisions. It sounds like this Ward individual has demonstrated negligence in his actions in pursuit of this ordinance. I have great empathy for these property owners who have been impacted, well actually BULLIED by this Ward and his cohorts. A sorry state of affairs.”
36. Anonymous said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 12:04PM
“Hey there have been 'anti-bullying' legislations passed for children, what about a legislation banning the bullying of citizens by city officials. Why was this Ward the only one who testified in front of council to get this passed? Do the meeting notes read as "PERSONAL AGENDA" instead of 'public agenda'????”
37. trish said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 12:27PM
“History has taught us that what is more dangerous than any 'crime ring' is when those in either appointed or elected positions abuse their authority that has either directly, or indirectly been bestowed upon them by citizens in good faith to act with objectivity, equality and most important integrity in passing or enforcing legislations. This ordinance has the appearances of abusing power for personal reasons.”
38. Anonymous said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 12:31PM
“Amen, well said trish. abuse of power has bankrupted any integrity.”
39. Forest Gump said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 01:01PM
“I heard Ward was being groomed for Mayor, most cities have succession planning.....if this is the best that they have on their bench....we are all doomed!”
40. June said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 01:57PM
“My family vacationed in Atlantic City this past May. We truly enjoyed our beach house and all the memories we experienced. WHAT IS THE REASON FOR ORDINANCE #49? IS THERE A GOOD REASON.? Do you honestly want to eliminate all the revenue that vacationers bring to your city? All cities need a good revenue to maintain and build. PLEASE RETHINK AND KNOW THAT THIS COULD BE THE BEGINNING OF THE
END FOR ATLANTIC CITY AS A VACATION SPOT?”
41. Sam Toma said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 02:46PM
“As part of a family that just spent a lovely week in a rental in Atlantic City, I am disappointed that we will not have the opportunity to return due to the recently passed legislation. It seems to me that some in the Atlantic City government are willing to embrace the tourism that the city attracts on their own terms only. It is hypocritical for these politicians to assert that Atlantic City has more to offer than its casinos (which it does), while making sure that all who visit are effectively segregated to the casinos.
In these times of economic hardship, I cannot believe that a city that has been hit as hard as any other in New Jersey would, in one fell swoop, push the revenue that additional tourism brings to surrounding municipalities and further depress its own citizens by depriving income to those who manage such rentals. I hope that the legislators involved in enacting this ordinance are called upon to acknowledge that it benefits not their residents, but only themselves.”
42. Anonymous said... on Jul 30, 2011 at 04:29PM
“This is Bullshit! What kind of bafoon would think this is the way to go! If you want a mass exodus of the Atlantic City community and the crime rate increasing at record rates then keep this ordinance, if you want it to flourish you better dissolve it immediately. I know I will be calling my attorneys first thing monday morning because of this communistic stunt this ordinance is trying to pull. This won't go through without a major fight and I will be getting a website up ASAP revolting against this demented ordinance! I have already started a social media blitz exposing this negative ludicrous ordinance and will be exposing it to more media outlets as I have major connections to MANY media outlets. Good luck with your nazi mentality and we will see you in court!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”
43. Lana said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 07:48AM
“Gees, who needs enemies when you have neighbors like ward!?! Is this your definition of community? Why do you feel your property rights supersede others? Where is your sense of decency? You should be ashamed!”
44. JUSTICE BE SERVED said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 08:01AM
“CALLING GOVERNOR CHRISTIE, you said you were committed to AC, And have put " forward a series of rigorous ethics reform measures that are in step with his commitment to change the culture of government in New Jersey and demand accountability to better serve the people." the proposed measure include "Real Penalties For Those Who Violate The Public’s TRUST"
Ward and those involved should have consequences for their actions!! How much of our tax dollars were spent to see this ordinance pass? PLEASE DO WHAT YOU SAY AND SAY WHAT YOU DO! WARD SHOULD BE FIRED!”
45. Anonymous #45 responding to #42 said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 08:10AM
“To Anonymous #42, you seem to have all the right stuffs. You got all the right adjectives, nouns, verbs, and the superb vocabulary to describe the sorry state of Atlantic City hierarchy who purportedly running the show. They will realize sooner than later after your Delta Force landed on Top of their Palace at 1301 Bacharach Blvd, then they will become nothing, and reduced to some sorry _ss pedants.”
46. Justin said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 08:53AM
“This is no surprise to me as a life long resident of Philly. Im very aware of the stigma of AC and overall lack of appeal. PA casino revenues are pushing past AC casinos, better wake up and be smart (to be smart will need to give people like this Ward and others the boot) Better bring in new blood, outsiders who are not stuck in complacency & corruption. You need new perspective and innovative city officials and planners and currently YOU DONT HAVE THE GOODS TO FOOT THE BILL SO TO SPEAK. I rented a vacation home in the inlet this year w/ 3 others to attend a professional conference, and it was impeccably decorated and immaculate. Attendees who stayed at the hotel said the rooms were nasty& the area outside the hotel was undesirable and unsafe (2 people even got bedbugs). They had a very different lodging experience than I did. Our next event is in Las Vegas. See ya AC...NOT! Seriously out with the old and in with the new, AC needs A LOT of change and Revel cant solve all!”
47. Anonymous said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 09:18AM
“Good point Justin. I think AC forgets, or is blind, to what the perception of their city is. The city has a nasty, seedy, slick image, and it looks like the council and officials mirror that. There was a time when NYC had a seedy image because of the seedy establishments in the theater district and the crime rate. They were fortunate to have a mayor that cleaned up their act. They can bring a dozen more Revels with the 'bright and shiny' but the overall city, its image and its government are pitiful, tarnished and sadly lacking. AC is sort of like a Monet, from far away it 'looks' bright and shiny, but up close, whew it is a mess, unclear in image and purpose'. I am sorry for these vacation homeowners that put money into AC, dumped dollars,taxes, faith, hope, perserverence into this city, only to be slapped in the face by council. Sounds like these people don't want outsiders? Or is it some corrupt personal agenda to push outsiders out for good?”
48. Ann said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 10:54AM
“I hear some common themes. Property owners rights, people who have invested in AC because they believe in it and provide a lodging option that contributes to tourism, people looking for equitable representation in government, people wanting to contribute to the 'new AC' one where tourists leave saying 'what a great place', people who recognize a need to change and understand it takes innovation, observation, global-thinking, and engaging others. Hmmm, can you say constitutional rights? I recently came across an article in the NYT that listed top WORST places to purchase/invest in real estate, guess what AC was the 2nd worst. Yet these vacation rental homeowners want to make this a success in AC. There are plently of areas they could have chosen to do this, they chose AC. AC officials, will you not recognize these property owners as potential supporters of a greater cause- to point AC in the right direction! Please for the good of all, make this right.”
49. Anonymous said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 11:00AM
“I agree with all of the above. Thank you Geoff Rosenberger for informing us of this issue. Keep us posted please on any developments. I am anxious to see this made right by city council. Come on city council, Mr Mayor, you can do it, make this right.”
50. uninterested parties said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 11:40AM
“Admittedly, I am a dumb and stupid AC homeowner. Just curious, where is Mr. Bruce Ward's supporters who claim to galvanize him to write or propose the Ordinance #49 and #50?
Am I missing something here even-though my IQ is much below the level of the IQ or EQ of Mr. Ward holds?? Where are those constituents Pro Mr. Ward's on-shore witch hunt expedition? Unless I am also blind, not one word heard or written from those disgruntled citizens against vacation rental homeowners came out to raise their voices in this GEOFF'S PAGE public forum, let alone to find a sentence or the entire paragraph to come to aid Mr. Ward's solo testimony or to sides with him in the Public Agenda heard in the AC City Council Chamber some months ago???? Where are YOU, I am waiting for you to come out of the woodwork.”
51. fashionforward said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 12:03PM
“I always liked bewitched, LOL. You nailed it for sure, this sounds like a wich hunt, Too bad we cannot twitch our noses and make this non-sensical non-productive ordinanace go away. JUST SAY NO TO ORDINANCES 49 AND 50!!!!!! What do we want....ordinance repeal...when do we want it, NOW.”
52. Unrepresented said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 12:11PM
“An open letter to the "City Solicitor" of the City of Atlantic City, New Jersey :
Dear Honorable Mr. Bruce Ward, Esq., the great current Attorney General or in this part of the world, we greet you "Solicitor General" of the City of Atlantic City, New Jersey:
Can you come out of your hiding path and say a few words in this column. I believe the homeowners regardless they engage in Short Term, Transient Vacation Rentals in AC or not or just a good soul like yourself who hibernate 365 days a year in your own castle in AC's NE Inlet neighborhood or those homeowners at large in the City of AC, and by this extension, the entire world are NOW waiting patiently and are dying to hear from you "what say you"????”
53. Let's not forget Mancuso said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 02:57PM
“Let us not leave out Councilman MANCUSO that stood up and hollered, "We want teeth in this Ordinance". AC already has Ordinances with teeth for trash and excessive noise. Urinating…I see it lots from year round residents but not to many visitors. Councilman Mancuso, why don't you take care of monitoring those hourly establishments in your Ward? Do I remember a while back hearing about you drive on the boardwalk drunk? Doesn’t Atlantic City have an Ordinance against that? You didn't care and your cronies looked the other way. What about when you were inside the voting poles speaking with people trying to vote? You didn’t follow those rules either. Step back and take a good look at your behavior and how you’re running your Ward. It’s not exemplary. The good old boys syndrome has been around here for way to long. Maybe it’s time for residents to bring in the big guns...State Representatives and Attorneys. Council…you don’t own Atlantic City and this is not your personal private backyard playground.
Mr. Governor if you are tracking this…we need help here AC. Maybe, The Donald should come run for office. We can always use more elephants.
”
54. DESPERADO said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 04:12PM
“I've been calling the governor since Thursday. I really hope he will stand up for us, putting corrupt politicians is his specialty! Please help us!”
55. looking glass said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 04:37PM
“Honorable Gov. Christie has put his share of corrupt politicians away, out of office, out of business so I have hope that he will intervene as i think that these AC city offcials are already on his radar.”
56. oh no you didn't... said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 04:44PM
“Let's face it, the "C" word here is corruption, as in corrupt city officials' personal agendas. The "F" word here is failure, as in failure to make decisions in the best interest of the city and their constutuents.”
57. toto said... on Jul 31, 2011 at 04:55PM
“reading these comments is more informative than dateline, LOL. Hey # 53, What's this about a drunk drive on the boardwalk? Hourly rentals? Now showing 'The Wizard of AC' lies, corruption and 49/50 OH MY!!!!”
58. Tax as commercial said... on Aug 1, 2011 at 06:30AM
“In this bill it speaks of taxing these folks as if it was a commercial property. It's not commercial property. it doesn't product manufacture or sell a manufactured products. It's residential income property and offers a service. Residents all must own a hotels or something because my tax bill just went up $500.00 this quarter. Just like everything else Income property is taxed 3 ways City, State and Federal. The economy took a dump and Atlantic City is going to have to cut back on their spending just like everyone else and stop these increases. Are you trying to run investors out of AC? You've run others out of office maybe it's time for City Officers to be replaced for their part in allowing Ordinance 49 and 50 to hurt this vacation destination.”
59. Anonymous said... on Aug 1, 2011 at 08:20AM
“There is absolutely not one intelligent reason for this ordinance to pass! It is so obviously stupid that this should be shared with " America's dumbest criminals". I am calling out ward and all those who supported this insanity, look at the liability our solicitor and council has gotten us into...homeowners deserve what they have coming. Multiple million dollar settlements and punitive damages for allowing their officials to violate a homeowners rights. What will we see next? Crosses being burned in my yard? Oh that would be ok if it's the solicitor that erected it. NOT, he deserves to be fired and put away!!! Does anyone know the demographic of those homeowners who received letters? My guess.....all minorities!!! We shall see...”
60. taylor said... on Aug 1, 2011 at 08:20AM
“These officials really don't care about the vacation home renters, nor do they like outsiders coming into their little city to see how truly inept they are, Can you imagine what the town would be like without CRDA? A big sewer of poverty and deterioration. They should welcome new people willing to invest in their city, because it is a huge risk. My friends, family and associates questioned my sanity when I first came here. Now in reading all of this and this 49 thing, I question my own sanity for coming here.”
61. What the Hell... said... on Aug 1, 2011 at 08:43AM
“Dear Mr. Mayor, City Council & Ms. City Solicitor:
* Is it legal to amend/change an ordinance and not contact all interested parties?
* Is it legal to amend/change an ordinance due to a city officials (GBW) personals reasons?
* Are you prepared to see Atlantic City go to hell in a hand basket on your watch?
* Are you certain that all members involved in this Ordinance change pay property tax? Or, are the living w/a partner that does? Hmmm...
* If the hotel industry has a nuisance renter, do you write an ordinance to shut them down? Or, do you simply call the Police?
* If one wants the privacy and enjoyment of a 'Hot Tub', do you install one in your 4x4 yard in AC? Or, do you purchase a beach front property that would allow privacy?
* How do you handle the AC locals who venture down the street, throwing trash in your yard, using foul language and improperly clad? Is there an ordinance for that?
Recognize! These homeowners bring Revenue to AC!”
62. live2golf said... on Aug 1, 2011 at 08:51AM
“Looks like the city overshot the green on this one and right into a sandtrap. I run multiple businesses in the NYC area and visit AC on occasion. When I bring my family along, I rent a vacation home in the inlet area of town. We have had positive experience each time, but it took major pleading from my end to convince the wife to come. Believe me (and my wallet) she spends a great deal of money when we are here. We visit many tourist areas with beaches because of my additcion to golf, so I would caution the city to rethink this from a business perspective because vacation rentals of 2 days or greater is the standard. Many, like myself expect this option, as a matter of fact I can enjoy these type of rentals from the Eastern Seaboard to the Pacific coast (and have). As a Wharton MBA I can run the numbers, and this ordinance makes no financial sense. This city needs intervention NOW.”
63. live2golf said... on Aug 1, 2011 at 08:59AM
“To point #64, this is a prime example why that city needs intervention. My condolences to all of the property owners who have fallen victim to poorly run, nepotistic, small-minded city government. Signing off to catch a train, but good luck to you vacation renters.”
64. Frequent AC Tourist said... on Aug 1, 2011 at 09:56AM
“This is the most outrageous and stupid thing I have ever heard! Every town up and down the East coast allows vacation home rentals; what reason would Atlantic City have to make this illegal? I have been coming to AC with either family or groups of friends for the past 5 years, and we always rent a home. It is cozier and enables us to stay together for our reunions or get-away/vacation time. I know the people we rent from obtain income form their home rentals, and have made an investment into the community, believeing that AC will continut to grow and prosper. Not only are those home owners going to be severley affected in a down economy, families and friends will stop vacationing in AC if these home rentals are not an option. From these expereinces, I have been contacted by other freinds and from my family's friends for such rental opportunities -- to take their family away for a vacation week to AC. This law is totally absurd!”
65. Mom's plea said... on Aug 1, 2011 at 11:21AM
“Seems to me if AC wants to attract families, then they would realize these vacation homes are necessary and expected. First, what middle class family can vacation for more than 1 week (if they exist, will one of them please adopt me?!); second, to 64, families like to stay in a home setting rather than being cramped up. It fosters family and friends gathering to make memories to last decades/generations to come. The fun at the beach, the cook-outs, the sitting around the kitchen table laughing about the days events, etc- vacation homes are all about this. In today's economy we are lucky to be able to vacation, and AC is lucky to be chosen as the destination; please AC don't take away our choice in accomodations. We need a vacation; we want a vacation home rental option and you need our tourist dollars!!! Even our kids come with piggy banks to spend! My 7 year old son exclaimed last year as we neared your skyline, "MAN I LOVE THIS CITY". Please AC, don't force us to go elsewhere!”
66. Picture perfect??? Not! said... on Aug 1, 2011 at 11:45AM
“To #61, the one isolated instance where AC police were dispatched to one of the vacation homes for noise, etc, the renters were policemen and firemen from another city/state. They flashed badges to the dispatched officers and were given a break- ac police didnt see it being that bad- let 'em go. The Majority of the noise in the warm months comes from the inlet beach area that local residents use(drums, loud music, yelling, profanity) After a weekend litter is scattered by these local beach-goers throughout the neighborhood, bottles and cans left in front of homes by locals(including vacation homes) Police were called to break up a big fight a few years ago in this neighborhood- it was AC locals. Prostitutes have been seen in cars with their 'clients' on Maine avenue providing 'services' NOT to vacation renters please note. Hypodermic needles in the landscaping along the promenade area (and used condoms and panties) grills have been set on the bulkhead and burned large areas.”
67. Picture perfect???Not! said... on Aug 1, 2011 at 12:00PM
“Really, in reading the testimony given in the ordinance, you would think this is a pristine little community with streets of gold. The above mentioned things are always present. The city has to allocate significant tax dollars into sanitation and clean-up- which is cyclical because as soon as it is cleaned, then comes yet another wave of ac local r&r. PLease don't get me wrong, local residents deserve a place to enjoy the beach, but the neighborhoods deserve a little respect too. Loitering, stolen property, rocks thrown at homes, etc have all been issues (not caused by vacation renters). Vacation renters have to be cautioned not to leave valuables in cars, or even bikes outside. It's not like vacation renters coming to AC get the Hamptons, seriously, we are fortunate that the opt to visit here. Also, there have been times when vacation renters have complained about noise levels or a stranger sitting on the steps, etc. You know, Ac can be a little scary to tourists.”
68. animal house?! said... on Aug 1, 2011 at 12:11PM
“I understand the're calling it an animal house ordinance, let me say that it is an 'animal house' type of environment on the boardwalk by the northeast inlet beach all of the time. It gets progreesively loud and louder after the sun goes down. Drinking, loud talking, cursing. loud music, there was even graphitti of a fraternity spray painted on the boardwalk last year that the city had to clean off. That sounds like animal house to me, if you have seen the movie, which i am assuming coined the term for this. It gets really crazy sometimes. I am all in support of people celebrating and having a good time, but let's keep it real here...this poses much more of a nuisance than any vacation rental has.”
69. Anonymous said... on Aug 1, 2011 at 01:26PM
“I just wanted to chime in- I am a supporter of vacation rentals- this is a beautiful area of AC, the inlet, and the little inlet beach is nice. I have enjoyed it for several years now and think it really offers a nice little resort community. I have seen many improvements and hope that we can all come together despite differences and arrive at a reasonable solution for all. After all, I think we all have one thing in common, an interest and appreciation for the inlet and the city. I think what the vacation home owners are asking is for an equal representation as taxpayers, and they feel they have not had a chance with this rushed one-dimensional ordinance,not unreasonable in our democracy. Mr Mayor, Council, will you give them a chance.”
70. Opinion pollster speaking said... on Aug 2, 2011 at 05:04AM
“Just looking over the previous 69 or so comments made by various parties, from tourists, to concerned homeowners, and to those AC citizens who depend on AC industries for their bread and butter on the tables, needless to say, there is NOT one FOR voice written in this GEOFF'S PAGE to support the passage of The City of Atlantic City Ordinance #49 and # 50.
I can only surmised after reading these intelligent postings made by various concerned parties and for lack of any opposing views, either:
1) Honorable Bruce Ward fabricated the entire testimony he gave at the AC city council Public Agenda. In his talks to the Council members, he claimed to have received numerous complaints from AC homeowners to cause him to take action against transient vacation rentals homeowners in NE Inlet district and homeowners elsewhere in the the AC proper
2) or this GEOFF'S PAGE/ Atlantic City Weekly has very poor circulations for lack of readership and it reaches to those citizens who are somewhat literate”
71. advocate for the people said... on Aug 2, 2011 at 09:50AM
“In reading the ordinance, speaking with various parties who have been impacted or support the vacation home owners, it seems that this ordinance is wrapped in a persoanl agenda as many have expressed. A time constraint on rental duration will not ensure good experiences. Banning internet advertising (this is not constitutional and cannot be enforced) is not a solution. This ordinance is a sort of 'red-lining' method targeting specific individuals. Do not rest until this is repealed as it dangerously skirts the area of unfair skewed behavior of your city officials. It is poorly drafted, inequitably presented with only a few in mind and exemplary of those instances of appointed or elected officials serving their own agenda, with no consideraiton of long-term impact. I caution, think before you pass an ordinance with such clear negligence in understanding where the city need to be and where they currently are.”
72. neighbor for right to have vacation rentals said... on Aug 2, 2011 at 10:18AM
“I live on the same block as some of the vacation homes and I support my neighbors who do rentals. There have been few isolated incidents of noise from the vacation rentals, but there is a lot of noise and littering from people who live in atlantic city not vacation renters. I would not call the vacation homes nuisance properties or animal houses. These houses are very nice properties. I do not have a problem with the rentals and to say they are a nuisance is not true.”
73. Concerned said... on Aug 2, 2011 at 12:06PM
“Please make sure to update us on the outcome of this Mr Rosenberger, or any new developments. I side with the vacation homeowners, although not one myself. I own a home and may want to rent it one day. I have talked to neighbors and it is a select few on this bandwagon of inequity. I heard that one supporter of the ordinance has a shop in Gardner's Basin and had asked for the vacation homeowners to place their fliers in the vacation homes. If they are so opposed to vacation rentals, but at the same time want the vacation tenants to shop at their establishment, then do they really think they are that horrible? I guess they underestimate the tourism dollars that can come their way from these tenants (many very affluent, all ready to spend money). I hope the vacation homeowners remove any mention of tthis shop and stop pointing tenants to them to spend dollars. I also hope the vacation homeowners prevail! It concerns me that their rights are being tromped upon.”
74. Wake up! said... on Aug 2, 2011 at 01:28PM
“FYI... Check out Philadelphia Magazine August 2011 Edition. Atlantic City's Last, Last, Last, (6x) Chance. Do City officials believe The Revel (due May 2012) will save AC? Has any of the existing Hotel/Casinos saved AC? Folks, wake up! These Homeowners bring revenue to AC 'Today', 'Tomorrow', and the 'Future'. They are your "saviour"”
75. yes wake up and wise up before it's too late said... on Aug 2, 2011 at 02:01PM
“hey Wake Up, thanks for the info. I dont really think mayor, council and esp city solicitor understand the dire straights the city is in. A reasonable and imtelligent person with business savvy would do all to support any entrepreneur, person, property owner who is working to draw more tourists to the city. again more tourists=more revenue. Have they ever read how these vacation rentals describe/promote the city? I did and it is a fantastic ad for AC and all it has to offer. this ordinance is an example of selfish, backwards thinking that contributes to the stagnant ac economy. Dont discount these vacation homeowners as insignificant and never underestimate their value. solicitor, council, et al, in politics if you're wise, you never burn bridges and this bridge is in flames! Listen to Wake Up and wake up!”
76. Oh what tangled webs.... said... on Aug 2, 2011 at 04:15PM
“The article that Wake Up 74 mentions is interesting. It mentions the corrupt ac city officials, incompetence and the state stepping in. It alludes to casinos not being the sole answer. It also mentions that AC mayor, et al resented the tourism district being defined by Christie. Let's lump the 49/50 ordinance in with the 'ac con men's' pathetic personal agenda that will lead to the city's end. The problems it does mention are in no way a result of the ac vacation homeowners or their tenants, yet instead ages of poorly run local government including current admin.”
77. For everyone's convenience to take one last look at AC said... on Aug 2, 2011 at 07:44PM
“phillymag.com/articles/atlantic_city_s_last_last_last_last_last_last_chance/”
78. Sad state of the AC city government Saga said... on Aug 3, 2011 at 06:21AM
“Not to add salts to the wound, or putting more oil to a fire:
Quote from Philly Magazine article: Atlantic City's Last, Last, Last, Last, Last, Last Chance
By Patrick Kerkstra
Posted on August 2011
Four of the city’s last 10 mayors—and more council members than I could count—have been brought up on charges. “This is a carnival town,” Whelan, the former Atlantic City mayor and current state senator says when I ask him about political corruption. “The carnival exists to take your money. And at the carnival, everybody is in on the con.”
Based on statistics and probabilities: Could the current AC Mayor, the honorable Mr. Langford and his entourage, not limited to his point man, Mr. Ward, Esq, lump together with each of the members of the AC City Council ENDED UP in New Jersey State or Federal Penitentiary to serve HARD time like most of other criminals who get caught doing petty,and grand larceny, and doing unjust and awful things against Mankind in Atlantic City???”
79. Anonymous said... on Aug 3, 2011 at 07:42AM
“Well stated 'Sad State', the sad thing is, they only embrace themselves, or their cronies and will not accept that outsiders could run the city better. I think that there was definitely more to this ordinance than what was stated by 'city council' or shoud we refer to them as the carnival folks? And Mr. Mayor, as far as police patrols being beefed up in the tourism district, that is not a lack of caring for AC citizens; it is common sense to know that crime element target tourist areas- muggings, roberries, etc- and making tourists feel secure leads to better tourism. Someone mentioned NYC and its clean-up, same concept. Keep up your agenda and I agree AC will be 'Little Camden by the Sea'. You should be embarrassed of your seedy image, shake it - in city government, in the city's sorry state and all. Apartheid was seriously misused Mr Mayor, that was a real civil rights issue, a serious one, and you should be ashamed to have uttered the word in that context.”
80. Hurry Hurry Step Right Up said... on Aug 3, 2011 at 08:01AM
“I posted previously, but after catching the article in Phiadelphia Magazine, wanted to mention that eventually the carnival has to leave town. AC is a fiasco of bad, corrupt politics. The city would make a good profile of 'How NOT to run a city'. Might as well seel tickets so we, the public, can see which con man wins the biggest prize.”
81. Real perspective said... on Aug 3, 2011 at 10:04AM
“Here's the deal. AC is a small town with big city infrastructure needs and big city issues. This small town local government needs to step aside and let the 'big boys and girls' take care of pushing this 'city' to the level at which it can be. How could the city not embrace the vacation homeowners with open arms,asking what they can do for them- not attack them, discriminate against them and try to shut them down. It to me sounds like the city solicitor guy wanted his little block all to himself- hey Mr Ward can you swing the 24k or so in proerty taxes as well?”
82. Anonymous said... on Aug 3, 2011 at 10:17AM
“AC=All Corrupt
AC= Abominable Council
AC= Absence of conscience
AC=Absolutely crooked
AC= A CHANGE is needed in local government”
83. Cali said... on Aug 3, 2011 at 12:25PM
“AC is on the way to being a city of 'lost hope' if they don't break old habits. Old habits die hard, but especially in this economy, last chances easily pass by only to leave behind ghost towns with extinct economies, high crime rates, poverty and apathy. AC city officials "think" they have the answers, they are sadly mistaken.”
84. Read em and weap said... on Aug 3, 2011 at 01:58PM
“I am hearing for tons of people in support of the vacation homeowners. Looks as if there is consensus on several things:
1) something 'funny' or should we say something personal is the motive behind the ordinance
2) all hope the homeowners press this full 'court' as in judiciary if necessary
3)some have said it wreaked as far as the letters being carved out to very specific homeowners, when if a homeowner is renting less than 90 days they would have been in violation. Letter recipients lived in closest proximity to the solicitor
4) the city gov't doesn't have what it takes to make ac great
5) ac has far worse and more serious problems- real problems- that need help.
6) the testimony to pass said ordinance was skewed and biased.
This whole issue holds all the cards to point to local gov't incompetency...read em and weap...literally weap as this is really sad and pathetic.”
85. acrevolt@hotmail.com said... on Aug 4, 2011 at 06:24AM
“The Atlantic City Homeowners are currently under tremendous pressure to seek supporters and to raise money for their legal representation to overturn the City of Atlantic City, City Council Ordinance numbers 49 and 50. WE need your help desperately. Please help by signing the petition by sending us your one liner email, including your name, and home city, state, country. We promise not to contact you or ask you for money. Thanks to all concerned citizens at large in the greater Atlantic City, and elsewhere. WE as a group of Vacation Rentals Homeowners and providers in the City of Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA are deeply indebted to you for doing this.”
86. lifetimeresident said... on Aug 4, 2011 at 01:56PM
“keep getting people involved, this city government is so corrupt and destroyed its finally time for people to WAKE UP! AND GET INVOLVED!”
87. I_second_that said... on Aug 4, 2011 at 02:08PM
“You said it lifetimeresident, the only way to change things and hold this corrupt city govt accountable is to get involved, speak out, before it is too late.”
88. I2ndthat said... on Aug 4, 2011 at 02:14PM
“You said it lifetimeresident. The only way to change things and hold this corrupt city govt accountable is to get involved, speak up before its too late!”
89. End of the opinion show for NOW. said... on Aug 5, 2011 at 08:45PM
“The END of this episode”
90. Speak_Up_Or_Fail said... on Aug 8, 2011 at 03:21PM
“This is something that we need more of in AC. Discussion. Input. Feedback. Transparency. Columns like this. Keep on keeping on Mr Rosenberger!!”