Council approves higher street and beach-block parking rates over objections

The Atlantic City Council on June 18 approved an ordinance raising on-street parking rates from $1 to $1.50 per hour and increasing certain beach-block rates from $2 to $2.50.

The change, adopted on first reading as Ordinance 6e, drew debate among council members about whether higher parking fees would reduce boardwalk foot traffic. "No. From a dollar to a dollar 50 from 2 to $2.50 in certain locations. Beach block area and and so forth," Director Finch said when explaining the rate adjustments.

Councilwoman Marshall said she supported adding a paid block near the Golden Nugget but said she would vote against the overall increase because of concerns about deterring customers and tourism: "I'm reluctant to do anything to, deter any way foot traffic. . . . I really liked when the administration did that, like, local business free day, and, that that's where I'm coming from." Councilmembers Kurtz and Tibbitt cast the two ‘‘no’’ votes; the motion passed 6–2.

Revenue and finance committee materials included the proposal earlier in the meeting, and the committee chair had recommended support, noting the city remains below comparable rates in some markets. Director Finch told the council the city’s split of the revenue increase would not change and that a new street added near the Golden Nugget would be included in the pay zones.

What it means: The ordinance will raise rates citywide in the specified locations after the adoption process is completed; the city will receive a known share of the increase under existing arrangements. Council members asked the administration to compare the new rates with private parking lots and provide that analysis before second reading.

Next steps: The ordinance moves toward final adoption at second reading, when staff will provide any requested comparative data and any technical amendments. The council asked the administration to return with additional details before the final vote.