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Council declines to adopt ordinance tightening horse waste rules on 3rd Beach Road after public debate
Summary
After public comment and debate the council voted and recorded opposition to an ordinance amendment addressing horse droppings and 'bags' on beach roads; the Beach Commission had recommended a year‑long trial of voluntary measures, and residents raised liability and enforcement questions.
The council considered a second reading of an amendment to Title 11, Chapter 90 (animals) that would alter disposal rules for horse waste on town beaches and roads. The Beach Commission had recommended giving the equestrian community another year to comply voluntarily; the commission also suggested monitoring and follow‑up rather than immediate enforcement changes.
Multiple residents and council members described safety and nuisance issues on 3rd Beach Road — narrow lanes, lack of sidewalks, and instances where riders and trailers travel with pedestrians, strollers and cyclists nearby. Public commenters, including Chris Khalil, asked whether commercial rides require town permission, whether operators carry insurance, and whether enforcement and fines are being applied consistently; staff said the town has an ordinance allowing riding between sunrise and sunset (70.03) and that animal‑waste enforcement has been used in the past.
Council debate focused on enforcement practicality, liability and the balance between preserving recreational equestrian use and protecting other beach users. A motion to adopt the ordinance amendment was made at the second reading; the council recorded opposition (the president asked "All in favor?" and members answered 'opposed'). The transcript does not record a numerical roll‑call tally.
The council did not adopt the ordinance at the meeting; staff and the Beach Commission were encouraged to continue community outreach and monitor compliance before any new enforcement scheme is imposed.
