Beach Haven council hears heated public debate over craft fairs, vows policy to protect businesses and Veterans Park

A crowded public comment period at the Beach Haven Borough Council’s Feb. 10 meeting laid bare a split between year-round merchants and market vendors over how many craft fairs and flea markets the borough should permit, and where vendors should be allowed to park.

“Businesses are in favor of bringing people to town but not at the expense of competition for their direct business,” Matt Fred, president of the Beach Haven Chamber of Commerce, told the council after summarizing a chamber survey of merchants. Vendors and organizers countered that juried artisan markets bring visitors and support local nonprofits.

The dispute centered on two main concerns. Brick-and-mortar retailers said frequent midweek markets in July and August can siphon sales that local shops rely on during peak season. Vendors said markets are a primary livelihood for artisans and a low-cost way for many to sell goods — especially for people who cannot afford a storefront. “This is my livelihood,” Mary Derer, who runs the Beach Haven Artisan Market, said, describing a small Friday-morning market that draws 10–14 local vendors and tourists.

Public safety and park preservation emerged as a second flash point. Parks and Recreation committee member Sally Pete cited a 2023 parks survey and warned that repeated vehicle parking on Veterans Park could “crush the grass,” create dead patches and increase sediment runoff into storm drains. Event promoters acknowledged parking is a problem but said vendors often must have vehicle access to load and unload. “I’m more than willing to help with the parking,” Pam, a longtime show promoter, said, noting many of her events are juried and have run for years as fundraisers for local organizations.

Council members said they favor a middle ground. Options discussed included reducing the total number of large markets during July and August, prioritizing juried artisan events, prohibiting vendor parking on the turf for most events, requiring a bond or security deposit to cover sod or sprinkler damage, and exploring alternative locations such as Taylor Avenue. Contractors who consulted with the borough told council members that the new industrial sod and irrigation can tolerate limited use but that heavy vehicles after rain will cause lasting damage.

No ordinance or formal resolution was adopted at the meeting. Council members said staff will draft a policy that balances the economic benefits of events with protections for existing businesses and the borough’s recent park investment; applicants will be notified once the council reaches a decision. Mayor Lambert said the council will continue to work with vendors, businesses and committee members to find a “win‑win” solution.

The council also reminded applicants that the borough’s event application includes a stipulation making organizers financially responsible for any damage. A staff representative said the standard fee for field events is $150, with additional charges for services and an option (previously used) to require a refundable park bond.

The council ended the meeting without taking a final vote on event limits; members said they will return with proposed rules and communicate decisions to event applicants.