Asharoken proposes stiff permit fee hikes
Asharoken Beach. (April 15, 2009) Credit: James Carbone
The Asharoken board of trustees plans large fee increases – some would more than double – for five village permits and services. The village is also establishing a solar panel fee.
Village Mayor Patricia Irvin said current fees were so outdated that the village was losing money on most zoning board hearings and permits.
A certificate of occupancy will increase to $50, up from $25, and a letter in lieu (issued instead of the occupancy certificate) to $75 from $50.
Also, a water ski permit will rise from $65 to $70; a demolition permit from $250 to $300; and a zoning board of appeals application from $250 to $550. The solar panel fee, which will be based on the value of the project, will match the building permit fee.
Irving said the fees have remained the same for 25 years, and the board of trustees realized that things like hiring a stenographer at zoning board hearings was costing them more than the revenue they were getting from the application fee.
The board will hold a public hearing on the resolution to increase the fees at its next meeting, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at Village Hall. Irving said depending on the public’s response, the board could decide to vote on the issue then or postpone it.
Village Hall is at 1 Asharoken Ave., Asharoken.
