Atlantique's only concession stand gets repairs

The only concession stand in Atlantique will be getting much-needed repairs thanks to a deal struck by the Town of Islip and the man renting the stand.

As part of the agreement unanimously approved by the Islip Town board Tuesday, Gavin Melton, the concessionaire, will pay for about $60,000 worth of repairs and upgrades to the stand in exchange for the town’s forgiving his rent for three years, a credit of $18,300, officials said.

Melton also received a 10-year lease with two optional five-year extensions. Under the lease, after three years of paying no rent, Melton will pay $6,000 a year plus $150 each year and 3 percent of the gross revenues (minus sales tax).

His old lease was set to expire in December 2012.

“It’s a good thing for us,” said Greg Dawson, Islip’s Parks Commissioner. “The people at Atlantique are appreciative of the services.”

The stand has been deteriorating for more than 15 years and needs new siding, new windows and roof repairs, Dawson said.

Melton, a year-round Atlantique resident who has been operating the stand for nine years, said he is pleased with the deal. He sees the repairs as an investment in a business he plans to continue.

“I love the place,” Melton said. “It’s really been a lot of fun for me.”