At what point do Margate homeowners and Real Estate executives taxpayers say ‘enough is enough’? Over the years, it’s tough for towns like Margate to ignore big tax dollars and valuations that come from million dollar shore homes and new construction.
Like many Jersey shore towns, Margate enjoyed the benefits of a massive run-up of residential properties.
Audio Clips. Margate Planning Board, Miniature Golf Vote. Dec. 14, 2017
Along the way to Real Estate riches, Margate lost many attractions and amenities like bowling alleys, arcades, night clubs, bars, movie theaters, mini-golf and marinas. In their place, came what’s known as high value ‘ratables’; rich property tax assessments derived from part-time residents. As an added bonus, these 2nd homeowners are not heavy users of city services like public schools. Better yet (to some), this group of taxpayers can’t vote and exert influence on elected leaders.
Margate grapples with escalating home values vs. attractions and amenities.
Accusations that the mini-golf issue was being decided quietly in the off-season were easily rebuffed. With the proliferation of trusted news & information sources like DownbeachBUZZ & ACprimetime, part time residents are more aware than ever of critical info concerning the summertime hometown. It’s been noted that over time, legal notices inside printed newspapers are growing more ineffective, even though they’re legally required.
The developer of ‘Congo Falls’ applied for 3 simple variance within the CBD, Central Business District. The Margate Planning Board voted YES, 9-0.
- Variance for business parking
- Fence height to create privacy
- Free standing sign
The Ocean City version of Congo Fall features large gorilla and other eye-popping scenery. Perfect for a Boardwalk. This will NOT be a part of the Margate implementation of Congo Falls by developer Benevento & his Adventure Golf company.
Miniature golf fits within the allowable retail services, inside CBD, Central Business District zone. Mini-golf is permitted use. Mini-golf amusement is not prohibited within CBD zone. Mini-golf has in the past, operated within the Margate CBD zone.
Local Margate developer, Steve Baglivo, feared his tenant (Breakfast Club) would leave town if new attractions like mini-golf were not permitted. “We need a new influx of people & traffic” said Baglivo, who recently acquired additional properties in the area: 9411, 9413, 9513 and 9417 Ventnor Ave.
Steve Warner, President of Margate Concerned Citizens Group loved the idea.
Yes, it is ADA compliant.
Yianni Galanos was PRO golf.
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