DEWEY BEACH, DE - Dewey Beach Town Council is contemplating significant changes to parking fees, considering an extension of the paid parking season, more days, and increased hourly rates in response to rising inflation costs.
With no property tax in Dewey Beach, Town Commissioner Paul Bauer says the town heavily relies on alternative revenue sources. He says nearly 25% of their income comes from parking fees, but the current system is relatively lax, allowing free parking on Monday through Wednesday nights.
“When you don’t have a property tax you don’t have a lot of money laying around – it’s all about living within your means, we’re pretty frugal with everything and we want to keep it that way.” said Bauer.
Ideas include extending the paid parking season to May 1st to September 30th, no more free parking on weeknights, and the hourly parking fee increasing from $3 to $4.
Bauer says the additional revenue generated is intended to fund new hires, and retain employees, including three officers and two K9 officers, with the goal of enhancing safety and security in the town.
“We want everyone to know when you come to Dewey Beach that you’re gonna be safe, but you have to at least pay for parking.” said Bauer.
However, there are concerns within the town about expanding these fees. Drew DiFanso from the Hyatt Hotel in Dewey mentions that free parking is a significant draw for events and a key factor for businesses. He believes that charging for parking could potentially negatively impact local businesses
“The business that we bring in in early May and late September, benefits all the businesses in town, and also benefits the town of Dewey beach, because they get lodging tax from us.”
The Council voted to send the proposed ideas to the Budget and Finance Committee to review, discuss, and possibly vote to refer back for a vote ideally at November or Decembers town council meeting. If approved, the changes would not take affect until next summer season.
