Final hearing on carriage ordinance Monday

It has been over a year since Historic City News first reported that Assistant City Attorney Carlos Mendoza had begun fashioning the controversial horse-drawn carriage ordinance; however, unless further substantial revisions are made, it will be voted on Monday night.

When members of the St. Augustine City Commission convene their regular meeting, the proposed ordinance, that was compiled at the commission’s request and has undergone numerous tweaks, will go to public hearing and final action.

In addition to regulations in existing codes for drivers, stables, and animal care; new elements include a 4:30 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. “rest period” on business days and establish a limit of 30 non-transferable permits.

The permit fee will be $1,000 each or 2 1/2 percent of gross annual revenue under the franchise agreement.

In the proposed ordinance, drivers will be required to submit weekly reports on scheduled and previously unscheduled charter service.

The public will have the opportunity to comment on the proposed horse carriage ordinance.

ALSO ON THE AGENDA:

The hearing will be early in the meeting on an agenda which includes plans to extend the King Street utilities project, extend a design study contract to Halback Design Group for the bayfront, hear a report from Halback Design Group on the proposed Andrew Young Crossing marker, and confirming two appointments to the Historic Architectural Review Board.

If you are planning to attend, the regularly scheduled St. Augustine City Commission meeting will begin at 5:00 p.m. Monday and will be held in the Alcazar Room; on the first floor of City Hall, located at 75 King Street in St. Augustine.

Photo credits: © 2011 Historic City News staff photographer