Village To Boost Summer Rental Awareness; Raise Permit Fees

Under the belief that there are a number of residents who rent their homes over the summer without obtaining permits, the Village of Westhampton Beach has vowed to boost its educational efforts in the name of compliance. Officials also plan to increase the fees for rental permits.

According to Rebecca Molinaro, the village clerk, last year the village handed out 79 summer rental permits at $100 each. Trustee Hank Tucker said that the number is high considering that the Town of Southampton gave out just over 300 permits.

Trustee Patricia DiBenedetto, however, said that she believes there are people who are renting their property without permits. Trustee Sue Farrell agreed and suggested that the village look to send letters to all area real estate agents notifying them of the fees and permit process.

To obtain full compliance, trustees also agreed that an educational notice should be published on the village's website.

And while village officials kick-off the summer rental educational campaign, they agreed that fees should be raised from $100 a permit to $150 for those renting for 30 days or less and $250 for those renting over 30 days.

A public hearing is expected to be held on the fee increase at an upcoming village board meeting.

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