Westhampton Beach Considers Opening Beaches to the General Public

Not a Westhampton Beach resident, but you'd like to enjoy a day in the sun at one of the village's beaches? A new plan may allow you gain access to either Rogers or Lashley beach.

On Wednesday night, the village said it is considering allowing non-residents to pay a fee to day-trip to its beaches in an effort to generate additional revenue for the village.

Under the proposal, according to Trustee Hank Tucker, non-residents would be able to pay $25 to access the beaches Monday through Thursday. Non-residents, however, would not be permitted to day-trip on Fridays, weekends or on holidays.

One resident and business owner, Elyse Richman, said she disagrees with the plan because weekdays are when locals enjoy peace at the beach.

“Don’t open it to the public,” she said.

Police Chief Ray Dean said setting aside only a few spots for day trippers might be a better plan.

“If you open it all up, you will fill that lot pretty quick,” he said.

It was also suggested that the $25 fee is too low and should be upward of $50 per car or even $25 per person.

Patch wants to know: Do you think day-trippers should be allowed to pay a fee to access Westhampton Village Beaches?