Hometown News and Views

By Judy Vik

 Lauderdale-By-The-Sea – In an effort to entice more divers  to explore the town’s underwater attractions,  commissioners agreed to grant 34 parking permits to divers for use on Datura Avenue, Hibiscus Avenue and Bougainvilla Drive.  Those with permits, which cost $30, will park for free 6 to 10 a.m. and 7 to 11 p.m. except on Friday evenings or Saturdays.

“These permits don’t guarantee parking,” Tony Bryan, finance director, explained. “If parking is available, they can get it. If not, they would pay for parking.”

Commissioner Stuart Dodd, an avid diver said, “If it will help encourage diving, I’m 100 percent in favor of it.”

Commissioner Chris Vincent, also a diver, said he favored the permits. He noted they need to be non-transferable and clear signage would be needed.

Staff had suggested 50 dive permits, but Vice Mayor Scot Sasser questioned the need for so many. He suggested the smaller number of permits and commissioners approved 34 for use between May and Oct. 31.

Steve Gagas of Gold Coast Scuba and John Boutin of the Windjammer Resort urged commissioners to approve the permits. “They will bring intangible good will and attention to LBTS,” Boutin said.