By DONALD WITTKOWSKI
Before you load up the SUV with the kids, the dog and all of the beach gear for your vacation at the shore, you might want to think about reducing some of the clutter.
No, we’re not suggesting that you should leave the kids or the dog at home.
But who wants to go through the hassle of lugging all of those chairs, umbrellas and inflatable rafts through the thick beach sand while you’re looking for a coveted spot near the water?
So if you happen to forget something or simply choose to leave it at home, those summer necessities will be available for Sea Isle City’s beachgoers to rent as part of concession agreements for the 2020 and 2021 summer seasons.
At its meeting Tuesday, City Council awarded a two-year concession contract to Oil Depot NJ LLC, of Haddonfield, to rent out chairs, umbrellas, rafts and floats in three different areas of the beachfront: Between 29th and 44th streets, between 45th and 70th streets and between 71st and 89th streets.
As part of its contract with the city, Oil Depot will have to follow safety and health protocols while making “every reasonable effort” to protect customers from the spread of COVID-19, according to a city resolution.
“Oil Depot NJ, LLC understands that they are solely responsible for securing and safeguarding their equipment and merchandise. This includes, but is not limited to, thoroughly sanitizing the items being rented as well as all work surfaces and work accessories after each contact with a member of the general public,” the resolution says.
Kathy and Brian Maguire, of Sea Isle, buy some ice cream from Fudgy Wudgy vendors Max Schmader and Ryan McNesby in 2019.
Along its beachfront, Sea Isle has a series of vendors to rent out such things as umbrellas, chairs, rafts, kayaks, paddleboards and boogie boards. It also has a vendor for ice cream sales.
The ubiquitous “Fudgy Wudgy Man” ice cream carts being pushed along Sea Isle’s beaches on oversized wheels are a source of excitement for children and adults alike.
“The sale of ice cream on the beach is loved by the beachgoers and is convenient for them, especially ones with families,” City Clerk Shannon Romano said.
Sea Isle’s two-year ice cream concession contract will go out to bid prior to the 2021 summer season. The city’s current ice cream vendor is Southwind Ice Cream LLC, Romano said.
