Brigantine COVID-19 Update. Rentals, 4×4 Beach Permits & Free Golf.

Here’s the latest news on how Brigantine City Hall is handling the COVID-19 chaos. It’s not pretty.

Rather, Brigantine public relations is confusing. Contradictory. Un-fair. Stupid. Even dangerous.

As of April 27, the following Brigantine areas are still closed for public use:

• Cove Beach Inlet Area.
• Brigantine Sea Wall.
• Northend Observation Tower.
• Playgrounds and Parks.

But, the front beaches and inlet jetty are both still open in Brigantine.

Links at Brigantine Golf Still Open. Play a Round for Free?

During the April 15 Council meeting, Brigantine Mayor Andy Simpson effectively said the Links at Brigantine Golf course is still open at no charge. So, I guess we can all feel free to visit Brigantine and play a round of golf, for free. Gee, thanks Mayor.

WATCH VIDEO >

Not one person attending that April 15 Brigantine Council meeting questioned Mayor Simpson’s flagrant disregard of current law designed to reduce the spread of COVID-19. They were either too scared or too stupid to question Brigantine’s version of Joe Biden.

City of Brigantine has ignored NJ Governor’s order to close Links golf course.

Concerned Citizens of Brigantine

Brigantine 4×4 Beach Permits for 2020 Season.

City of Brigantine says: Until such time that the beach fee services are restored, all 2019 4×4 permits are valid for the 2020 season. Once we have a date for re-opening, we’ll provide ample notice and time to obtain a 2020 permit.

Note: At this time, City Hall is NOT allowing people to purchase 2020 pass at preseason rate of $200. May 1 is when that massive price increase takes place. Once Brigantine City Hall is back open, you’ll likely be charged the NEW rate of $300 for a 4×4 beach permit.

Yes, this ruling unfairly affects 2nd homeowners.

City of Brigantine posted this on social media: A decision on extending the discounted rates will be made when we know when we are re-opening. Thank you and stay safe and stay home. ( editor’s note: unless you want to golf for free or use our beautiful beaches )

Note: Brigantine beaches can only hold 700, 4×4’s at any one time. City Hall sells approx 6,000 permits per year, an ill-advised plan that was pushed by Councilman Vince Sera.

4×4 Brigantine beach access is first come, first served. Better get there early. I mean REALLY early.

JJ: Let’s see how long this lasts… until everyone “flocks” down here because they’re bored, acts like idiots, and then it’s ruined for everyone. It’ll be a 4th of July repeat. Bad decision. Shame on them. Should’ve just honored 2020 passes and kept it at that. Hope those that purchased 2020 passes get extended time to use them.

Still, Plenty of Short-Term Rental Confusion in Brigantine

WATCH VIDEO: Brigantine Bans Short Term Rentals by AirBnB

MP on Short Term Rental Ban: Up until what date is this effective at the moment? I understand it is not known exactly when the ban will be lifted, but, at this time, I need to call my guests who did not already cancel to let them know they can not come to their scheduled vacation rental. Should I cancel through end of May? Any guideline on how long we know for sure this will be in effect will be very helpful.

Island of Brigantine says ‘Please contact Jack Murray, our Fire Official, at 609-266-3102 for more information.’

MP: I did, several times. Left a message. I understand everyone is busy, that is why clear information from the beginning is key to avoiding a number of follow up phone calls. The message I received from VRBO states “effective immediately, the rental of any property (be it seasonal, transient and/or short-term) within the City of Brigantine is prohibited.”, without any dates listed. The message I received from AirBnB states “All seasonal, transient, and/or short-term rentals (stays that are 175 nights or shorter) must cease taking new reservations from April 17, 2020 – June 1, 2020. ” Can you confirm here I need to cancel everything up until June 1st at this time?

JG: Huge government overreach. Worst part: they tried to allow local realtors to still short-term rent at first showing. Absolutely nothing to do with safety. This is going to crush local business. Create a ton of foreclosures and tax defaults. Such a shame. Very short sighted.

Mike A: I look forward to my local tax breaks since they’re taking away our income.