Ventnor To Update Rules As Lively Events & Concerts Grow

The VENTNOR recreation board is dealing with a GOOD problem. Events, concerts and other special gatherings in Ventnor are multiplying and attracting bigger crowds.

Does the city need a refresh of rules, regulations and process? Yes. And that’s a good thing. 

On Feb. 7, the REC board OK’ed another April Fools Marathon Run on the boardwalk and the Summer Fest by Ventnor Chabad at the Shore.

Early discussions have started on bringing a food truck festival to ‘Ski Beach’ at the bay end of Dorset Ave. The Viking Rowing Club has suggested doing a regatta there too.

Ventnor party poopers fear noise, traffic and other potential disturbances?

A so-called “Porch Fest,” music and arts festival set is planned for Sunday, June 11. Thirty homes could host porch front performances through-out the city. It’s unknown what type of music will be played, and at what volume. Homeowners hosting these shows will have to get approval from adjacent property owners.  

Parking could be a problem, so Jitney service will be available. Some structures not sturdy enough? These porches may not hold the weight of band members and equipment. Ventnor building inspectors may need to be brought in to ensure safety and avoid a porch collapse.

‘Porchfest’ participants will need to sign paperwork that holds harmless the City of Ventnor.

Last Summer, live concerts were held every Wednesday night behind the Ventnor Library, just off the Boardwalk. This year, the concerts will be moved to Sunday night where smaller crowds would be likely as many 2nd homeowners head back to their primary residence.

After complaints of high volume rock bands, a better screening process is being deployed to ensure proper sound levels in this close-knit family neighborhood.

Ventnor Concert Neighbor Complaints:  loud music, heavy parking, late performances.

The Downbeach Current Newspaper reports that  increased Ventnor police presence was requested. Neighbors and parents want to prevent drinking and the smoking of “other things” in that public, usually family-friendly space. 

Barbecue smoke wafting into adjacent home windows was also brought up. Plans are to move the Hamburger & Hotdog station to a different spot.