Piermont May Allow Small Inns, B&Bs

Piermont's pier and quaint shopping district never fail to attract visitors in the warmer months, but it's generally for daytrips.

That may soon change, however—village lawmakers are looking into permitting inns and bed and breakfasts to set up shop and accommodate overnight guests.

"We have a lot of tourists in the summertime, and it might be helpful to our businesses to consider options for overnight stay," said Christopher Sanders, Piermont's mayor. "It's always surprised me, not having provisions for B&Bs and small inns."

Sanders added that by allowing visitors to stay and extra day or two, local merchants could see a considerable boost to their bottom line.

Walter Sevastian, the village's attorney, said Piermont's code could be updated to allow for it. In municipalities similar to Piermont, he said, the local government can mandate the number of rooms allowed and how long people can stay.

"Parking is certainly a requirement," Sevastian added.

Other trustees echoed Sander's support.

"I think it's a great idea," said Audie Moran. "It came before the board about 10 years ago, but some residents came kicking and screaming, so it got pushed aside."

Bob Samuels—a Piermont resident—recalled why. "People who were against it were the people closest to [the proposed inn]," he said.

Moran noted certain requirement would have to be met, too, for the idea to pass legal muster—breakfast could be the only meal served, each room would need a smoke alarm and the owner would have to live on the premises during rental season.

Fred Devan, another Piermont resident, expressed guarded support.

"I'm for it," he said. "But how many we should allow, that's the question."

Other residents noted allowing current homeowners to open their homes as small B&Bs would allow them to supplement their income and make ends meet.

"I'd like to talk about this more," Sanders finished, noting village officials will draft a document for the planning board to study.