FORT PIERCE — Commissioner Eddie Becht likely would be the first to benefit from a zoning change the city is considering to allow bed-and-breakfasts and vacation rentals downtown to boost tourism and increase foot traffic to businesses in the area.
Becht wants to rent the house at 219 N. Second St. he and wife Colleen bought in April — basically a “bed” without the “breakfast” in hopes his guests would eat at downtown restaurants.
“I believe that the overnight visitors are essential to our downtown’s long-term health,” Becht said. “To the fullest extent possible, we intend to complement the local businesses, not compete with them.”
Some downtown leaders said allowing overnight stays that don’t fall under the current “hotel” or “motel” definitions would benefit the entire city.
