So long to sidewalk A.T.M.’s?
Last year, the City Council unanimously passed a bill banning sidewalk A.T.M.’s. The mayor delayed signing the bill, saying he didn’t want to be a “Grinch.” Apparently, the law may now be in effect. On Stanton St. on the Lower East Side this past week, sidewalk A.T.M. machines were hastily being removed. According to one bodega owner, the initial penalty is $300, with an additional $100 for every two days the machine is not removed. However, news reports last year said the fines — which are assessed against the landlords — were much steeper than that. Stores can still have A.T.M.’s that serve the outside, but they must be flush with the building’s window or wall. A mayoral spokesperson, called late on deadline night, was unable to confirm if the law was indeed now being enforced.