ST. AUGUSTINE, FL — St. Augustine is once again debating the future of horse-drawn carriages, because few cities can turn transportation policy into a full-blown identity crisis quite like America’s oldest city.

The St. Augustine City Commission held a workshop Friday on proposed changes to the city’s Vehicles for Hire and Franchise Ordinances, with horse carriages becoming one of the central issues. Residents raised concerns about what the future of the carriage industry should look like in a city built on history, tourism, narrow streets, and the occasional moral argument with a trolley.

The proposed ordinance updates include changes related to horse carriage operations, with a focus on animal health and welfare, enforcement, and penalties for violations.

Supporters often see the carriages as part of St. Augustine’s charm and historic tourism experience. Critics see them as outdated, uncomfortable, and overdue for a serious review.

Which is how a city famous for preserving the past now finds itself asking whether every tradition deserves a permit, a route map, and a horse.

At publishing time, the horses had not issued a statement, though several appeared to be considering a career change into air-conditioned tour buses.