The study’s second phase will begin in November, Day said, and is expected to conclude in February with a focus on identifying potential solutions.
“We’re hoping that this study timeline will conclude with any kind of ordinance amendments before the expiration of that interim ban on May 14,” Day said. “That’s our goal.”
The details
The city is currently in the first phase of the study focusing on data collection, Day said, and working to verify data collected by a third-party with the Public Safety Communications system.
Council also appointed a short-term rental task force, which has met with Gap Strategies, a third-party outreach coordinator.
Day said the Short-Term Rental Task Force will reconvene after the open house concludes to review the data collected. Findings will be reported to council and the planning and zoning commission in October.
How we got here
According to a memo to council in June, citizen concerns about short-term rental properties arose from the rise in popularity of digital platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo the last year. More than 100 residents have stated concerns of health, safety and nuisance issues related to short-term rentals in public comments.
Council adopted an interim ban on new short-term rentals through May 15, 2024. Additionally, staff held an in-person open house Aug. 23 with a virtual option running through Aug. 30 asking for the community’s input on how council should govern short-term rental properties within the city.
Quote of note
“As we identify problems through this phase, then hopefully we can start working in the background on solutions,” Day said.
