Rita Jabbour, Manager, Planning Services, explained that the purpose of the public meeting was for Council to consider the merits and concerns related to the proposed addition of new zoning by-law regulations relating to short term rentals.
Ms. Jabbour noted that the most common short term rental accommodation service is home-sharing however other structures such as a houseboat or a treehouse can be used as a unique alternative to tourist accommodations.
Ms. Jabbour explained that short-term rentals are not a second dwelling that increases the supply and range of affordable rental accommodations for long term independent living. She further explained that short term rentals are not currently recognized by the Town's Zoning By-Law 1037 but should be regulated to encourage growth, preserve the local communities and protect the supply of long-term accommodations.
Ms. Jabbour advised that public and stakeholder groups were consulted via Facebook, an online survey and a virtual open house. She explained that the Town received 203 survey responses and 28 people attended the open house with comments and concerns regarding short-term rentals. Stakeholders supported a business licence to regulate short term rentals and suggested that the number of short-term rentals be limited through licensing. She noted that impacted residents recommended a review of applicable by-laws and strong but minimal enforceable regulations.
Ms. Jabbour further advised that the next step is to create draft zoning recommendations, followed by a draft licensing by-law framework and finally a licensing by-law that would take effect in 2022.
Mayor Snively noted that he supports short term rentals if owners are on site and added that short term rentals will be difficult to regulate.
Councillor Verbeek asked if licenses could be revoked in the event that owners or operators were not in compliance with applicable by-laws.
Ms. Jabbour stated that there are licensing systems such as a demerit system and the Town will establish a system in which short term rental operators are penalized for any unruly behaviour.
Ms. Chadwick mentioned that the Town had viewed numerous examples of licensing by-laws and licensing systems and a by-law will be presented to Council for approval at a later date.
Councillor Verbeek asked if the licensing would include a fee that would cover the cost of administering the issuance of the licenses.
Ms. Chadwick stated that the municipality does not require compensation for administrative fees.
Deputy Mayor Meloche stated that he was not opposed to short term rentals but believes they need to be controlled. He also noted that temporary licenses would be ideal in the interim.
Ms. Chadwick stated that Administration could explore a temporary by-law however the use of land should be established first.
Deputy Mayor Meloche noted that the by-law should include provisions for the maintenance of the property.
Ms. Chadwick advised that the Property Standards By-Law includes such provisions.
Councillor Garon inquired whether a traditional cottage that was rented for a week would be classified as a short-term rental.
Ms. Jabbour explained that under that scenario a traditional cottage would be considered a short-term rental.
Councillor Vander Doelen stated that short term rentals may decrease our population, add to the housing crisis and affect the quality of life for the properties around the short-term rentals. He noted that he agrees we need regulations but does not believe over taxation would help especially since there are good operators.
Councillor Bondy suggested that a form be created on the Town's website to start collecting information for short term rental properties to determine best practices. She acknowledged that there is an issue with short-term rentals and that limited licenses would help.
Councillor Bowman stated that licenses and regulations are needed but there will be issues with saturation.
Ms. Chadwick suggested that Council email additional comments or concerns to the Planning Department.