Short-term rentals back on BOC agenda Monday

CLEVELAND, Ga. – The issue of short-term rentals will be back before the White County Board of Commissioners when it holds a voting session Monday (Feb. 25) at 4:30 p.m. followed immediately by a called meeting.

Two weeks ago, commissioners directed staff to draft a stand-alone ordinance to regulate what has become a booming business nationwide. The issue is considerably more complex than what it seems on the surface.

On the one hand, those who would like to rent rooms in their home on a short-term basis argue they have a right to use their property as they see fit. On the other, some neighbors counter that kind of activity can affect security in the neighborhood as well as property values.

Nix advised staff to pay attention to health issues while drafting regulations. “You’ve got health issues when drafting criteria,” he said “Are (rentals) on public water? Are they on well water? Is the sewage system designed to handle what they are doing?”

There are also licensing issues, insurance issues, parking issues and zoning issues to be addressed.

Commissioners had to decide whether to regulate short-term rentals under the county’s land use plan or to draft a stand-alone ordinance. They voted unanimously for the stand-alone ordinance.

Also on Monday’s agenda, commissioners will discuss:

• A proclamation in recognition of Exceptional Children’s Week March 4-8;
• A request to improve Redd Road;
• Proposed revisions to the White County Code of Ordinances relative to Emergency Services;
• Proposed surplus resolutions for public safety and the road department;
• Bids received for resurfacing Westmoreland Road under the local maintenance improvement grant (LMIG);
• Bids received for Yonah Preserve Equipment (mower, tractor, bunker rake and utility vehicle);
• Proposed revisions to the alcohol ordinance;
• Approval of the March 4 regular meeting agenda.

 

 

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