The South Haven City Council heard an earful last night about proposed updates to its short-term rental regulations.
During Monday’s regular city council meeting, a public hearing was held to take comments on the new proposal. Residents spoke largely against what they see as too many restrictions.
Roxanne Leder of Decadent Dogs spoke against the new rules and in favor of keeping a welcoming environment for Short Term Rentals.
“I will say that this city re-embraced tourism as something that they could count on to build this community,” Leder said.
Ashley Greer, owner of Lake Michigan Linen Services said STR owners will be harmed by the changes, and if approved, many current STRs would be written out by the new ordinance.
“I understand that some people are concerned about congestion, restaurant availability, but imposing these drastic restrictions, you are not just reducing the number of visitors, you are jeopardizing businesses, eliminating jobs, and stripping South Haven of its vibrancy,” Greer said.
After hearing the public testimony, the council postponed their vote on the new ordinance so they could take additional time to consider what they heard. As drafted, the updated ordinance proposal sets occupancy limits, creates zoning restrictions, and requires existing short-term rentals to comply with the new rules within 180 days after adoption.
The city postponed further consideration of the ordinance until the March 17 meeting.
