NEW BUFFALO, MICH. (WBBM NEWSRADIO)--The City Council in New Buffalo, Michigan has scheduled a town hall meeting next week after narrowing down an ordinance regulating short-term rentals.
The council has decided to freeze new short-term rentals in three areas that are largely residential but plans to allow them elsewhere. About a dozen residents and property owners spoke at the most recent meeting held Tuesday night on the contentious issue, which has been going on for two years with most in support of short-term rentals.
Laura Murray, a Downers Grove resident who has a second home in New Buffalo, was critical of the mayor, John Humphrey, who opposes short-term rentals, and was escorted out of the meeting by a police officer.
“I’m asking on behalf of the residents of New Buffalo that both of these resolutions be voted down,” Murray said in her remarks as reported by Crain's Chicago Business.
“I ask that the board take the advice of the Planning Commission and come up with alternatives that will be more equitable to both the long-term residents and the property owners who choose to rent their property out on a short-term basis.”
Residents have asked for more information about the economic impact of short-term rentals and complaints. The city plans to compile all the relevant research and data and provide it to residents at a town hall meeting on Oct. 12.
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