Council signals enforcement upgrades, ordinance tweaks after heated STR testimony

Following extensive public comment, councilors described the current ordinance as a workable starting point that will require fine‑tuning to address enforcement shortfalls raised by neighbors.

Multiple council members urged improved code‑enforcement tools, including clearer complaint validation, on‑site authority for the code officer (badges or similar), noise‑level measuring equipment, and stronger on-the-ground follow-up for repeat violations. "We have to give our code enforcement officer more authority," said a councilor (speaker 14), who also proposed a badge and on-site reporting process to strengthen compliance.

The council discussed distance‑based limits (e.g., preventing new permits within a defined distance of existing STRs) and potential grandfathering for current permits. Members emphasized the legal and procedural steps required to amend the ordinance, including introduction, public notice, two readings and a public hearing. Staff was asked to return with legal advice, fiscal modeling, and enforcement options before the council considers formal amendments.