An update on short-term rental units in the Town of Essex will be making its way to council Monday night.
Council will be presented with a report with an update on STRU licenses issued to-date, by-law enforcement matters, as well as to discuss current proposed zoning by-law regulations.
Administration is also looking for council approval to host a Public Meeting to present proposed zoning by-law amendments to allow new short-term rental units throughout McGregor, Pleasant Valley, and Colchester Hamlet.
Currently there are approximately 80 licensed short-term rental units in Essex.
A STRU is a dwelling or dwelling unit used, with or without on-site supervision, for rental accommodation for a period of 28 consecutive days or less, within the calendar year, but may be rented for a longer period.
Essex mayor, Sherry Bondy, says there needs to be more focus on permanent and affordable housing.
She says public consultation on this topic is important.
Bondy says public feedback is important on this topic, and it’s crucial to see if those in the community are in favour of more short-term rental units in the Town of Essex.
The new bylaw went into effect September 1, 2022 to allow short-term rentals in residential districts, but only if a unit was established and in operation on or before May 9, 2022.