STATE OF RHODE ISLAND, COUNTY OF NEWPORT

The Town Council of the Town of Tiverton, County and State aforesaid held a Special Council Meeting on

Monday, August 30, 2021 at 7:00 PM at the Tiverton Town Hall, 343 Highland Road.

A. Town Solicitor - Discussion and possible vote on proposed new Tiverton Code of Ordinance
     regarding Short Term Rentals for council questions, concerns and any modifications and to forward
     to Planning Board for their review and recommendations     

Written public comments were received from five people and distributed to council members.

Council Vice President Burk opened discussion reminding that tonight was a workshop to gather feedback and no final decisions would be made tonight. He furthered that after a final draft version is complete, it would be sent to Planning for review and recommendations prior to a public hearing he expected to take place in October or November.

Solicitor Marcello explained that as short term rentals (STR) were a use not currently permitted by the town in any zone, he had been asked by Council to draft a short term rental ordinance to provide some oversight and regulation. He added that after looking at other towns and methods of regulation, amending the zoning code was determined to be the best approach. He explained in detail each of the ordinances’ components.

Among the proposals, a special use permit would be required for any STR rented out for 28 consecutive calendar days or less, at least once a year. They would not be allowed in the highway commercial, industrial and open space/conservation zones. Another stipulation required the owner of a STR to occupy the same unit, or at least the same parcel, at least 260 days per year.  An annual registration fee of $100 would be required for a special use permit application and the property subject to inspection.

At least 14 persons spoke at the meeting, most of whom were STR owners concerned about the proposed regulation regarding owner occupancy, income disclosure, rental data reporting requirements and cumbersome yearly special use permit process. Additional comments included sufficient parking availability, renters provided with rules (no parties allowed), close communications with neighbors, owner responsibility for septic/sewer & trash. Some speakers noted current ordinances protect against nuisances and some wanted the number of actual issues quantified that have occurred. Speakers explained the rental service process, answered council questions regarding online service providers (Airbnb and Vrbo), and highlighted the many benefits for local businesses in Tiverton and the surrounding area. Speakers were looking for Council to support short-term rentals.

Police Chief Jones recounted incidents over the July 4^th holiday with one location and emphasized need for an active contact person. Fire Chief Reimels commented on State Fire Code and no jurisdiction on a residence.

Council thanked the speakers at the conclusion of the discussion, with several commenting on a productive workshop with valuable feedback. Councilor Burk noted that an updated draft ordinance would be placed on the 9/27/2021 meeting agenda. 

B. Discussion and vote to approve National Grid Pole Petition – 3 Rod Way (Fogland Beach)

Councilor Vieira motioned to approve the aforementioned National Grid Pole Petition. Seconded by Councilor Cook, the motion passed unanimously.