Councillor Hanna left the meeting.
Murray Kraemer addressed the Committee representing the Silver Lake property owners regarding an Airbnb being operating at 1582 Bruce Road 1. He explained that an Airbnb is a web based business to rent properties on a daily or short term basis where a property owner registers their property for rent. He stated that some communities have imposed regulations around Airbnb and similar websites.
He noted that bed and breakfast are a legitimate business, and the Township of Huron-Kinloss comprehensive zoning by-law has regulations for running bed and breakfasts. The property in question is being rented daily by someone not residing on the property without restrictions.
He noted opposition to the use under the comprehensive zoning AG3 zone as the operation of a legitimate bed and breakfast require the owner to reside in the dwelling.
He explained that the property does not have any commercial designation and doesn't to fit in the local single detached dwellings on Silver Lake. He said in the three weeks that it has been rented, there has been a minor act of trespass and one water rescue.
Mr. Kraemer noted that there was an OMB decision in 2013 on the property and that commercial enterprise operating at 1582 Bruce Road 1 does not fit, such enterprise needs stakeholder involvement, community and local municipality which none has happened. The property owners request that this Airbnb be stopped.
Council questioned if the other two units on the property are still a concern of the property owners of Silver Lake. Mr. Kraemer explained that that has been their largest objection for over 10 years , the property owners of Silver Lake put a package for Council two weeks ago with their objection, the Airbnb issue is new. In Mr. Kraemer's opinion the property is not in compliance.
Council noted that the Airbnb is a grey area; however the compliance for the other two they can stand behind. Inspection has been done and that is one step completed.
Council questioned if the property has been rented. Mr. Kraemer noted the two upper buildings were rented out in the past, following the OMB decision the rentals slowed then stopped, he noted that the current owner is not renting the upper two but are renting the lower building which in his opinion in contravention of the comprehensive zoning by-law.
Council commented that renting by day or short term may not be right; however long term rentals is not a concern and they do have concern's with the advertisement.