Photo by B. Shakyaver
A local property owner approached Bluewater Council on Monday (November 20) to voice his concerns over the municipality’s short-term rental (STR) bylaw.
Since its enactment on June 19th, the bylaw has been a source of contention, undergoing multiple rounds of modifications and additions.
Tyler Bartelen, a realtor and STR owner, appealed for the removal of “location limits” embedded in the bylaw. These limits prevent an applicant from obtaining an STR license if their property is on a street with 15% or more residences already having licenses or if their property abuts another with an existing license.
Bartelen argued that the location limits create an unfair system, restricting one individual from renting short-term when a neighbor can. He emphasized the importance of equal opportunity for all property owners and questioned the feasibility of enforcing such limits.
He also pointed to the demonization of short term rental owners, in the community, and attempted to request the removal of Councilor Bill Whetstone from the conversation – a sentiment which Mayor Paul Klopp shut down immediately.
Opposition to Bartelen’s plea came from Don Schatheitlin, the President of the Bayfield Rate Payers Association.
He also pointed to the contributions of voluteers to the wellbeing of the community, and argued that the increase of absentee landlords didn’t contribute to the volunteer base.
Housing Minister Sean Fraser also said in a statement on Monday that short term rentals were contributing to the growing housing crisis, and could account for tens of thousands of homes that are not available – a sentiment which Schatheitlin echoed.
Councilor Whetstone pointed to the decision that council had made upon enacting the bylaw, that they would review the policy and integrate feedback after it had been in place for a year.
He suggested that the presentations and information be filed, and brought back for discussion at that time.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
