Rideau Lakes council has directed staff to investigate how many local Airbnb’s, VRBO’s, and year-round rental units exist in the township before determining next steps.
It’s not exactly what Councillor Sue Dunfield is calling for, which is developing a licensing system they must comply with.
She says it’s necessary to handle with noise and environmental complaints she’s received, disputing Mayor Arie Hoogenboom’s opinion it’s not a significant concern.
Hoogenboom contends that a licensing program is a stretch.
In its report to council, staff said there’s enough existing resources to address the few complaints as they come through without the need of a licensing program.
CAO Shellee Fournier said the most staff can do is browse the rental websites for local listings, but there’s no way staff can provide a fully accurate total with the units that are offered privately.
Story by Grant Deme