Short term rental proposal sparks zoning debate

In a recent government meeting, the board discussed a request from Martin Aguilar to operate a short-term rental at his property located at 8469 Saundersville Road. The property spans 5.2 acres and is zoned R-1 residential, which permits such use under specific conditions.

The proposal had been deferred from the previous month due to concerns regarding the business plan, which has since been revised. The updated plan outlines that the rental would accommodate a maximum of eight guests, based on the property’s four-bedroom configuration, adhering to the standard of two occupants per bedroom as dictated by state septic regulations.

Staff recommended approval of the request, noting that the property meets the zoning ordinance requirements, as it exceeds the minimum two-acre threshold for short-term rentals in the R-1 district. Additionally, the applicant must ensure that contact information is provided to local authorities, including the Williamson Emergency Management Agency (WEMA), the building inspector, and the county sheriff's office. The business plan also stipulates that a caretaker, located 2.5 miles from the property, will oversee the rental operations.

If approved, Aguilar will be required to return to the board for any future expansions or structural changes to the property. The board's decision on this matter is anticipated in the coming weeks.