Michigan City officials address noise complaints linked to short-term rental properties

Concerns over the rise of short-term rentals, particularly Airbnb properties, dominated the Michigan City Common Council Workshop on June 10, 2025. Council members and residents expressed frustration over the management of these properties, highlighting issues such as noise complaints and the lack of accountability from property management companies.

A key discussion point was the increasing number of short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods, with one council member noting a recent listing that could accommodate 14 guests. This raised alarms about potential disturbances and the impact on community dynamics. Residents urged the city to take proactive measures to prevent properties from being marketed solely for profit, suggesting that the city could engage with realtors to promote more suitable buyers for these homes.

The council also revisited the city's noise ordinance, which prohibits noise levels exceeding 60 decibels in residential areas. A decibel meter purchased by the city was discussed as a tool for enforcing this ordinance. However, concerns were raised about the practicality of issuing citations based on measurements taken by residents, with police discretion playing a significant role in enforcement.

Residents called for a more coordinated approach to address complaints about specific properties, particularly those linked to a single management company. The need for better communication between city departments was emphasized, with suggestions to compile historical data on properties with frequent complaints to streamline enforcement actions.

As the meeting concluded, council members acknowledged the challenges posed by short-term rentals and the necessity for a unified strategy to manage their impact on the community. The discussions underscored a growing urgency for the city to address these issues effectively, ensuring that the interests of residents are prioritized amidst the rising trend of short-term rentals.