Carmel Mayor's Advisory Commission reviews new rental ordinance and housing task force recommendations

The Mayor's Advisory Commission on Housing convened on July 10, 2025, to discuss critical housing issues affecting the Carmel community. The meeting, which began with the approval of previous minutes, highlighted several key topics that aim to address local housing needs and regulations.

One of the primary discussions centered around a new rental ordinance passed by the city council on June 3. This ordinance mandates that residential unit owners must register with the Department of Community Services by December 31, 2025, to obtain "legacy dwelling" status. While the registration process is still being developed, officials assured residents that ample time will be provided before the deadline. Notably, short-term rentals are currently exempt from this requirement, and the ordinance applies only to single-family homes and townhouses, leaving multifamily units and rental communities unaffected.

The commission also emphasized the importance of homeowners' association (HOA) restrictions, clarifying that these will remain in place and can be more stringent than city regulations. This aspect is crucial for residents who may be concerned about how new policies could impact their neighborhoods.

In addition to the rental ordinance, the commission reviewed recommendations from the housing task force report. A significant focus was placed on assessing current zoning regulations to identify potential gaps in the housing market. The commission plans to create and publish maps detailing various property types in Carmel, which will aid in understanding the community's housing landscape.

Adrienne Keeling from the Department of Community Services provided updates on the commission's meeting schedule, noting that future meetings will generally occur every other month, with the next one set for September 25. This regularity aims to keep the community informed and engaged in ongoing housing discussions.

As Carmel continues to navigate its housing challenges, the outcomes of this meeting reflect a commitment to transparency and responsiveness to community needs. The commission's efforts to assess zoning regulations and enhance communication through public resources are steps toward fostering a more inclusive and well-planned housing environment for all residents.