City Council Revises Facility Rental Rates and Considers Short Term Rental Enforcement

The Sandpoint City Council held a special meeting on July 30, 2025, where several key decisions were made that will directly impact the community. One of the most significant changes discussed was the simplification of facility rental fees for nonprofit organizations. Previously, groups had to navigate a complex fee schedule based on individual room bookings. Now, nonprofits can book the entire facility at a flat rate, which remains unchanged from previous years. This change aims to streamline the process and encourage more community events.

In addition to the fee adjustments for nonprofits, the council also addressed rental rates for commercial use, which have doubled. This decision reflects the city’s effort to balance accessibility for community events while ensuring that for-profit activities contribute fairly to facility maintenance.

Another topic of discussion was the management of the City Beach RV park, which has seen low occupancy rates this season. Council members acknowledged the need to revisit pricing strategies after a significant investment in facility improvements is completed. The council is optimistic that these upgrades will enhance the park's appeal and increase visitor numbers.

The meeting also touched on short-term rental regulations, particularly concerning the waitlist for permits. Council members expressed concerns about the clarity of the language used in the waitlist process, which currently charges applicants only after they are removed from the list. Additionally, there was a proposal to increase penalties for violations of short-term rental regulations, as the current fine of $100 per day may not be a strong enough deterrent for non-compliance.

The council is actively working on enforcement measures, including issuing violation letters to short-term rental operators who do not have the necessary permits. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure compliance and protect neighborhood integrity.

Overall, the discussions from the meeting reflect the council's commitment to enhancing community facilities, ensuring fair use of public spaces, and addressing the challenges posed by short-term rentals. As these changes take effect, residents can expect a more streamlined process for facility use and a proactive approach to managing local rental properties.