Board schedules workshop to set new mission for Lodging Facility Advisory Committee

The Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to hold a workshop to define a new mission for the Lodging Facility Advisory Committee after staff reports that the committee has completed its 2022–23 tasks.

Town staff summarized the committee’s work, including multiple rounds of review of lodging license applications, updates to application forms, language developed for possible changes to chapter 150 (lodging licensing) and consideration of inspection requirements and fee structures. Staff said changes to licensing language (chapter 150) do not require voter approval but that changes to land-use chapters (chapter 145) would need to go to town meeting.

Committee members and selectmen discussed deferring certain items, such as inspection program development and fee analysis, until the town completes its short-term rental ordinance work. One selectman said committee members have valuable operational experience and would be “invaluable” in shaping short-term rental policies and fee proposals. The board approved a motion to hold a workshop to craft a new mission and next steps; the motion passed 5–0.

A board member also suggested the committee study transportation options from the train station to lodging facilities along Route 1 and into the Agunka corridor; York County Community Action and a partner (named in the meeting as NEPA) had indicated funding would cover 50% of a seasonal shuttle pilot running Memorial Day through Labor Day.

The selectmen directed staff to place the workshop on a future agenda and to coordinate with the lodging committee and budget committee for fee and staffing discussions.