Summary
Magistrates completed first readings on two related ordinances: revisions to the county room tax and a new short‑term rental permit ordinance that move permitting to the tourism commission/administrator, add campgrounds to lodging definitions, change reporting from monthly to quarterly and allow the Henry County Judge Executive’s office to retain
The Henry County Fiscal Court completed first readings Tuesday on two linked ordinances that revise the county’s transient room tax and establish a new short‑term rental permitting and licensing framework. Changes to the room tax ordinance include expanding covered businesses to campgrounds and campsites, changing reporting and remittance from monthly to quarterly, and directing that room tax receipts be held in a separate fund. The court also approved language authorizing the Henry County Judge Executive’s office to retain 20% of total gross revenue collected for application and permitting processes for the tourism commission. The second ordinance establishes a short‑term rental permit and licensing process. Key changes in the draft move responsibility for permit issuance, complaints and appeals from planning and development or the board of adjustments to the tourism commission or tourism administrator. The new language adds a nonconforming‑use exemption for existing operators, makes such permits nontransferable, and allows the tourism administrator to receive complaints and to revoke permits; fines for violations were proposed not to exceed $500. Court members said the changes are intended to simplify the process for operators such as bed‑and‑breakfasts and short‑term rentals so that, if an applicant meets a checklist administered by the tourism administrator, they need not go before planning and zoning or the board of adjustments. Magistrates approved first readings by voice vote and the ordinances will require a second reading before final adoption. During public comment, a resident asked whether the tourism administrator position is paid. The court responded that the administrator will remain employed by the county and that the 20% administrative fee will help cover that cost.
