On July 1, 2025 the Washington County Planning Agency reviewed a proposed amendment to Village of Fort Edward local law chapter 350 that would redefine a hotel and impose limits on lengths of stay (referenced in the discussion as 14 consecutive nights or 30 nights in any year). Agency members raised concerns about how the limits would affect county social‑service placements, enforcement practicality and business impacts.

Staff and board members observed that New York State generally treats a stay longer than 30 days as long‑term, and that tracking whether a particular occupant has stayed 30 nights “in any year” could be difficult for a small hotel or short‑term rental. Board members said the draft could constrain where county agencies place clients who need temporary housing and could force service providers to move residents more frequently.

Given those concerns, a Planning Agency member moved to disapprove the draft in concept because of potential significant impacts to county services; the motion carried by voice vote. Members said the disapproval should be supported by substantial findings explaining how county services would be affected, and asked staff to prepare more detailed rationale if the agency forwards a negative recommendation to the village.

The county recommendation is advisory; the Village of Fort Edward may still adopt the draft locally. Agency members said their preference is to see clearer definitions and statutory alignment so that the village’s regulation does not unintentionally shift burdens onto county agencies.