Lakewood council defers short-term rental ordinance after initial meetings with operators

Council members on Sept. 2 moved to defer a proposed ordinance that would add short-term rental regulations to the Lakewood Codified Ordinances, saying the draft is a placeholder and further stakeholder outreach and committee review are needed.

Councilman Bullock, one of the sponsors, told colleagues the draft had been informed by meetings with property owners who operate through short-term rental platforms and by discussions with administration leadership. Bullock said he did not expect the draft to be the final version and that the ordinance should "percolate" while the council continues research and stakeholder engagement.

The motion to defer was made and seconded and was approved by voice vote. Council members indicated the ordinance had already been referred to committee and that the committee chair would set hearings when ready.

Public comment during the meeting included a local short-term rental operator, Billy Franamo, who introduced himself as owner of House Hotels and said he has operated short-term rentals for roughly 12 years and that short-term rentals bring visitors and spending to local businesses. Franamo offered to meet with council members and share industry experience.

Council members and staff said they plan further outreach to both operators and neighbors before returning the ordinance for a committee hearing or reading. No regulatory text was adopted at the Sept. 2 meeting.

Ending: Council members urged continued dialogue and said they would hold committee hearings before any final vote on short-term rental regulations.