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Staff reports fewer hotel-related nonemergency calls after enforcement and ordinance changes
Summary
Staff told the DDA that calls to the nonemergency line related to hotel issues have declined, and businesses report improved conditions after adoption of a hotel ordinance and increased enforcement coordination with Kent County. Staff said they will continue monitoring and engage hotels in renewal and compliance work.
Staff reported to the DDA that hotels and nearby businesses have shown improved compliance with a recently enacted hotel ordinance and that nonemergency calls related to hotel incidents have declined. Staff credited persistent enforcement work and coordination with Kent County for the improvement and said many hotels that were previously problematic have since made investments to comply with licensing and safety standards.
Board members noted the reduction in calls and said the change has improved business confidence about remaining in the village area. Staff said most hotels ultimately obtained required licenses and that a small number of operators required extended engagement to reach compliance. Staff also said they are preparing to work with the hotels on the renewal process for the next year and will invite the county or sheriff’s office to present a year-over-year crime and incident summary to the DDA at an upcoming meeting.
The DDA praised staff and Kent County for enforcement efforts and asked staff to continue reporting metrics that show enforcement outcomes and business impacts.
