Neighbors oppose short‑term rental at Desdemona Way; board approves Barnett Bungalows permit

The Fayette County Board of Adjustment voted to approve Barnett Bungalows’ conditional‑use permit for an unhosted short‑term rental at 4236 Desdemona Way, despite vocal neighborhood opposition focused on children’s safety and community character.

Planning staff presented parking evidence and mapping showing no STR within 600 feet and a concentration below 2% within a 1,000‑foot buffer, and recommended approval with four conditions including a maximum occupancy and required revenue and planning permits. Applicant Eric Barnett said he owned the house since 2005, has long experience managing rental properties, has local family and a friend to serve as emergency contacts and would maintain the dwelling and clean between guests.

Neighbors including Eli Wallace and Evelyn Wallace argued a short‑term rental would turn a family neighborhood into a transient location and raise safety concerns where many children play. Eli Wallace said the frequent turnover of occupants would reduce neighbor investment and raise uncertainty about who is present; Evelyn Wallace urged the board to reject the application to keep the neighborhood “a safe place to call home.”

Board members questioned how immediate issues would be handled when the owner lives out of state; staff and the applicant explained the required emergency contact and the license process through the Division of Revenue. After discussion, a motion to approve the Barnett Bungalows application was made, seconded and carried. The permit was approved with the conditions recommended by staff, including a cap on occupancy and requirements to obtain business and zoning licenses and to verify compliance with health‑department sewage requirements if applicable.

Next steps: the applicant must secure the listed permits and a short‑term rental special‑fee license from the Division of Revenue before operating, and maintain the local emergency contact required by the license conditions.