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Council adopts short‑term rental rules after split vote over 300‑foot spacing
Summary
After hours of debate and public comment, New Franklin City Council adopted Ordinance 26‑02 regulating short‑term rentals 4–3. Sponsors said spacing and conditional permits will protect neighborhoods; opponents warned of unequal treatment and potential legal challenges.
New Franklin — The City Council voted on March 18 to adopt Ordinance 26‑02, a new framework regulating short‑term rental operations in the city, after a contentious debate focused on a proposed 300‑foot spacing rule and enforcement mechanics. The ordinance passed 4–3.
Council proponents said the ordinance balances property rights with neighborhood stability. Mayor (role title used in transcript) told council the 300‑foot spacing measure was designed to "maintain the neighborhood" in areas where short‑term rentals could otherwise cluster and change the character of closely spaced lakefront communities.
Opponents said a fixed spacing rule could treat neighbors unequally by denying a homeowner a use that a nearby owner already holds. One councilmember argued the law should target “bad actors” — problematic rentals that generate calls and disturbance — rather than restrict adjacent property rights. Several council members also flagged enforcement burdens on the zoning and public‑safety offices and warned the city could face legal challenges if the spacing provision is applied unevenly.
Public comment was strongly represented. Mike Hoffman (413 Melture Avenue) told council the 300‑foot spacing would "put a tourniquet" on rapid commercialization of neighborhoods and urged passage as an interim protection while the city crafts longer‑term policy.
Key features discussed in the ordinance include conditional one‑year permits, complaint‑driven enforcement measures, and a reapplication process for operators who lose a permit. Sponsors said the conditional permit approach lets the city revoke privileges for operators who violate standards; some residents and council members sought longer suspensions for repeat violations.
Councilmembers voted by roll call. Those voting in favor were Councilmember Cox, Councilmember Jones, Councilmember Powell and Councilmember Cly. Those voting against were Councilmember Almond, Councilmember Schaefer and Councilmember Wolf. The ordinance now proceeds to implementation steps managed by city staff; opponents said they may review legal avenues.
The council emphasized the ordinance is intended to address concentrated short‑term rental clustering in sensitive neighborhoods, while staff acknowledged questions remain about enforcement logistics and resource needs. Council members said they will monitor outcomes and consider amendments if compliance and enforcement prove insufficient.
