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Staff reports progress on short-term rental software, staffing and Rock House repairs
Summary
Staff reported progress implementing Rentalscapes for short-term rental compliance, introduced a new planner/GIS coordinator, and provided updates on Rock House repairs and Elk Meadows development timelines; commissioners raised graffiti and enforcement concerns.
Community development staff told the planning commission on Nov. 4 that the village is implementing the Rentalscapes short-term rental management system and is in training and data-cleanup phases. "They're cleaning up all the data... but it looks good," the staff member said, and staff said letters to noncompliant rental hosts will be sent after training is complete.
Staff introduced Chris Camacho as planner and GIS coordinator, noting he joined the department Oct. 19 after an interdepartment transfer and briefly outlining his background in parks and recreation, surveying and GIS work. Administrative staffing changes were also noted, with interviews planned to replace a retiring administrative assistant.
On capital projects, staff provided an update on repairs at the Rock House property, including retaining-wall work, added drainage and a new drive pad; the public-works director provided a target occupancy of approximately March for rental availability pending remaining work. Staff said Elk Meadows, a private development, is not expected to have occupancy until 2027 under current plans, though contractors are working on multiple units simultaneously.
In commissioners' comments, a commissioner linked visible graffiti in Midtown to "broken windows" concerns and economic harm, saying graffiti left up all summer can make visitors feel unsafe. Staff said code enforcement resources are limited after a staff departure and that the village is coordinating with Keep Rio Beautiful and property owners to abate graffiti promptly.
What’s next: Staff will begin sending compliance letters for short-term rentals after finishing training and data cleanup, will continue work on Rock House repairs, and will report back to the commission on enforcement and Midtown code updates.
