Commission adopts new ordinance procedures and sets public hearing on short‑term rental rules

The Canyon City Commission on July 28 adopted an amendment to its rules of procedure that standardizes how ordinances are introduced, when public hearings occur and the timeline for first and second readings. Commissioners said the change was intended to increase transparency, ensure consistent public notice and reduce procedural confusion from past practice.

Staff explained the amendment adds a dedicated ordinance section so the public and staff know when a public hearing will occur and how amendments are handled. One practical effect discussed was the 14‑day public‑notice window: because notices print on Thursday but the commission meets 12 days later, some items will shift to the next meeting to satisfy notice requirements.

Separately, the commission introduced Ordinance 443, the city’s proposed short‑term rental policy, and scheduled a public hearing for Aug. 25. Planner Tony summarized the planning commission’s recommendation: grandfather up to 15 existing short‑term rentals in the community and permit up to 15 new units in the non‑R1 designations (generally commercial corridors), while keeping short‑term rentals out of single‑family neighborhoods. Tony said, “short‑term rentals are considered a commercial use,” and that the proposal aims to protect school enrollment and preserve long‑term housing.

Commissioners acknowledged the ordinance stirred contention but said the rules amendment gives residents more time to review and comment before final decisions. The scheduled August public hearing will serve as the first reading under the new procedure, with a second reading to follow at a later meeting.

Next steps: staff will publish notices for the Aug. 25 public hearing, distribute ordinance text to the public, and accept public comment at the hearing.