After months of development and a fourth consideration, the Cleveland City Council voted Monday night to approve amendments to the city’s zoning ordinance to allow Short Term Rentals in residential districts within the city.
City Administrator Tom O’Bryant told the council the document had all the changes that they asked for and provides the requirements for those who would like to participate. Short-term rentals must be approved by the city before they can take place.
Mayor Josh Turner said he feels this will be a good thing for the city.
“There’s no secret that this area has a lot of interest in tourism and currently, there are not many options for overnight accommodations in the city. Hopefully, this will provide some more opportunities for folks who want to stay close into the downtown square and also provide a little more revenue for the city as well with hotel-motel tax,” he said.
During their meeting, the council also had the first reading of amendments to the city’s alcohol beverage ordinance that would allow for curbside service, but the businesses that would like to offer the service must meet strict guidelines. Currently, only two businesses, Ingles and Walmart, have indicated they would like to offer that type of service.
The Council conducted the first reading on regulations governing pawn shops and pawnbrokers. Ward 3 Councilman Jeremy McClure and Ward 4 Councilman CJ McDonald voiced concerns with charging a $150 license fee for each additional employee of the pawnshops. That additional fee requirement was removed before the approval of the first reading.
A second reading of the regulations must be held before they become effective.
