SAUGATUCK, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Aug. 26, 2024) – On Monday evening, Saugatuck tackles the short-term rental issue head on.
On the agenda for the biweekly City Council business meeting are ordinance amendments involving this contentious subject for consideration and vote. One would impose a 20 percent cap on the number of short-term rentals in the R1 Residential District, establish the effect of such limits on existing licenses, and establish how available licenses will be issued. Another would establish police power in this matter.
The issue has caused some division, not only in the community, but on the council itself. Some say that it would help maintain neighborhood character and decorum, while others contend that it would stifle tourism and hamper efforts to sell residential property in the area.
In addition, Council will be asked to approve a contract with Metro Wireless to provide WiFi service at Oval Beach. The area along the Lake Michigan shoreline is weak for cellular and Internet service, and AT&T’s efforts to renovate the Mt. Baldhead site nearby have been bogged down by bureaucratic red tape from Lansing and Washington.
Metro Wireless will provide satellite service to the area at a one-time installation and equipment cost of $15,000, with a $698 monthly charge for service and support over a three-year period. The Saugatuck Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is joining with the city for financially supporting this initiative.
The Saugatuck City Council’s 6:30 PM business session is in the second floor meeting room at Saugatuck City Hall (102 Butler St.). An online link to the agenda and supporting documents is here.
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