The City Council of New Franklin, Ohio, convened on May 25, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods. The meeting began with a discussion led by Mike Hoffman, a resident advocating for stricter regulations on short-term rentals, particularly in densely populated areas. Hoffman expressed concerns about the disruptive nature of these rentals, citing incidents of noise and parking violations that have affected the quality of life for full-time residents.

Council members acknowledged the ongoing efforts to draft legislation that would regulate short-term rentals. Key points of discussion included the need for a conditional use permit system, which would require property owners to apply for permission to operate short-term rentals. This system would allow the city to enforce rules regarding guest occupancy limits, noise control, and parking regulations. The proposed legislation aims to limit occupancy to two guests per bedroom, plus two additional guests, and to restrict parking to designated areas only.

The council also discussed the importance of having a local contact available 24/7 to address any issues that may arise during a rental period. This requirement is intended to ensure that residents can quickly resolve problems related to noise or disturbances. Additionally, the council is considering implementing maintenance and safety standards for rental properties, including fire inspections and the presence of smoke detectors.

Concerns were raised about the potential for litigation if the regulations are perceived as targeting specific properties or owners. Council members emphasized the need to craft the legislation carefully to avoid legal challenges while still providing relief to affected residents. The discussion highlighted the balance between allowing property owners to operate rentals and protecting the interests of long-term residents.

As the meeting progressed, council members expressed their commitment to finalizing the draft legislation and ensuring that it addresses the concerns of the community. The council plans to continue gathering input from residents and stakeholders as they work towards implementing these regulations.

In conclusion, the City Council of New Franklin is actively working on legislation to regulate short-term rentals, aiming to strike a balance between property rights and community well-being. The council's next steps will involve refining the proposed regulations and engaging with residents to ensure their voices are heard in the decision-making process.