The Galveston Short Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee convened on July 16, 2025, to discuss the enforcement of short-term rental regulations and the processes surrounding violations. The meeting focused on the criteria for determining violations, the consequences for property owners, and the procedural aspects of hearings related to license revocation.

The committee began by addressing the importance of evidence in noise violation complaints. It was emphasized that a mere complaint from a neighbor is insufficient; there must be a citation issued to substantiate any claims. The burden of proof in these cases is lower than in criminal cases, requiring only a preponderance of evidence to determine if a violation occurred.

The discussion then shifted to the enforcement process, highlighting that property owners would receive notice of potential license revocation if they accumulate three violations. The committee outlined that if a property owner is found in violation, they have the opportunity to explain their actions during a hearing. If they fail to adequately defend themselves, they risk losing their license for six months or until the end of the licensing year.

Committee members expressed concerns about the clarity of the ordinance and the need for specific language regarding what constitutes a violation. There was a consensus that the ordinance should clearly define the timeline for remedying complaints, with suggestions for a one-hour response time and a subsequent timeframe for resolution.

The conversation also touched on the challenges of data accuracy in tracking violations. Instances were shared where property owners received erroneous notices of non-compliance, highlighting the need for a reliable database that accurately reflects the status of short-term rentals in Galveston.

The committee concluded with a discussion on the communication process for notifying property owners of violations. It was suggested that a system be established to inform owners when they receive a violation, ensuring they are aware of their standing and the potential consequences of further infractions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to refining the enforcement process for short-term rentals, ensuring that regulations are clear, fair, and effectively communicated to property owners. The next steps involve finalizing the ordinance details and addressing the operational challenges related to data management and enforcement.