Commission recommends approval for Marlin Street short‑term rental; packet heads to Mayor & Commission

The Planning Commission recommended approval of a special‑use permit for 159 Marlin Street to operate as a commercial short‑term rental (4 bedrooms; proposed occupancy up to ten people). Staff had recommended denial, noting this site sits within a traditional neighborhood future‑land‑use category and expressing concern about the cumulative effect of new commercial short‑term rentals on housing supply and neighborhood character.

Applicant Adam Kilgo said the property is a local, owner‑controlled home intended primarily as the family’s second residence; he said the family will occupy the unit much of the year and expects occasional rentals (football weekends, family visits) to offset ownership costs. Kilgo emphasized local ties and proposed house rules, guest screening and a two‑night minimum to reduce party use.

Neighbors voiced typical neighborhood concerns at length: parking, noise, safety and loss of community character. Commissioners debated policy tensions between owner‑occupied short‑term rentals and commercial STRs that are not primary residences. Several commissioners referenced the political climate and recent Mayor & Commission votes on STRs; others said they preferred to weigh individual circumstances.

On roll call the commission voted 5–2 to recommend approval; because Planning Commission recommendations are advisory, the application will next go to the Mayor & Commission for final action. The commission’s packet will include staff analysis, the applicant’s proposed management commitments and the record of public comments.