Suggestions of a quick, final decision on a revamped short-term rentals (STR) ordinance by the Putnam County Board of Commissioners may, like Mark Twain’s famous rejoinder after receiving news of his death, be premature.
A two-hour work session Tuesday morning reviewed County Attorney Adam Nelson’s draft ordinance based on earlier discussions and citizen input, plus some of the draft’s legal and practical implications.
Sheriff Howard Sills also went over several enforcement issues.
“I can see this not being over until the first of the year,” bemoaned District 4 Commissioner Jeff Wooten.
No formal decisions were made, although consensus appeared to be reached on many details. One issue which may be resolved sooner rather than later – with District 3 Commissioner Alan Foster specifically pressing the point – is what restrictions and procedures would be applied in the county’s two most restrictive (and politically sensitive) residential zones, R-1R and R-1.
Another work session is set for July 7, following the commission’s regularly scheduled 9 a.m. first meeting of the month.