Yates Town Board sets July 10 for hearing on short-term rentals

Press Release from Town of Yates

YATES – At their board meeting on June 8, the Yates Town Board voted unanimously for a resolution setting a date for a Town Hall meeting regarding Short-Term Rentals. The meeting is set for 6:30 p.m. Monday, July 10, at the Town Hall.

The Yates Town Board began a review of its Short-Term Rental (STR) local law several months ago as a result of the increased number of inquiries regarding STRs in the town.

“We’ve had calls both for and against STRs – especially on the lakeshore,” said Supervisor Jim Simon.

Of late, several towns in Orleans County have adopted updated STR local laws which reflect a wide range of different approaches to the topic: from banning new STRs in certain zoning districts to imposing very few restrictions.

Councilwoman Susan Hrovat wants to hear from more people in town.

“This shouldn’t just be decided based on how long someone has lived in our town, rather, our local law should be based on what is the right thing to do to protect property rights as well as foster democracy,” she said.

After some debate at the board meeting, the board agreed with Councilman John Riggi that any further plans after the town hall meeting should be based on the feedback the board gets.  “This is an opportunity for our residents to be heard, and we should do so before we even decide to modify our existing STR local law.”

The town hall meeting is open to all – residents and non-residents of the town.

“We’ve had an inquiry from someone outside of town who wants to buy waterfront property to establish an Airbnb, and we’ve been asked if we can further restrict Airbnbs by someone out of town who is considering buying a cottage on the lake – we need to hear from everyone,” Simon said.