Cobourg looking for feedback on Airbnb
By Cecilia Nasmith
With Cobourg properties already among such Short Term Rental Accommodation listings as Vrbo and Flipkey, the Town of Cobourg’s Communications Department is pleased to announce an Engage Cobourg project to gather feedback from residents and stakeholders on STRAs.
The project newly launched on Engage Cobourg – an on-line public-engagement platform - is asking for feedback on STRAs, which are defined as private residential dwellings that are rented to provide temporary accommodation to a person or persons who usually do not reside in that dwelling. Along with Vrbo and Flipkey, common STRA platforms include Airbnb and Kijiji.
Feedback will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 22.
“This is an important topic for Cobourg, as the Legislative Services Department is currently considering licensing regulations, and the Planning Department is looking at land uses,” Director of Legislative Services Brent Larmer said in the announcement.
“We want to hear feedback from residents and business owners to help us understand the various perspectives as we consider ways to move forward.
“I encourage everyone eligible to participate in the brief survey, and have your voice heard.”
While the municipality does not currently regulate STRAs specifically, existing bylaws still encompass nuisances and permitted commercial uses of residential properties When complaints arise, staff can use existing municipal tools to address some of these concerns, such as involving By-law Enforcement, Building Services or Planning Services.
Past STRA-related complaints relayed to the town and to council through delegations have included community-safety concerns, parking problems, noise and litter complaints, potential impact on property values and available enforcement options.
As a result of direction from council, a staff report on STRAs explored potential regulatory approaches with the intent of finding a balance that promotes economic growth, while preserving the character of local communities and protecting health and safety.
How to Participate on Engage Cobourg
Residents are encouraged to share their thoughts by participating in such public-engagement opportunities as taking the survey, joining the forum and asking questions. Feedback gathered from this Engage Cobourg project will help town council and staff members as they undertake further analysis of STRAs in Cobourg and make informed decisions.
To register on Engage Cobourg, visit www.engagecobourg.ca and click on the Register Today! button.
For questions or help registering, please e-mail communication@cobourg.ca.
