Cassadaga continues short-term rental debate
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CASSADAGA -- The topic of short-term rental properties came up again at a recent Village Board meeting.
Sean Seibert, a resident of the village of Cassadaga, raised concerns he had with specific parts of a recent draft of the local law.
"The latest revision, as far as I'm concerned, is a huge improvement. Most of the concerns that I had raised and other people have raised seemed to have been addressed," Seibert said. "There are a couple of things that I would comment on, though."
Among his concerns were accessory use, the definition of parties, and fines and penalties – which Seibert called the "most important one." Seibert took issue with the lack of clarity in the law on who defines what is deserving of a fine and the language that stipulates what fines would be. "It's very vague," Seibert said.
The Village Board clarified the Code Enforcement Officer will have the authority to determine fines for violations that are not remediated.
"That's what I would've thought, as well, but that's not specified in this law," Seibert said.
Regarding a line in the law that states short-term rentals shall not be used for any parties, Seibert also took issue with the lack of a clear definition of what a party consists of.On accessory use, specifically units such as a detached garage or an "in-law apartment", the Village Board previously decided against allowing as short-term rental properties.
Seibert said an accessory use dwelling unit "satisfies the need for people who are looking to create a short-term rental, and it also satisfies the need of preserving housing stock in the village." Seibert asked the Village Board to reconsider the stance of ruling out accessory use dwellings as short-term rentals.
Village Trustee Cathy Cruver asked, "How many do we have currently that even exist as accessory dwellings?"
Seibert and Trustee Cindy Flaherty referenced one property in particular, which they questioned if it would pass an inspection for a potential special use permit.
Cruver said, "I think we should keep in mind too, pick your battles. If it's something that's going to make a major difference, then let's go after it."
The Village Board entertained a discussion with Seibert about his concerns for approximately 17 minutes. Flaherty stated she will mention the concerns he raised to Village Attorney Joe Calimeri.
No action was taken at the meeting regarding the proposed law. A public hearing will need to be held before the local law can be officially adopted.