At issue: short term rentals

Historic City News has learned that a proposed ordinance to regulate short term rentals goes to a second public hearing when the St. Augustine City Commission convenes at their regular Monday night meeting.

The ordinance, prompted by use of a property that is allegedly being rented for large wedding parties and advertised on the Internet, has been at issue and is the source of irritation for some residents on and around Water Street.

Two weeks ago, commissioners and speakers wrestled with control of specific events without impacting normal residential activities throughout the city.

One proposal to register properties rented more than four times a year brought concerns that homestead exemption status could be threatened, while a citywide limit of less than 20 persons at a function could impact periodic residential functions.

Also on the agenda will be a tougher panhandling ordinance, presentations on the proposed San Sebastian River bridge replacement, pedestrian access improvements along the bayfront, a policy for loaning city-owned artifacts and a progress report on the installation of mooring fields