A short-term rental conditional use was approved by Milford City Council at a recent meeting. The request came from May Stanley who plans to use the home as a vacation rental for visitors.
“The property currently contains a single-family detached dwelling, and the applicant is seeking permission to utilize that dwelling as a short-term rental. The property is located on the north side of Causey Avenue between South Walnut Street and Church Street with an address of 7 Causey Avenue, again,” City Planner Rob Pierce said. “Short-term rentals are not specifically listed under the C2 district, however, Chapter 230-13 (c)(1) states, “motels or hotels may be permitted, subject to receiving a conditional use permit from city council.” Because the proposal is similar to those uses, the solicitor and I felt like we could allow the applicant to move forward under that section of the conditional use.”
Pierce pointed out that there was a bed and breakfast across the street from the address. He also stated that there was a driveway with parking for anyone who chose to rent the property. Councilman Dan Marabello asked if there were any comments from neighbors about the conditional use and Pierce stated there were no comments for or against the request.
“Just to reiterate, we’re really excited about this home being right there, off the main strip, to allow families to come and stay and really get the experience of Milford, the way my husband and I and our family love Milford, and we really do,” May Stanley, whose home address was on Trinity Drive in Lincoln, said. “We really put so much thought and effort into this home to allow people to enjoy and like I said last week, this is just for families. I mentioned eight people. There’s off street parking, which could fit four cars, but we would only allow two cars.”
A public hearing was held regarding the request, and no one spoke for or against the conditional use. After a motion was made and seconded to approve the request, a roll call vote was taken.
“I approve the proposal here,” Marabello said. “It’s consistent with the area. There already is a bed and breakfast there, and there’s no objection to it going forward.”
Councilwoman Nadia Zychal also voted yes.
“I also approve for the reasons stated by Dan. I’d also like to add that it’s a wonderful location for such a use,” Zychal said. “It conforms to the neighborhood and hopefully will introduce some young families and some visitors to enjoy the pleasures that Milford has to offer and some of the festivities that we have.”
Both Councilwoman Lori Connor as well as Councilmen Michael Stewart and Danny Perez voted yes for reasons stated by Zychal and Marabello.
“This area is the proper area for short term rental, and it does allow people to come and enjoy the Milford downtown area,” Councilman Jason James said.
The final vote was Councilman Katrina Wilson.
“I vote yes as it does conform with the surrounding area,” Wilson said.
The vote was seven to zero as Councilwoman Madula Kalesis was not present.
