Work Session (Handout 1 Additional Communication)

**Executive Summary**

**Introduction**
The letter dated February 7, 2024, addressed to the Empire Village Council Members, expresses significant opposition to the proposed ordinance limiting short-term rentals within the village. The authors, Carol Purcell and Roland Woodring, share their personal story and the implications that such an ordinance would have on their lives and the community at large.

**Background**
Purcell and Woodring have owned their home at 10210 Wilce St. since 1988, initially as a primary residence. Their lifelong ties to Empire are evident as both work locally and maintain friendships in the area. Although they currently reside in Traverse City, they cherish the Empire property and wish to keep it as a potential future residence. Financial pressures and the need for maintenance and management of the property have led them to pursue short-term rentals through VACASA, after struggling with the challenges of long-term rentals.

**Concerns and Implications**
The authors articulate several concerns regarding the proposed limitations on short-term rentals, emphasizing the financial strains it would impose. Without the ability to rent out their home, they face potential loss of income to maintain the property, risking its deterioration and impacting the community negatively. Purcell and Woodring strongly advocate for the continuation of short-term rental opportunities, highlighting the mutual benefits for both property owners and the village.

**Conclusion**
In closing, Purcell and Woodring plead with the council to reconsider the potential ordinance against short-term rentals, stressing that such restrictions would not only affect their personal situation but also have broader negative ramifications for the community as a whole. The letter serves as a heartfelt appeal to preserve the flexibility that short-term rentals provide to homeowners in Empire.