Work Session (STR Petition Letter)

**Executive Summary**

**Introduction**
This document serves as a formal communication to the Empire Short Term Rental Committee and the Empire Village Council concerning a community petition advocating for the support of the Regulation Ordinance related to Short Term Rentals (STRs). The petition has garnered support from 80 registered voters and an additional 15 property owners within the Empire Village, reflecting a broad cross-section of community sentiment regarding the regulation of STRs.

**Community Engagement**
The initiative was driven by a group of full-time residents who actively participated in local meetings and discussions over several months. Their outreach efforts culminated in canvassing community members to gather signatures, particularly addressing neighborhoods where STRs constitute a significant portion of residences. Of particular note, streets such as Niagra and Wilce, where over 30% of homes are STRs, were highlighted as areas of concern. The petition represents around 20% of the approximately 400 registered voters in the village, indicating a substantial portion of the community supports the call for regulation.

**Call to Action**
The petition implores the Village Council to take proactive steps in supporting the Regulation Ordinance, emphasizing the council’s role as custodians of community welfare. While the document acknowledges the importance of STRs within the local economy, it strongly advocates for their management to preserve the balance of community life. The signatories believe that responsible regulation is essential for the continued health of the community.