But wait, there’s more.
That popular marketing trope is often used to hook consumers into buying a product based on its additional features. Everyone likes added benefits when it comes to household goods.
For those who have spent the past two-plus years reading about the possible amortization of short term rentals in Highlands, the passage of an amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance that ends STR’s as a permitted use in R1 and R2 residential zoning districts in September of 2027 may seem like the final conclusion to settle the matter.
But wait, there’s more.
As Highlands Mayor Pat Taylor pointed out during the board meeting on Thursday night, the town is expecting to be sued by STR owners who do not want to stop generating revenue by renting out their R1 and R2 properties.
Taylor went as far as to ask for a motion stating the town would not take any private funds to fight the legal battles in court.
“If we are going to make this change, and litigation is going to follow, we need to be clear we are doing this as a board and that we are not being financially backed by any outside person or group when it comes to those legal fees,” Taylor said.
The motion passed by a 4-1 vote.
Highlands has been divided regarding STR’s, their impact, and their future since 2021 when complaints began flowing in regarding residential properties being rented out by the night like hotels, some with loud guests, increased traffic, and little oversight. In 2022, the board passed a resolution that stopped new STRs from opening in R1 and R2 zones and is currently being sued over that decision. The amortization discussion has been ongoing since that time.
Once the legal battle begins, it’s almost certain to take years to reach a resolution. So if you are tired of reading about the future of short term rentals in Highlands, we have bad news for you.
The amortization amendment may have passed, but wait, there’s more.