The Committee considered Corporate Services Department report, COR-2025-041, dated April 17, 2025, recommending approval of the proposed short-term rental by-law. In addition, the Committee was in receipt of a written submission from M. Wolde related to this matter.
The Mayor left and re-entered the meeting at this time.
K. VanDerGeld, Manager of Licensing, introduced the report, noting the matter was initially presented to the Committee on June 3, 2024, at which time staff were directed to further examine concerns raised and report back. The Manager provided a detailed update on additional work undertaken, community engagement conducted, and proposed amendments to the regulations since 2024. An overview of the licensing and application requirements were also provided. R. Clark, Risk Manager, and A. Fusco, Director of Legislated Services and City Clerk, were also in attendance to respond to questions.
A. Lavender and N. Thibeh addressed the Committee in opposition to the proposed short-term rental by-law, highlighting concerns over increased insurance costs due to the shift to commercial coverage, the City indemnification requirement, and licensing fees, and urged consideration of a registration system that excludes licensing and indemnification.
E. Tjam attended the meeting in opposition to the proposed short-term rental by-law, seeking clarification on how properties are classified and when a rental is deemed commercial. E. Tjam stated that commercial rentals differ from acting as a “property host” and opposed restricting short-term rentals to principal residences.
Questions were raised regarding the possibility of amending the proposed by-law to remove the City indemnification requirement, and whether indemnification is necessary at all times or only when in use.