A VIEW FROM THE COUNCIL TABLE

Woodcreek City Council

Editor’s Note: The views expressed by the writer are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of the city they serve.

Our Woodcreek Planning & Development Committee has voted unanimously to propose the allowance of Short-Term Rentals in our City. The item will be heard during a series of meetings, and public comments are welcome. This wasn‘t a snap decision, nor do we intend to start leasing our own homes. Speaking frankly, there were multiple inputs to this outcome.

As leaders, we’re tasked with ensuring equal treatment among our citizens. Yet, an entire section of our City has STR zoning, while the rest do not! Watching Austin waste countless dollars attempting to legislate against STR’s, we felt Woodcreek should establish comprehensive guidelines to clarify homeowner responsibilities and give our Constable the ability to enforce noise and public nuisance issues. Still, the overarching decider came when our Texas Supreme Court ruled for homeowners and STR’s. We’re on the wrong side of the law and focusing on solid guidelines is a better use of our energy.

We know some folks will be upset. Some of us feel opposed to STR’s ourselves, but the law favors homeowners’ rights. We’re simply applying common sense while creating equitable rules.