“I object to the proposal to increase the per unit annual fee on short-term rentals from $160 to $540.”
Former Grand Haven mayor and rental owner Catherine McNally joined several residents speaking out against the proposed fee increase. The proposal also recommended a long-term registration increase from $100 to $125 per unit.
During her presentation to the city council, Finance Director Emily Greene said the city needs to make sure it’s covering the cost of expenses to run these programs.
“So, these fees are based on actual numbers of actual employees that have duties responsible for the short-term and long-term rental program.”
Grand Haven has 348 short-term rentals and over 1,600 long-term rentals. Greene stated the proposed fees are in line with surrounding communities, like Muskegon’s $500 short-term rental registration fee.
“Saugatuck, $525. Douglas, $500. South Haven, $600 for business.”
Ultimately, the council agreed that a gradual fee increase over time rather than a sudden jump was preferable. Councilwoman Karen Lowe.
“It doesn’t make up for the fact that we haven’t been charging what we should’ve been charging all along, but to do it overnight? It’s unfair.”
A revised fee schedule will be presented to the council in April.
