Report from the June 13^th Avon Town Council Meeting

Transit budget, broadband opportunities and short term rentals discussed

Future work sessions to discuss Nottingham Park: removing disc golf course, not allowing dogs at the beach and prohibiting smoking during free special events

• Council approved a resolution amending the Transit Fund budget. The budget was increased by $58,744.00, allowing for expanded summer bus service hours for the Red and Blue lines due to increased ridership. The additional funds will also support the Night Rider route, which offers increased bus service between 6:00 and 10:00 p.m. Other changes include a pilot Town of Avon carpool program, new bus shelter signage and community boards, and a pilot bike-share program.

• During the work session, Council discussed whether a ballot measure should be considered for the November 7, 2017 election, to seek an exemption from the prohibitions of Senate Bill (SB) 05-152, which restricts the ability of a municipality or county to provide broadband services. In the past few years, 68 municipalities and 28 counties have placed measures on the ballot to override SB 152’s prohibitions. An exemption allows municipalities the right to provide advanced high speed internet, cable television or telecommunications services, directly or indirectly with public and/or private sector partners, to residents, businesses, nonprofit entities, and other users   located within the Town’s boundaries.  Discussion included the opportunities for broadband partnerships, estimated cost and timing for a ballot question. Council decided to move forward with a ballot measure, and directed Town staff to present a resolution to Council in July to consider the ballot language.

• Town Council also, during the work session, assessed options for identifying short term rental units and enforcing town codes regarding the requirement for business licenses and the payment of taxes when rented. Currently, the Town of Avon’s Short Term Rental (STR) codes require every person who advertises for rent an accommodation unit(s) or room(s) used for accommodation for a period of fewer than thirty (30) days to have a business license and to collect and remit accommodation and sales taxes. Town staff recommended Host Compliance LLC be retained, which has a STR tracking an enforcement system.  Council will consider an agreement to retain Host Compliance LLC, at its July 11^th meeting.