Representative Town Meeting (RTM) - Minutes - 08/23/2023

PHONE: 860-442-0553
www.waterfordct.org
FIFTEEN ROPE FERRY ROAD
WATERFORD, CT 06385-2886
PUBLIC WORKS PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT STANDING COMMITTEE OF THE
RTM
SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
7:00 P.M. Waterford Town Hall
Meeting Called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairperson Mike Rocchettti.
Roll Call
Present: Michael Bono, Ryan Healy, Ted Olynciw, Mike Rocchetti, Kyrah Augmon-Bossa
Absent: None
Others Present: Planning Director Jonathan Mullen, AICP; Chief of Police Marc Balestracci,
Planning and Zoning Chair Greg Massad, RTM Member Susan Driscoll
Public Comment
None
Agenda Item 5 - To Consider and act upon the minutes of the July 13, 2022 meeting.
MOTION made by Bono, Second by Healy to accept the minutes.
Motion passed: 4-0-1(Augmon-Bossa Abstained).
Agenda Item 5- Consideration of and possible action on items referred to committee.
A. Short Term Rentals, RTC 12/06/21
Discussion ensued. Director of Planning Jonathan Mullen, AICP spoke in regard to the results of
the survey the town conducted on short term rental (attached) and gave examples of what other
towns are doing who are dealing with the same issue. Waterford Police Chief Chief Marc
Balestracci reported on the Police Deptartments perspective on short term rentals in regard to
noise, speeding, parking, and disturbances. Planning & Zoning Chair Greg Massad provided
legal background and P&Zs perspective. He shared his concerns about legal costs over
challenges to any restriction on STRs (Short Term Rentals) and wanting to wait and let other
towns and cities go through the legal process first. Also that we just approved ADUs (Accessory
Dwelling Units) in the past couple of months and this could possibly restrict the right just
approved. Talked about working with the property owners of any problem properties as a way of
correcting issues - it has been successful to a degree so far.
Also talked about other solutions to any issues which are to call police or take private legal
action.
No motions made
The group agreed to schedule an informational forum and community diséussion,
ma sf]
co
Motion to adjourn by Bono, seconded by Healy at 8:10 PM
Motion passed: Unanimous
Respectfully submitted
Mike Rocchetti Chair
pbs!
43 ‘NOs
u04 03
GY093u

Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
Q1 Which of the following best describes you? (Choose all that apply)
Answered: 457 = Skipped: 0
100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
20%
20%
10%
om i _
Permanent Owner Seasonal Commercial Renter Visitor
Waterford Waterford Property (stay in
Resident Resident Owner Waterford
(1-6 mon... less tha...
ANSWER: CHOICES. RESPONSES
Permanent Waterford Resident 92% 421
Owner 41% 186
Seasonal Waterford Resident (1-6 months of the year) 4% 19
Commercial Property Owner 1% i]
Renter 1% 4
Visitor (stay in Waterford less than 30 days in a year) 0% 1
Total: Respondents::457
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
431
444 Shawandassee Road 6/11/2023 8:07 AM
41s Wood street 6/11/2023 7:49 AM
“416 na 6/11/2023 731 AM
447 “Jonathan Law Ct : 6/11/2023 6:24 AM
418 ‘Guishottd StStC<CSs—‘“CsSsSSSSS 6/11/2023 6:40 AM
419 Oswegaichie ~ 6/11/2023 5:00 AM
420 Norman Street 6/11/2023 1:24 AM
421 : Not Germain to this questionnaire 6/10/2023 11:33 PM
422 Roxwood Road 6/10/2023 9:58 PM
423 Highland drive 6/10/2023 9:38 PM
“2d , Indian Valley Dr 6/10/2023 9:24 PM
425 Seymour Ln 6/10/2023 9:07 PM
426 ~ Twin Lakes Drive 6/10/2023 7:29 PM
427 "Fog plain road "6/9/2023 2:08 PM
428 Yorkshire Dr 6/9/2023 4:26 AM
429 Kathryn Court 6/5/2023 8:40 PM
430 268 Niantic River Road 5/26/2023 4:51 PM
: 65 Scotch Cap Road
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
Q3 Do you advertise your home for short-term rentals?
Answered: 454 = Skipped: 3
100%
80%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
om — amet
No, and | don’: Not yet, but | Yes, | have or 1 do not own
plan to. plan to in the am currently residential
future, advertising it. property in
Waterford.
ANSWER:CHOICES RESPONSES Se
No, and | don't plan to. 86% 330
Not yet, but | plan to in the future, a% 38
Yes, | have or am currently advertising it. 4% ig
| do nat own residential property in Waterford, 2% 7.
TOTAL 
454
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
Q4 If you operate a short term rental, what type of property have you
advertised in Waterford?
Answered: 48 = Skipped: 409
100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%We |
0% L— nent —
Single Family in-law apartment Detached Room(s) (.¢.,
Home apartment not the whole
(garage dwelling)
apartment...
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Single Family Home 85%
In-law apartment 10%
Detached apartment (garage apartment, carriage house, etc.) 13%
Room(s) (.e., not the whole dwelling) 4%
Total Respondents: 48.
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
Q5 If you operate a short-term rental, do you live at the property while it is
being rented?
100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
Answered: 50
Skipped: 407
30%
20%
10%
Yes No
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES 5
Yes 24.00% 12
No 76.00% 38
TOTAL
16/53
50

Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
rent your property on a short-term basis.
Answered: 43. Skipped: 414
Q6 If you operate a short-term rental, please describe why you chose to
reliable. Companies like Airk&b haid stock in their guests to do the right thing and ensure
proper use of the property and backed by extra insurance!!
# RESPONSES: DATE
1 Money 8/19/2023 8:18 PM
2 Offset living expenses 8/19/2023 10:59 AM
3 ! travel for work and allows me to create incame to supplement my income with yhe rising cost 8/16/2023 2:55 PM
of living.
4 Summer weekly rentals - Competitive with Niantic market 7/28/2023 8:06 AM
5 Pleasure Beach. Evenis at harkness. Etc. 7126/2023 2:26 PM
6 Many people I know that do rent their home (or a portion of their home) do so in order to be 7/26/2023 8:57 AM
able to afford living there.
7 Rental income 7/91/2023 4:58 PM
8 occasional 1-2 week rentats to ‘known Pleasure Beach acquaintances or friends- of ‘friends 71412023 8:37 AM
through word of mouth from family members and street neighbors to help defray taxes and
renovation costs.
9 so that it is available to family members when needed 6/30/2023 1: 59 PM
10 Income 6/30/2023 10: 08 AM
41 | grew up in old Lyme. My parents are aging and | live out of state. | bought this property tobe 6/27/2023 6:42 PM
claser to help thern out. While | am not here, ! Aironb it to help with costs.
12 \ choose to rent my property when | am not occupying it 1 have heen visiting Pleasure Beach 6/24/2023 6:21 PM
my whole life, as many of the renters in the area have, [ rent to the same families every year,
and have no concern about the responsibility of those families staying in my house.
13 Cover faxes and upgrades 6/23/2023 8:19 PM
44 This our summer/weekend home and ‘renting it out periodically covers taxes, utilities and 6/23/2023 7:53 PM
upkeep/ungrades.
15 Income, Use by family and friends. 6/23/2023 4:34 PM
16 ftisa Seasonal cottage and has been a rental for 100 years 6/23/2023 4:23 PM
17 Regular access to the property, cleaning in between tenants, better return on investment 6/23/2023 2:49 PM
18 Investing and bettering the neighboring area by renovating old homes and renting them aut. 6/23/2023 10:30 AM
Great source of income, great for the towns tax rofl (higher values= higher property taxes=
more money for the town), provides more nice, maintained homes in the area to be sold in the
future, is one of the oldest forms of business in America and has been a right of property
owners long before America was a country. The values of the whole neighborhood goes up
when the homes in the area are updated and maintained. The area only commands tourism 3/4
months out of the year and majority of renters are peaple who have an association to the area,
aka grew up here, family lives here and they are visiting them, or have friends who live here
and grew up here.
19 It's my full time job. It allows me to provide for my family. 6/23/2023 10:27 AM
20 We rent a campsite as side money to help pay for property improvements 6/23/2023 9:47 AM
24 Long term renters abuse the property, don’t pay on time and squat. Short term is easy and 6/23/2023 9:27 AM
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
22 Work takes me to other location 6/23/2023 8:40 AM
23 Summer shoreline properties gain more rent Short term father than long twim 6/23/2023 5:51 AM
24 j have been visiting the beach since 1 was a child, Iti is a small Beach community that 6/23/2023 1:10 AM
consisted af many cottages that were rented weekly during the summer. My children have
been coming ta the beach their whole lives. | had the oppartunity to purchase a cottage in the
neighborhood. Families, iike mine, have been vacationing at Pleasure Beach for decades, as a
result, there are families that return yearly, renting weekly, every year. It is a quiet, non-
commercial community, that has always consisted of seasonal vacationers and seasonal
residents.
“25 : i want to, ~ : 6/22/2023 41:27 PM
26 | do it while traveling ~ : 6/22/2023 10:11 PM
27 1 don’t currently but { would because | can, because why can't a little guy responsibly make a - 6/22/2023 9:59 PM
little money?
28 Extra Income 6/22/2023 7:07 PM
29 Additional income. Retirement plan. 6/22/2023 5:38 PM
30 Hive out of state, but return several times a year to see family and friends. | also have 6/22/2023 4:37 PM
business in town that | need to be present for several times per year. Renting it out allows me
to cover taxes and insurance while having a place to call home while |’m there.
31 - ! need the income to pay for my hame 6/22/2023 & 41 PM
32 _ supplemental income ~ —_ 6/22/2023 L 06 PM
33 ~ | have the capacity of the unused space and it helps to make financial ends meet 6/22/2023 1: 04 4PM
34 The location is prime- with vacationers coming to our town will only boost local businesses. 6/22/2023 12:26 PM
35 Financial opportunity 6/22/2023 12:20 PM
36 The short term rental is on 2 Race Rock Rd. in Waterford. Millstone point beach area is it 6/22/2023 10:03 AM
incredible and beautiful place. It is a wonderful experience for those who dant have access to
the water. It is also close to Niantic NewLandon and the casinos. The most important reason }
want to rent my house out here so | can keep my childhood home. The rental income helps me
keep the home so on the offer months | can still utilize it. Without noting it, it would be tough to
keep the property and once a property like this is lost, it is not easily gotten again.
37 Flexibility!!! 6/22/2023 8:20 AM
38 More profitable 6/22/2023 8:10 AM
39 Because the neighbor °) is doing airbnb making $$$, so loud, while our town, 911 or 6/20/2023 4:07 PM
community does not have any regulations and laws to limit those issues. | might have to
relocate and put his hause inta business as welll!
40 Make a living and offset the insane cost of owning a home. 6/13/2023 9:42 AM
4. To cover expenses such as property taxes 6/11/2023 8:19 PM
42 ( five out of State, use income to afford to have this home that | will retire in 6/11/2023 7:49 AM
43 This question is irrelevant. 6/10/2023 11:33 PM
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
Answered: 45
100%
30%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
Q7 If you operate a short-term rental, what platforms do you use to
advertise?
Skipped: 412
Total Respondents: 45.
0% Eee
Airbnb VBRO Home Away Facebook Ido not
advertise.
ANSWER: CHOICES. RESPONSES.
Airbnb 58% 26
VBRO 44% 20
Home Away 4% 2
Facebook 7% 3
| do not advertise. 31% 14
The standing committee has no fight to ask for any infarmation.
6/10/2023 11:33 PM
# OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY) DATE
a Where was this type of survey from the RTM for data center? 8/21/2023 4:50 AM
2 Word of mouth 6/27/2023 9:43 AM
3 : And by word of mauth 6/23/2023 4:23 PM
4 Tentrr 
6/23/2023 9:47 AM
5 Evolve " 6/23/2023 9:27 AM
6 or word of mouth 6/23/2023 8:40 AM
7 Evolve 6/23/2023 5:51AM
8 ° Realtor 6/22/2023 7:07 PM
9 FurnishedFinder 6/22/2023 1:41 PM ~
‘10 Word of mouth ~ 6/22/2023 12:20 PM
at Word if mouth/ referrals 6/22/2023 8:20 AM
12
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
Q8 Are any of the following an issue as they relate to short term rentals?
Answered: 413 Skipped: 44
permanent honeowners, diminishment. reduction of qyality of kifecand right to peaceful
20/53
100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
Party Noise Use Traffic Safety Not Parking Trash
Houses House and for knowing
forSTR speeding resident renters
only 8
8 Yes B No Eg Not sure
YES NO > NOT: SURE TOTAL.
Party Houses 63.21% 26.42% 10.37%
256 107 42 405
Noise 62.22% 27,65% 10.12%
252 112 Al 405
Use House for STR only 61.07% 26.28% 12.65%
251 108 52 411
Traffic and speeding 87.71% 30.35% 11.94%
232 122 48 402
Safety for residents 56.44% 31.93% 11.63%
228 129 47 404
Net knowing renters 53.12% 34.41% 12.47%
213 138 50 401
Parking 51.89% 35.26% 12.85%
206 140 51 397
Trash 45.34% 37.53% 17.13%
180 449 68 397
# OTHER: (PLEASE SPECIFY) DATE
1 More noise, car thefts, and speeding through MPA... sounds wonderful 8/21/2023 4:50 AM
2 Safety of area children 8/19/2023 12:55 PM
3 1 think all of these thing can be problems. There is one home currently being rented on my 8/19/2023 10:30 AM
street, Ava there have both been any problems that | am aware of. It is a home that the owner
grew up in, parents passed away, adult child lives elsewhere in New England and intends to
eventually retire in the home, Making money on short term rentals now.
4 Disruotion of sense of community with neighbors you know, dininishment of property values for 7/12/2023 11:00 PM

Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
enjoyment one’s home of quality of fife / safety concerns for children with constant strangers in
21/53
neighborhood
5 Noisey motorcycie’s _ 4112023 12:22 PM
6 Not respecting property boundaries "6/30/2023 % 10 PM
7 _ Answered asa a resident, Not as owner 6/27/2023 5: 38 PM
8 * Disregard for 0our community as a whole 6/26/2023 1:25 PM
9 Homeowners renting out their pools and hame for giant pool parties with non-compliant guests. 6/26/2023 9:03 AM
10 creates lack of community 6/24/2023 3:57 PM
44 Drug Trafficking G/23/2023 7:29 PM
12 Loss of Neighborhood 6/23/2023 7:24 PM
13 Driving around like an ass home in an unfamiliar neighborhood full of smail children who 6/23/2023 6:05 PM
_ actually play outside.
14 These are bias questions to skew peoples perceptions. Homeowners who rent do soina 6/23/2023 10:30 AM
responsible manner because its their home they are renting out and they care what happens on
their property.
15 “Pethaps a tule you have to live ina property for a certain amount of time first 6/22/2023 10: 41 PM
16 High # of children in the area, speeding cars an roads with obstructed views. Uncomfortable 6/22/2023 3: 07 PM
not knowing renters and have young children, with constant strangers from out of town.
1? Recent renters in years past | have returned to commit crime in n the area 6122/2023 2:07 PM
18 “Many of these can also be issues for tong: -term rentals ~ 61222023 12: 09 PM
19 Bring down the value of the houses near the short term rentals, "72212024 11:10 AM
20 Different people coming and going every day. These are not usually vacationing but staying a 6/22/2023 11:06 AM
night or two and tuming our neighborhood into motels. Buyers place extrodinary high bids on
small homes outbidding potential families to turn a profit. Very high profits! The dynamic of our
neighborhood has changed from caring friends to strangers susrounding us. Children used to
play tagether and grow up together. If there is a problem we don't know the owners and are told
we should call police. So we are called upon to handle problems for the owners when they
occur.
21 Short term rentals push housing prices out of the range of working families. We already have a 6/22/2023 10:37 AM
shortage of housing (EB new hires). These rentals do not add to our community and can
impact not only quality of life for permanent residents but also impact attendance and funding
af our schools. Additionally the town should be aware of the purchase of homes by
corporations. We should want familles/people owning in our town, NOT corporate entities.
22 _ Speeding cars when children riding bikes or waiking animals on street 6/22/2028 10: 18 AM
23 Short term rentals prevent possible full time residents fram obtaining housing i in Waterford. 6/22/2023 7: 22 AM
24 Liability exposure for neighborhood associations 6/21/2023 9:49 AM
25 Noise is the big issues. | don't want to infringe on people rights and what they do with their 6/21/2023 8:54 AM
property but there should be harsh fines if there are any noise/ part complaints.
26 DJs have been brought into the Airbnb next to my home with ridiculous levels of loud music at 6/20/2023 7:58 PM
night and up to 60 people at the hause dancing outside . Many neighbors called police on at
least 3'summer nights in 2022
27 "Short term renters seem to need to make lots of noise and play joud music. 6/20/2023 6:58 PM
28 Changes the whole feeling of family friendly in the community 6/13/2023 9:17 PM
29 Na longer residential neighborhood 6/11/2023 7:02 PM
30 House being rented does not have sprinklers/fire doors 6/11/2023 3:40 PM
31 “Based an other towns that have allowed ar not restricted rental properties 6/24/2023 11:15 AM

Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
32
Not following beach rules or association rules
6/11/2023 8:18 AM
33
These are non issues .
6/10/2023 11:33 PM
34
There must be regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of the permanent residents.
Short term or vacation renters don't have to think about the consequences of their mis-use.
Make strict requlations and charge the renters a hefty fee (on top of the taxes).
5/26/2023 11:42 AM
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
Q9 How would (or do) you feel about having a short term rental property or
properties in your neighborhood?
Answered: 450 = Skipped: 7
100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
1 do not have any 1am somewhat Jam very
concerns. uncomfortable, uncomfortable.
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES.
| do not have any concerns. 37% 167
1 am somewhat uncomfortable. 26% 119
| am very uncomfortable. 36% 164
FOTAL. 
450
# COMMENTS: DATE.
lt depends on what they are being used for. 
8/20/2023 9:20 AM
2 There has been 1 minor inident in a short term rental property in my neighborhood 8/19/2023 7:18 PM
neighborhood.
3 Depends on the house, and how many people would be there. 8/19/2023 6:40 PM
4 have sent multiple people away from the short term rental in my neighborhood because 8/19/2023 6:17 PM
scammers posted it as a long term rental using the photos, reviews and comments from the
short term rental site. People have knocked on my door inquiring about the rental and if | know
the owners because they are about to pay a security deposit or application fee. Others | have
seen waiting for the “owners” to show up and hanging out in the driveway, | was able to save
the last man that showed up a 90 dollar application fee by assuring him the place was not a
long term rental.
5 Unknown people in and out of a residence pases a risk to neighboring children. 8/19/2023 12:55 PM
6 Removes neighbors from a neighborhood. 8/19/2023 11:03 AM
7 See comment above 8/19/2023 10:30 AM
8 Waterford is a great place to raise a family! What ordinances are enforceable that will help to 8/19/2023 6:43 AM
curtail noise, traffic, trash etc... that will allow a neighborhood to maintain its quality and
character! Since, these short term rentals are businesses are they licensed, insured, and are
following the date and federal tax code! is Ledge Light Health District Licensing them as they
do with restaurants & other businesses???
9 Waterford is a great place to raise a family! What ordinances are enforceable that will help to 8/19/2023 6:42 AM
curtail noise, traffic, trash etc... that will allow a neighborhood ta maintain its quality and
23/53

Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
character! Since, these shart term rentals are businesses are they licensed, insured, and are
following the date and federal tax code! Is Ledge Light Health District Licensing them as they
do with restaurants & other businesses???
10 Assuming that | am understanding the intent of this question correctly, and it is asking about 8/2/2023 6:36 PM
safety and noise/party concerns, then no. | have no concerns.
4 Already have seasonai rentals in the area 7/29/2023 10:53 PM
12 Other than a loud party house, | have no problem with a nearby ABB 7127/2023 §:12 PM
13 There isn't enough affordable housing in Waterford as it is. If houses are sold to peaple who's 7/27/2023 3:57 PM
intent is short term rentals that only makes the problem worse. There should be a certain %
dedicated for short term. They can be good for local businesses but like anything to much can
also be bad.
44 | don't mind STRs since they are part of the culture of a coastal New England town. fam more —-7/27/2023 8:12 AM
concemed about corporate STRs taking residential real estate out of the inventory of homes
for residents.
15 There is actually ¢one Fight | next door to me and | e had to call police for fighting Inoise 7126/2023 9:39 PM
16 The issue of noise after 10 pm would be ‘of concem 7/26/2023 8:57 PM
17 There are 3 of them in the neighborhood and no problems from any of them. They are better 7/26/2023 4:33 PM
than some of the neughbors.
18 It's necessary income for some people 7/26/2023 3:51 PM
19 Waterford Woods has ‘short tem rentals 7126/2023 3:26 PM
20 | have a short term rental directly across the street. 7/26/2023 10:06 AM
21 I don't mind short term rentals as long as they respect the neighbors and use it for quiet 7/26/2023 10:06 AM
enjoyment
22 | think the ones that are run well (usually a local owner, live-in owner) are not a huge issue. 7426/2023 7:51 AM
Occasional noise/traffic/parking/trash issues to be expected and deait with. Ones that are run
poorly persistently have these problems. | also fee! people should be able to do what they want
with their homes and money so long as it does not detract from the lives of others. There is no
reason for an outright ban on these, but some sort of system where a homeowner can be fined
or otherwise incentivized to “do the right thing” is important. Persistent vialation shouldn’t be
tolerated. Consider altering the noise ordinance accordingly.
23 Short term rental has the strong potential to de-value nearby properties. 7/24/2023 6:41 AM
24 Short term rentals can decrease property values and create noise and garbage issues. Most 7/13/2023 3:12 PM
Concerning: strangers in your neighbarhaad while yau and your kids are enjoying yaur property.
25 Noank decided none allowed, Waterford can do the same 7/12/2023 11:00 PM
26 Shorter term rental are more of concern 7/2/2023 10:26 AM
27 The town should stay out of it- homeowners have a right to do what they want with their home 7/1/2023 6:53 PM
28 t want to know my neighbors, | don't want to live next to a hotel. 7/1/2023 4:48 PM
29 | dont have any short term rentals in my neighborhood that | am aware of. 6/30/2023 11:19 PM
30 Short term rentals are lodging facilities, like hotels and motels, which typically rent to 6/30/2023 4:41 PM
transients for a short period ot time.
31 ‘short term renters. are looking to have : a 2 vacation/good time, and treat the rental and its 6/30/2023 3:10 PM
neighborhood as a party house, there solely for their pleasure this is in conflict with permanent
residents who have to get up for work in the morming, and have to deal with picking up the
empties in the morning from their lawn, the noise at night, and the speeding/engines
zooming/cars parked Slacking your driveway —
32 reasonable guidelines are needed 6/30/2023 1:59 PM
33 If they do the correct backgraund checks. 6/27/2023 9:43 AM
24/53

Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
are very few people who rent in the area. Our town has a short rental season and generally
people do not rent here unless they have a personal connection to the area. This isn't a
tourism town like that of Old Saybrook or even Old Lyme. Not saying that it couldn't be, we
have a lot of great potential, but trying to make it out that homeowners shouldn't be renting out
their homes that they have responsibility for is overreaching of government and unnecessary.
People who rent their homes retain any and ail of the risk. Any person who rents the property
are subject to the same rule of jaw that any other person living in town has. if they act
irresponsibly ie being loud or having a party, the cops would be called just the same as any
other resident.
34 Nothing good comes from short term rentals beyond the cash to the owners 6/26/2023 1:25 PM
35 We have a STR that can steep 16 people in beds with raom for many more. There are often 2 6/26/2023 1:08 PM
or more cars at this place. it feels unsafe. We have a hotel in a residential neighborhood that
our city gavernment is ignoring.
36 We have narrow streets and if there are @ too many ¢ cars 5 parked in front of a house it's very 6/26/2023 10:51 AM
awkward to get past these cars. There are already some houses that seem to be short term
rentals in our neighborhood.
37 Giant pool parties with drinking and other non-family activities. 6/26/2023 9:03 AM
38 At the moment, | do not feel like short term rentals are a problem. However, 1 am concerned 6/26/2023 8:55 AM
about what could potentially happen in the future. | would be in favor of some types of
limitations/restrictions.
39 Assumes the Town does a correct job i in Policing ; and ‘egulating STRs. 6/26/2023 8:37 AM
40 Already have 3 of them with no problems. 6/26/2023 6:24 AM
AL It's impossible to keep kids safe if unknown people can come in and out and have a piace to 6/25/2023 4:43 PM
stay.
42 tam uncomfortable with residential housing being used primarily as a short term rental. Rental 6/25/2023 7:36 AM
for minimum of one year is fine. Occasionally renting for short terms is okay too. But do not
want a “hotel” in a residential neighborhood.
43 For me it's ‘about the speed of drivers on our road, which isn't limited to renters but certainly is 6/24/2023 7:32 PM
a concern given the number of children in this neighborhood.
44 Our beach community is smail, quiet, and all of the residents and seasonal renters are very 6/24/2023 6:21 PM
responsible, and respectful. Although the previous questions may be a concem in some areas
of Waterford, |, and most, if not all of the owners rent to families that are respectful of the
homes, and the neighborhood. These are not transient renters, but families that return year to
year. it is not a ‘tourist’ destination with crowds of rowdy vacationers. It is a small beach
community with returning renters that does not warrant regulation.
45 Unless the house is owner occupied and are just renting a room to a business person, 6/23/2023 11:33 PM
46 | feel short term rentals ruin neighborhoods and the quality of life for the residents. 6/23/2023 9:24 PM
47 It would also decrease property values, which | doubt the town would take into consideration 6/23/2023 7:29 PM
for tax purposes.
48 Neighborhoods are the fabric ofa community. ‘So called Hotels should be in commercial zones. 6/23/2023 7:24 PM
49 If | wanted to live next to a ‘hotel, | would have moved next to one. The one on Park Drive can 6/23/2023 6:05 PM
accommodate more than 18 peopie-strangers to us. The residents next to the house pay
nearly $32K in taxes, The adjacent homes pay an average of $18K or more a year to the town.
This is a small beach community where people pay some of the highest taxes in town enjoy
privacy and have a sense of security.
50 Worried about parties. 6/23/2023 5:42 PM
$1 Pleasure Beach area has been a long-standing area for summer rentals. It has always worked 6/23/2023 4:23 PM
fine for this area.
52 1 dont even like the people in the one long term rental on our street. Lots of noise, loud parties, 6/23/2023 10:33 AM
lots of cars parked in the street every weekend. Landlord doesnt care.
53 This survey is clearly skewed to show the bias against renting, not the positive aspects. Their 6/23/2023 10:30 AM
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
It's great for our local community}tt 6/23/2028 9:27 AM
‘Pleasure Beach has always had short term rentals because of the beach and many of the
houses were not suitable for winter living.
6/23/2023 8:40 AM
Why no positive answer? There is one in our neighborhood and it is positive. It has allowed the 6/23/2023 1:18 AM
hause to be restored.
Short term beach rentals have been a norm for decades. Families rent yearly. 6/23/2023 1:10 AM
We have an short term rental across the street and a six month off season rental next door.
Zero concerns,
6/22/2023 10:42 PM
But | have had no issues with the short term Tentals in my neighborhood. * 62212023 10: 40 Pi
Unsure. | think there might a be at least one str on our street. _ 6/22/2023 10: 39 PM
For all the reasons above and that residential communities should not be subject to constant
transient commercial business.
6/22/2023 10:44 PM
ifiveina beach community many people rent their property it’s very selective and family 6/22/2023 10:11 PM
friendly
Unknown cars coming and going at all hours. Renters not knowing the actual rental address 6/22/2023 9:25 PM
and mistaking my house for the rental at 2-3AM (has happened multiple times)
Rental property owners within our neighborhood attempted to change Waterford zoning 6/22/2023 9:07 PM
regulations years back but faced significant push back from neighbors. They withdrew their
request, but continued to operate as planned without town enforcements. The farge residence /
property has active advertisements and constant renters year round.
We have seen crime rise on Shore Road and the Jordan Cove out to the point pasted Grainier
Woods Road in recent years since short term rentals have been increasing. Car break ins’,
vandalism, brazen car theit. Peapie tent out these short term rentals and the renters return
after casing out the neighborhoods and return to do crime at their convenience, Out of towners
returning to do crime.
6/22/2023 7:07 PM
Not knowing the history of a renter. Especially if it's done ir in an unsecure ra platform, other ‘than 6/22/2023 4:34 PM
air B&B.
“assuming the the owner does their due diligence in screening who will be renting their property. 6/22/2023 4:17 PM
With no guardrails currently in place very uncomfortable 6/22/2023 2:37 PM
There is one in aur neighborhood and at times occupied by a large group. Sometimes louder 6/22/2023 2:20 PM
than average music and noise from the pool area.
1 think homeowners should be allowed to rent their home short term BUT there needs to he 6/22/2023 2:05 PM
guidelines/rules,..especially if owner not on premises. Our neighborhood is predominantly
elderly and/or single women. We have 3 families with small children. Mix of dogs and cats.
We pian to rent our home of 20 years only during the summer 6/22/2023 1:41 PM
| wouldnt want random people constantly in and out of a home next to the place where my 6/22/2023 1:19 PM
family is. | have young children.
6/22/2023 12:54 PM
6/22/2023 12 45 PM
22/2028 12:18 PM
"6122/2023 12: 9 PM
6/22/2023 ‘Un 57 AM
6/22/2023 11:48 AM
79
26/53
73 _ Already enough noise in the area.
74 [rent properties in Florida and | take very good care of the property I rent.
75 | have one Nearby and it's never been a problem
76 How does the town regulate * "party" houses when the participants are related parties?
77 tt’ sa family oriented neighborhood. Lots of kids and family walk and ride along the street, We
are not clase the casino or beach so it does not make sense to have short term rental in This
neighborhood
7 ('m already uncomfortable with residents parking on the street. Some never move their cars for
months.
We have them already
6/22/2023 11:48 AM

Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
80 As long as the house is maintained, externally, and there are no late parties, | have no issue 6/22/2023 11:21 AM
with it. | would love to see Waterford adopt a light law to ensure that properties are maintained
no matter what they are used for.
81 Our home has several short term rentals surrounding it. We feel like its turned into motels 6/22/2023 11:06 AM
instead of family owned homes. They pay no taxes for their businesses. Many surrounding
towns have eliminated Short term rentals. Area motels are losing business, The dynamic of
our once friendly neighborhood has changed. Homeowners are not responsible for attracting
visitors to our town.
82 | don't think the town should try to control what people do with their properties. If tenants are 6/22/2023 10:56 AM
fespectful and abiding by the laws the fact that the rental duration is short term is not
problematic.
83 It wouldn't be allowed because there’s an HOA tule against it 6/22/2023 10:31 AM
84 My street is already dealing with speed issues and thru way traffic. 6/22/2028 10:26 AM
85 } ike the owner must occupy ‘the same residence. ‘and think that would solve z a 2 lot of the 6/22/2023 10:08 AM
issues. Although | am not sure how that would be enforced.
86 One bad appie. There's always one bad apple. 99% of the peapie doing a short terms are 6/22/2023 10:06 AM
respectful, and care, but it only takes one. And there's next to na way to stop them, fine them,
or remave them. Set ail the rules yau like, they just don't care. So the added burden falls on
everyone, The neighbors, the police, even the homeowner, everyone but the one’s causing the
trouble, and for the most part the laws are on their side, and when they're not are you going to
arrest them? We don't arrest or prosecute real crooks now,
87 { have smail children and our street is already used as a cut through with ‘extremely high 6/22/2023 10:06 AM
speeds witnessed. | would be concerned about additional traffic and type/background of
renters.
88 The house that | am currently renting are used to five in next to short term rentals. They were 6/22/2023 10:03 AM
all wonderful.
89 Totally against short terms, cause too many problems 6/22/2023 10: 00 AN
90 Owners should be responsible for their property. We already have laws in place for noise, 6/22/2023 8:32 AM
trash, parking, etc.
91 The high tum over and not knowing who is next to me and my kids is conceming. It also takes 6/22/2023 8:27 AM
away the Community feel when properties are being used for shart term rentais.
92 Need to have firm house rules 6/22/2023 8:20 AM
93 As long as it's neighborly, tuse rentals when | travel sand it's a good alternative to hotels. 6/22/2023 v: 50 AM
94 Short term housing takes away from future Waterford residents. Waterford lacks affordable 6/22/2023 7: 22 AM
hausing, rentals, etc. Residents in the town of Waterford complain about traffic, allowing short
term rentals would only worsen the situation.
95 There is one right next door to me and there has only been one incident of late night noise 6/22/2023 6:58 AM
96 Some neighborhoods are organized as neighborhood associations with the properties 6/21/2023 9:49 AM
possessing deeded water rights. Liability exposure for these associations increases when you
have short term tenants. Liability insurance is very expensive and expanding the exposure
puts the association at risk of losing that liability insurance coverage and/or increased rates.
97 We have one currently in the calony and there have been parties thrown at it. | Know wouldn't ‘6/21/2023 8:54 AM
want one next door to me.
98 The home next to mine was converted to an Aironb with 7 beds . Advertises for large groups . 6/20/2023 7:58 PM
Owner never there . Lives in NYC and has a property manager manage . It is no more than a
hotel Operated with impunity ina residential neighborhood that would not allow a hotel.
99 The zoning regulations are > nat being enforced by town officialsilt 6/20/2023 6:58 PM
100 | dont mind if the quests :are quiet. That's the bottom line to be a human being - respect. 6/20/2023 4:07 PM
104 Short term rental (especially those solely used for short term rental purpose} in a resdiential 6/20/2023 2:06 PM
neighborhood changes the character of the neighborhood (peace, safety, cordiality). make a
271/53

Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
neibhorhood less desirable for residents, and reduces property value in the long term.
102
103
rm not 100% against it, but there should be a limit to the number of rentals allowed and the
number of people the rental can host. Having a few visitors in a neighborhood is fine but having
large groups of people is disruptive to residents who chose to buy in a residential area.
6/19/2023 12:40 PM
The noise, traffic, concern for safety, changes the whole neighborhood with strangers partying,
loud music, yelling, cheering. This should not be allowed in a neighborhoad where people strive
to enjoy peace and quiet, and the beauty of nature every day,
6/13/2023 9:17 PM
104
if the owner is not local, then how do we make them responsible, Renters may not respect
amenities of the neighborhood or follow the rules of the HOA.
6/13/2023 7:49 PM
105
The house at 9 ‘Waterview Drive is listed on airbnb as a large party house. It has 6-7 bedrooms
and an indoar and outdoor pool and gym. They charge $2000-$2500 per night so large groups
come at a time, No one lives there during the week and the owner lives in New York. It’s
usually rented on the weekends but occasionally mid week as well. The police have been
called several times for joud music and {oud people yelling around the pool that disrupts the
entire neighborhood. They have no consideration for the neighbors. Sometimes they bring 3
foot speakers that booms the music all over the neighborhood and you can feel it booming in
your chest. They also hired DJs. The awner was contacted by the town, and nothing changed.
Sometimes at the parties they invite local people and it swells from 20 people to like 50 ar
more. The neighbors in this area of Twin Lakes signed a petition saying that this house is a
nuisance. 49 people signed the petition. It was presented at a town meeting to the previous
town planner and the first selectman. They should have a copy of the booklet { presented at a
town meeting with pictures of garhage and many cars as well as emails from the town te Ted
Olynciw who is our RTM rep. Some neighbors attended the Town meeting and presented this
information to them. We feel that the airbnb at § Waterview Drive is operating as a hotel due to
the number of guests they have at one time in violation of zoning laws in the town, Clearly,
these people are not related to each other. This hotel does not belong at the end of a quiet
residential street, with children playing in the street, or on their driveways. we feel there’s a
danger to these children from cars speeding up and down the street going to the Airbnb, it's
being used strictly as an Airbnb business and not as a home in violation of zoning. We also
included in the packet a restrictive covenant, stating that no kind of nuisance or noise would
be allowed around the lake. They are in violation of that as well. They also have garbage
spilling out of the garbage bins onto the lawn, creating a unhealthy situation if animals are
attracted ta the garbage to eat it. They leave their garbage bins at the end of the rue driveway
which is unsightly. | have grandchildren who play on my lawn and | wouldn't want them to get
bitten by one of the animals that could be attracted to the garbage. In every way, it's a
nuisance, and we would like it shut down. Please look at the detailed information in the packet
that was submitted last year at a town meeting, This is not like someone renting out a
bedroom in their home. It is hotel operating in a quiet, residential neighborhood where it doesn't
belong. The people who come have no consideration for the neighbors. Airbnb states on their
website that no large party should be allowed. So they're in violation of that as well. Please do
something!
6/13/2023 6:57 PM
106
This has caused use ‘to seriously consider moving.
6/12/2023 6:32 PM
4107
Last year we had a very nice single family home that had many many viewers and rmultiple
offers from families. it was sald to two young men professionals fram fairtield county who are
using it as a rental.
6/12/2023 10:36 AM
108
There Is a lack of control and oversight for the larger homes that rent to large groups of people.
It places the burden on the full time resident and our local police to take care of the problems
that result from the larger groups. | am not too sure that Waterford sees any economic benefit
from these rentais,
6/12/2023 9:37 AM
109
There is one down the street from us. The only problem we have seen is speeding down
neighborhood streets by out of state plated cars. Lots of blind carners in our neighborhood.
Lots of walkers and kids biking.
6/12/2023 9:18 AM
110
| may get to meet neighbors
6/11/2023 8:19 PM
11
Several parties last year negatively impacted my neighbors next door to the property as far as
several blocks away.
6/11/2023 3:10 PM
112
We live here because we know, like and trust our neighbors.
6/11/2023 11:15 AM
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
113 We are lasing our neighbors and neighborhoods which is why Waterford is such a great place 6/11/2023 9:03 AM
to live.
114 This brings many people into our neighborhood that are unknown, posing a risk to my young 6/11/2023 8:52 AM
children.
115 There have been huge groups that trash the beach. Behavior, dress, language not family 6/11/2023 8:18 AM
appropriate.
116 Residential zoned areas should remain strictly residential. If folks want to open and operate a 6/11/2023 1:24 AM
hotel establishment then they should do so in proper commercially zoned areas. Shart-term
rentals should not be allowed allowed to operate in our tawn.
117 town and am proficient with firearms 6/10/2023 11:33 PM
118 | have no concerns about a family of 5 or 6 renting a short term rental but with larger groups it 6/10/2023 7:29 PM
destroys the quiet environment of the neighborhood which consists of single family homes.
119 Also check out other towns who are having problems with short terms. 5/26/2023 11:42 AM
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
Q10 How important are the following to consider?
Answered: 446 = Skipped: 11
100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
Attracting Income Positive Help residents
visitors to generation for economic impact afford to keep
Waterford hameowner to the Town /maintain
Waterford hames
2 Not import... @ Somewhat i... Very import...
NOT. SOMEWHAT VERY: TOTAL
IMPORTANT. IMPORTANT. IMPORTANT.
Attracting visitors to Waterford 36.28% 41.04% 22.68%
160 181 100 441
Income generation for homeowner 33.11% 39.19% 27.70%
147 174 123 444
Positive economic impact to the Town 25.68% 40.32% 34.01% 7
144 179 151 444
Help residents afford to keep /maintain Waterford 18.22% 34.17% 47,61%
homes 80 150 209 439
# OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY) DATE
Wouldn't the data center help with economic impact? Won't the new park attack people? Can't 8/21/2023 4:50 AM
the new apartments being built everywhere have an allocated number of units to “rent out”?
That renting short term does not have a positive economic value to the town, it does the
owner, but not the town.
8/20/2023 8:58 PM
There is a difference between a person/family renting a property to help raise their family for a
better life than vacationers who are renting in order to have fun at the expense of others!
Waterford must find a balanced approach to this challenging issue!
8/19/2023 6:43 AM
There is a difference between a person/family renting a property to help raise their family for a
better life than vacationers who are renting in order to have fun at the expense of others!
Waterford must find a balanced approach to this challenging issue!
8/19/2023 6:42 AM
This issue, for me, is solely about the impact on housing availability/affordability. STRs make
it harder for people to buy and continue to afford homes in this community. All of the other
issues, | do not see as important or even as being exclusive to STRs (noise, speeding cars,
trash, etc). | beg this committee to recommend harsh restrictions on such properties in
Waterford,
8/2/2023 6:36 PM
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
o
_They should have a lang term rental to help with expenses. 7/27/2023 6:57 AM
Important for residents to maintain and keep homes but most of these short term rentals are 7/26/2023 10:06 AM
nat the owners primary residence, they are income generating properties.
~
8 it is important for Waterford residents to maintain their hames, however, to use residence as a 7/26/2023 10:06 AM
business need some very strict guidelines and ordinances in place to protect the neighborhood
9 1 wonder what ‘fraction of STR's are run by people “struggling” to keep their homes (affordably). 7/26/2023 7:51 AM
My guess is not many and that this is a side hustle/business for many. So not sure some of
the questions here are relevant. But it is important that people are free to da as they wish if it
_ does not impact others adversely.
10 “Waterford is a residential community, and as such, has no need to promote tourism. We ‘have 7/24/2023 6:41 AM
Harkness Park as a state park that brings people to the shore...we do NOT need added traffic,
noise, and increased calls to our police dept. about unruly short-term leasers. Businesses
bring positive impact to the Town, not short-term rentals.
a1 | believe Waterford should not allow term rentals- money isn’t everything and to be duped into 7/12/2023 11:00 PM
_that line of thinking on the part of the town is dangerous and degrading fo our neighbarhoads
12 _ Zero regutation should be cansidered- we need less government not more 7/1/2023 6:53 PM
commercial BUSINESS which has no place ina RESIDENTIAL/NON-BUSINESS zane.
13 ” Short term rentals provide short- duration ladging to non-permanent people and function asa 6/30/2023 4:41 PM
14 existing homeowners ‘have tights, too ‘not just the ones making money from air b&b and 6/30/2023 3:10 PM
muitiple properties, not just the partiers
15 Military Families on deployment, who wish to return to the community, this is a valuable tool 6/28/2023 2:14 PM
for preparing for Speration from service.
16 i people can't “keep up their homes they should sail to someone e who can 6/26/2023 1:25 PM
17 “These questions are misleading, Answering witi the focus on STRS is different than answering 6/26/2023 1:08 PM
them with a desire to help our community and its residents. Certainly skewing the questions to
favor STRs so one does not look in favor of helping Waterford residents if they answer in the
18 | would prefer that peopie know who they are renting to, like friends and/or family. That way 6/26/2023 10:51 AM
_ they can hoid their renters accountable.
19 | don’t believe that the hameowners rent solely for income. Tr rent when r am not occupying the 6/24/2023 6:21 PM
house to keep it occupied by responsible families and couples. | rent to relatives, and families
that enjoy the quiet beach community. | do receive some income, but it is not necessary for
_me to have that income to continue ownership of the house.
uo.
20 “Seniors on fixed income may have to consider ‘the extra income with ail prices and taxes going 6/23/2023 11:33 PM
24 Short term rentals are not appropriate ways for people to afford to keep their homes. 6/23/2023 8:42 PM
22 People renting Air B&Bs are here on vacation. However, other than the town beach (not exactly 6/23/2023 7:29 PM
a huge money maker), there are no “attractions” IN Waterford that would draw tourists,
Therefore, the renter will NOT be here to spend money in town, which eliminates any positive
economic impact. Other than to party, or as a launch pad to visit other local towns (Niantic) or
attractions (casinos) there is no reason to stay here. There will be NO positive impact to our
town, Ask Montville and Ledyard residents about the "positive impact" the casinos had on their
towns. Lots of extra visitors!
23 ‘Many permanent residents of waterford started as renters, fell i in n love with the town and 6/23/2023 4:23 PM
decided to buy homes here, As a owner of a rental home, | feel it's the best way to advertise
the area,
24 “There are quite a few homeowners that prefer to rent their homes in order to keep the home i in 6/23/2023 10:30 AM
their family. They are subject to the same laws and taxes as any other resident. The town
should not be focusing on taking away property owners rights and the rights of individuals.
25 Uncontrolled short term rental properties will be detrimental to non rental homeowners to 6/23/2023 9:30 AM
maintain home values.
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Waterford Short Term Rental Community Survey
26 | want to know the updates but do not want to give out my email. Please post on facebook or 6/23/2023 8:40 AM
the Waterford beach FB page. | believe a great many of the people who do short term rentals
_live in the PB area. could not enter this below
27 ~ Supplement social security 6/23/2023 5 51 AM
28 Our community is stable 6/28/2023 L 10 AM
29
Ail summer we have non residents driving like maniacs through our neighborhood posing a risk
to the aduits and children that walk and play here. All rentals should have to be 1 year or
longer.
Our neighbors who rent their properties short term o own n them ‘and al are re always checking in to 6/22/2023 10: 40 PM
make sure there are no issues. One of them lives next door to his rentals. The other gave us
their number so we can n call at any time if there are issues.
30 “These questions ai are not important in regards to short term renting your house 6/22/2023 9:27 PM
31 “My neighborhood is not zoned as a cammercial mote! or hatel area. As such my neighbor 6/22/2023 9:25 PM
should nat be allowed to rent short term or air BnB her property to 3 families at one time and
not even be at the property herself to deal with any issues that arise.
32 Maintaining historically significant areas, maintaining safe neighborhoods 6/22/2023 9:07 PM
33 This is non-taxable