By Rebecca Wallis
NEWBERG, OR – December 4, 2024
The City of Newberg is preparing to update its regulations for Vacation Rental Homes, also known as Short-Term Rentals, for the first time in more than a decade. With these properties growing in popularity, city officials aim to craft policies that balance the benefits of tourism with the needs of the community. To ensure residents have a voice in the process, the city is hosting its final public engagement event tonight.
Upcoming Opportunity for Input
Virtual Open House
Date: December 4, 2024
Time: 6:00–7:30 PM
Platform: Online
For more information, visit bit.ly/vrhrnewberg24.
Why the Update?
Vacation rentals are becoming a larger presence in Newberg, with 74 active rentals reported. Applications for new rentals have significantly increased in recent years. While these properties boost tourism and local businesses, they also present challenges, such as maintaining neighborhood character and addressing housing concerns.
Recognizing these issues, the City Council initiated a review in 2023. This included assembling an Ad Hoc Committee, conducting in-depth research, and considering input from various stakeholders. The findings highlighted a need for clearer guidelines and improved oversight.
What Changes Are Under Consideration?
The city is exploring several updates to manage short-term rentals responsibly. Proposals include capping the number of rentals to 2% of city households—roughly 184 properties. Additionally, streamlining the approval process for residential areas and introducing advanced compliance measures, such as tax collection requirements and tools for monitoring operations, are on the table.
By addressing these areas, the city hopes to create a framework that encourages responsible tourism while protecting the interests of local residents.
Project Timeline as provided on the City of Newberg website:
Task 1: Project Initiation
- Completed October 2024
- Joint Work Session of the City Council & Planning Commission: Scheduled for October 28th, 2024. Meeting details available online at newbergoregon.gov/citycouncil/page/joint-meeting-city-council-and-planning-commission.
Task 2: Community Engagement (August – December 2024)
- Community Listening Session with City Council (Completed): Meeting recording and minutes are available online at newbergoregon.gov/citycouncil/page/city-council-short-term-rentals-policy-listening-session
- In-Person Community Open House (Completed): Held on November 20, 2024, at the Newberg Public Library.
- In-Person Vacation Rental Operator Forum (Completed): Held on December 3, 2024, at the Newberg Public Library.
- Virtual Community Open House (Tonight): Scheduled for December 4, 2024, online from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Deliverable: Community Engagement Summary Report
Task 3: Policy Concept Development (December 2024 – January 2025)
- City Council Work Session
- Deliverable: Concept Policy Outcomes Report
Task 4: Planning Commission Review (January – April 2025)
- Planning Commission Work Sessions and Hearing
- Deliverables: Draft Development Code Amendment and Planning Commission Resolution
Task 5: City Council Review & Adoption (April – May 2025)
- City Council Work Session and Adoption Hearing(s)
- Deliverable: Ordinance for Updated Vacation Rental Regulations
Task 6: Post-Adoption Activities (To be determined)
Task 7: Operational Change Management (Ongoing, September 2024 – June 2025)
- Vacation Rental Software Procurement
- Business License Updates
This is your opportunity to influence the future of short-term rentals in Newberg. Join the discussion tonight and help ensure the city’s policies reflect the values and priorities of its community.
Photo Credit: Yamhill County News File
Discover more from Yamhill County News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
