A proposed ordinance regulating short-term rentals (STRs) was again discussed by the Midway City Council Monday. The council has until May 5 to adopt changes or accept the ordinance “as is.”

Mayor Stacy Thurman said Midway’s approach to regulating STRs should not “get too far away” from ordinances that are adopted by Versailles City Council and Woodford Fiscal Court. She also stressed there are unique aspects of Midway that will likely need to be addressed given its size and large R-2 (residential) zoning district.

Councilmember Sara Hicks agreed, and pointed out the problems Midway encountered when it adopted an ordinance that diverged with Versailles and the county on animal control.

Councilmember Patrick Hall discussed his research on how surrounding communities are regulating bed and breakfasts and STRs. He suggested Midway, using Georgetown as an example, require that additional information be provided by an applicant to better help the city obtain information from AirBNB and VRBO on the total number of STRs operating in the city, which will aid in ensuring all are licensed.

Thurman said she would like to have one more council meeting with Planning Director Steve Hunter and City Attorney Sharon Gold so they can answer questions and provide guidance. That will also allow councilmember Logan Nance, who was absent, to be present for that in-depth discussion. Thurman said she will call a special meeting in mid-April for the council to focus on the B&B and STR ordinances before final action is taken.

Voting information

Woodford County Clerk Sandy Jones provided information and dates on the upcoming election. The absentee voter portal opens April 1 and will close April 18. Early voting will be open at the courthouse in Versailles on May 11 from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday, May 12, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, May 13, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Waterline replacement

Thurman told the council and those watching the meeting online that the water would be shut off in a part of town on March 17 for waterline replacement work.

Remembrance Day

Thurman said there would be a community-wide Remembrance Day in conjunction with local churches on March 26 at 3 p.m. at Walter Bradley Park. This will give residents the opportunity to mourn and celebrate the lives of loved ones who were lost during the pandemic, she said.

Northside congratulations

Students on Northside Elementary School’s quick-recall and future problem solving teams received congratulations from Thurman and council members for their success at the regional Governor’s Cup academic team tournament.