ASHWAUBENON, WI (WTAQ) – After months of debate, Ashwaubenon has passed a new ordinance restricting the number of properties that can be rented on a short-term basis.
The decision from Ashwaubenon’s village board received a round of applause from neighbors in the area who’ve been against short-term rentals and so called ‘Packers party houses.’
The new ordinance creates a new overlay district near Lambeau Field. Only properties inside the district can apply for a permit to rent their home out for short periods of times, like game day weekends.
Only 22 properties are within the new district. 18 of the properties are along Stadium Drive and 4 properties are along Blue Ridge Drive.
The Stadium Drive area already has a number of party homes and properties with short-term rental permits.
Village President Mike Aubinger says the four homes on Blue Ridge were included in the ordinance because they are likely to be impacted with the development of the Titletown District.
There is a fear those homes might not be able to sell unless there is an option for them to become short-term rentals or party homes.
The properties in the overlay district must still apply for short-term rental permits. The permits come with a number of requirments including safety and health inspections.
While many neighbors in the Lambeau area saw Monday evening’s decision as a victory, Danny Goodrich still has concerns.
“It’s ok now. What happens in a month from now when someone says the person next to them wants a permit or the person next to them wants a permit, then mine is the next one down.”
Village trustee Ken Bukowski says laying down regulations is necessary.
“We’re at a point where our schools don’t have enough children in them. We need families to move in and these homes are being bought for weekend use and that shouldn’t happen.”
No one at the meeting spoke in favor of party homes or short-term rentals.
