EAGLE HARBOR TOWNSHIP — The Eagle Harbor Township Board Thursday conducted a public hearing on a draft ordinance that has become controversial within the township and is raising concern in other townships in Keweenaw County. The hearing produced few supporters of the ordinance.

At issue is a draft of a Short Term Rental Ordinance that, if adopted, would restrict the number of short-term rentals in the township, as well as regulating those that already exist. The introductory statement at the top of Ordinance No. 2022-01, which was drafted on Jan. 27, 2022, states:

“The township wishes to preserve and maintain the residential community and participatory nature of Eagle Harbor Township, while balancing personal rights and responsibilities with community rights and responsibilities. It is the intent of the Eagle Harbor Township Short Term Rental Ordinance to make Short Term Rental activity permitted by this ordinance compatible with the existing and traditional residential uses made by resident owners and lessees.”

Township Supervisor Rich Probst said that the public hearing was optional but that the Board felt that it is important to receive input on the draft ordinance.