by Jackie Nunnery
HEATHSVILLE—Northumberland County Planning Commission members on Thursday, August 18, got an earful on short-term rentals and tent campsites.
During public comment, Sharla Pence spoke on behalf of the Chesapeake Beach Estates Civic Club (CBECC), which operates much like a homeowners association for the community. While the deeds to the civic club prohibit commercial enterprises, Pence said five short-term rentals had been established within the subdivision and despite informing homeowners that their short-term renters would not have access to CBECC common property, namely the community’s private beach, pavilion and club house, three homeowners continue to promote the amenities as part of the rental.
“Renters do not care about our subdivision, are not aware of our rules and do not follow them,” said Pence.
She asked the county to consider “prohibiting short-term rentals in residential zones” or only allow them on state maintained roads….
