Lorna Cherot Littleway is reporting for The Columbia Paper two proposed local laws have been approved by the Hillsdale Short-Term Rental Task Force. The first, Local Law #1, seeks to regulate short-term rentals, more commonly known as Airbnbs, after the company of the same name. Under the proposed new regulations, short-term rentals would be considered similar to commercial lodging establishments like motels, and bed and breakfast facilities. Owners of short-term rentals would be required to operate with an annual permit, costing $50, and the properties would also be subject to mandated periodic and impromptu inspections. Unregistered STR properties would be subject to a fine. All facilities would be required to have an owner, manager or authorized representative living within 20 miles of the property. Proposed Local Law #2 seeks to align the town’s zoning law definitions to conform with state standards. According to Hillsdale resident Craig Norton, the town’s thresholds for determining what a major project is, “are too small.” Both task force-approved local laws now go to the county Planning Board for review. Following that review, a public hearing will be held, after which the Hillsdale Town Board will vote on both measures. Read the full story in The Columbia Paper.