SAUGATUCK TWP. Firefighters with the Saugatuck Township Fire District voted to form a union last year and are in the process of finalizing a collective-bargaining agreement with the Saugatuck Township Fire District Board and Fire Chief Greg Janik.
According to union president Capt. Mike Betts, the decision to unionize did not come from firefighters dissatisfaction with their pay or their employer.
Instead, Betts said, they primarily wanted to become an active part of the state and international firefighters unions, which provide resources and political advocacy on behalf of firefighters.
They also wanted to protect themselves, their benefits for the future, and to encourage retention of career firefighters in the department.
HOLLAND Legislation introduced in the Michigan House of Representatives would strip local governments ability to regulate short-term rentals in their communities.
House Bill 4722, introduced by Rep. Sarah Lightner, R-Springport, would amend the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act to allow short-term rentals, units where guests reside for not more than 30 days, to be zoned as residential-use without needing any special-use permits from the local planning commission.
Local units would still have authority to regulate short-term rentals in some scenarios, including if local noise and traffic ordinances are violated and if the number of occupants in a unit is more than permitted.
Short-term rentals have risen in prominence in recent years, as visitors and tourists can choose rentals on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo for weekend- or weeklong stays when visiting cities.
No blanket solution : Statewide group opposes bills on short-term renting
The two pieces of legislation had hearings last week and are expected to be up for voting tomorrow. Movement could start as soon as this week. Author: Keely Lovern Updated: 5:52 PM EDT May 24, 2021
MICHIGAN, USA 13 ON YOUR SIDE has been covering the housing market issues across West Michigan and across the state. Along the lakeshore, tourist destinations are now also finding it hard to compete with short-term rental properties.
Legislation that could have a major effect on these communities goes to a vote Tuesday, and some local leaders across the state are speaking out in opposition.