Carolina Beach residents voice concerns as town approves short-term rental recommendation at apartment complex

CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — After several hours of discussion, the Town of Carolina Beach approved a request to allow short-term rentals at an apartment complex, but not everyone is pleased with the decision.

Many residents left the meeting frustrated, arguing that short-term rentals at the complex could lead to more noise, increased trash and potential safety concerns.

More than a dozen residents of Proximity Carolina Beach spoke out against a proposal that would allow short-term rentals at the apartment complex.

“Do I want 25 units to be moving in and out, when I already see it every single day,” said one resident.

The residents attended a Planning and Zoning Board meeting to oppose a request from the property’s owners to modify its conditional zoning approval.

The proposed change would have allowed up to 10% of the development’s 250 residential units to be used as short-term rentals.

Residents, including Mike Mytych, said they were told during the development process that the units would not be used as short-term rentals.

“I think the short-term rental is not supported by the people that live there because it wasn’t in the original plans,” Mytych said.

With the apartment complex nearly fully leased, Mytych said some residents feel they are being misled. He also argued that Carolina Beach already has plenty of short-term rental options.

The Planning and Zoning Board ultimately approved the request with modifications.

Under the approved plan, up to 12 units can be used as short-term rentals, but each rental must be booked for at least 31 days.

Mytych said he remains disappointed with the decision and worries the rentals could put additional strain on the community.

“That means more crime, trash and more police force in that area, so there’s a greater strain on the community than some people realize,” Mytych said.

The proposed change does not mean short-term rentals have been finalized, the measure was approved only as a recommendation for Town Council to consider. Council members are expected to make a final decision at next month’s meeting.