The Norcross City Council heard from numerous residents Tuesday evening concerned about the recently passed hotel ordinance that limits hotel and motel stays to no more than 15 days in succession, and no more than 60 days during a 180-day period without documentation.
Norcross resident Eric Allen noted many in the community believe portions of the new ordinance will work to improve the health and safety of extended stay residents including requirements for identification, vehicle registrations, additional lighting, parking permits and heated and air-conditioned laundry facilities.
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On the other hand, Allen noted, “We do believe the council needs to take another hard look at a couple of sections of this ordinance.” He and other residents who spoke at the meeting contend people who stay short periods of time at these hotels and motels are the more likely criminals.
Summerour Middle School teacher Edith Riehm had another view point.
“I teach a number of kids who live in these extended stays,” she said. “For many of these families, the only other option is to live in a car.”
Norcross councilmembers asked staff to take another look at the ordinance to determine where revisions might need to be made.
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