Vernon Residents Raise Concerns Over Residential Property’s Commercial Use

Vernon residents expressed significant concerns during last week’s city council meeting regarding a residentially zoned property applying for a business license. The residents highlighted that the property – located in a residential zone on Traverse Drive and used by outdoor adventure business Stay and Play the Cypress – is causing traffic congestion and raising environmental issues. Neighbors reported to council members that heavy machinery was being used in a nearby creek, and the property lacked adequate sewage facilities to accommodate the number of visitors it was attracting.
Vernon City Attorney Michelle Blankenship presented a cease and desist order to property owners Frederick and Elizabeth Schmitz on June 18. The order addressed unauthorized commercial use of residential property and called for the rescission of their business license.
The Schmitzes told the Washington County News in a phone interview that they had previously consulted with Washington County officials about using their land for commercial purposes, specifically to operate an Airbnb. According to the Schmitzes, they were informed a business license was “not necessary since Airbnb is regulated by the state.” The couple also mentioned multiple unsuccessful attempts to obtain a business license for renting canoes and kayaks for river activities, despite a similar business operating just two houses away.
The Schmitzes also refuted allegations about heavy machinery being used near the creek, stating the complaints are unfounded and stemmed from their neighbors, David Musholt and Al Porteus, both of which spoke up about the issue to the City Council, stating they have seen up to 40 or 50 cars parked on Traverse Drive. The Schmitzes argued the claim is a misrepresentation, admitted to hosting a family gathering to celebrate their daughter’s college graduation but denying the gathering involved commercial activity or that the number of cars was as high as reported.
The Schmitzes also reported frequent police calls from their neighbors over noise complaints and a recent incident on Father’s Day where a neighbor allegedly pushed Frederick Schmitz over a property dispute.
“This all comes down to who you know, not what you know,” said Frederick Schmitz.
Meanwhile, the City states they are only asking the couple follow policies and ordinances regarding their business.
“Our city is not opposed to business nor granting licenses,” said Vernon City Clerk Candice Hodges. “We just request it be done correctly and through proper procedures.”