August 17th, we do it once again, with a public hearing planned for the Keller Text Amendment asking for RE-5 to allow short term rentals.  The Hearing starts at 5:00.  This is the fourth time a committee will have heard this request, with each of the first three meetings, voting no to this text amendment.

     At the last meeting, the Planning Board listened carefully to residents and voted 7-2 against changing RE-5 zoning to allow short-term vacation rentals. They made the recommendation that this Amendment not be sent to the Commissioners. A year earlier, the Planning Board voted 5-2 while the Polk County Commissioners voted 4-1 against it.  

      The Hunting Country Association exists because residents care deeply about protecting the unique qualities that make this area special. Our community's rural character, open spaces, low-density residential setting, privacy, and stability did not happen by accident. They are the result of thoughtful planning, sound zoning, and decades of stewardship by residents.

     Over the past several years, the Association has worked to address a number of zoning challenges. Most recently, we helped oppose a cluster-home development on New Market Road and three times defended existing zoning provisions regarding short-term vacation rentals. In each case, residents came together to support the long-term vision for Hunting Country.

     Many residents purchased homes and land here with the expectation that Hunting Country would remain a low-density residential community. Zoning helps protect those expectations while balancing the property rights of all residents.

      Allowing Short Term Rentals would change the character of HC.  HC exists to preserve low density residential and rural character, stability, privacy, quite and the expectations of property owners.  Residents purchased homes and land in HC with the understanding that they were not buying next door to a vacation rental.

      The plus side of all of this is that Membership and our Defense Fund have had solid increases.  We thank all of our residents who support us!

     Guest houses remain permitted under existing regulations, and property owners may rent them for periods of 90 days or longer.  

     The greatest strength of the Hunting Country Association is not its Board—it is the residents who stay informed, attend meetings, and participate when important decisions are being made. Your involvement helps preserve the qualities that make Hunting Country such a special place to live.  

       On behalf of the Board of Directors, thank you for your continued support of the Hunting Country Association. Our success depends on residents who care about preserving the unique character of this community. We look forward to seeing many of you at The Gathering on October 4!

Phil Burrus

President Hunting Country Association, July 22, 2026

"Some folks move here to change the things You and I moved here for"

                 - Ole Hunting Country Saying

"Rivers know this, there is no hurry...we shall all get there some day."

                 - Winnie the Pooh