In a recent city council meeting, residents expressed growing concerns about the impact of short-term rentals, particularly Airbnbs, on local neighborhoods and the community's demographic landscape. A resident highlighted the closure of several businesses in the downtown area, attributing the decline to a lack of young workers and the presence of makeshift motels disrupting family-oriented neighborhoods. The resident called for a reevaluation of zoning laws to better accommodate families and limit the proliferation of short-term rentals in residential areas.

Council members acknowledged the need for fine-tuning existing ordinances regarding short-term rentals, with discussions centered on potentially capping the number of licenses issued. Some members suggested that a cap could help regulate the market and prevent negative impacts on the community, while also recognizing the economic benefits that tourism brings.

Concerns were raised about the perceived lack of engagement from residents, with some feeling unheard and discouraged from voicing their opinions. Council members discussed the importance of reaching out to constituents and suggested conducting surveys to gather broader input on community issues, including short-term rentals.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for further discussions regarding zoning adjustments and the regulation of short-term rentals, emphasizing the importance of balancing economic growth with community integrity. The council plans to continue exploring these issues in future sessions, aiming to foster a more inclusive dialogue with residents.