Residents of Wimberley are voicing strong opposition to the proliferation of short-term rentals (STRs) in their neighborhoods, citing concerns over noise, safety, and community integrity. During a recent government meeting, several community members expressed their fears that the approval of new STR applications could disrupt the character of their residential areas.

Amanda Zender Thielman, a local resident, highlighted the negative impacts of STRs, including increased noise from frequent guest turnover, safety concerns due to unfamiliar guests, and economic pressures that could exacerbate housing shortages. She emphasized that the transient nature of STRs undermines the sense of community that long-term residents cherish, leading to divisions among neighbors.

Mary Anne and Martin Veil Leon echoed these sentiments, warning that STRs could lead to stagnating or declining property values. They expressed frustration over the lack of accountability from landlords and renters, who may not maintain properties to the same standards as owner-occupants. The couple has been actively involved in community preservation efforts since 1997 and fears that allowing STRs could compromise the neighborhood's family-oriented atmosphere.

Mary Mitchell, a resident just outside the city limits, also voiced her concerns, stating that she would not have purchased her home had she known an STR would be operating next door. She described her neighborhood as a peaceful community and urged officials to consider the potential disturbances that STRs could bring.

Other residents, including Brian Johnson and Francis Ambrose, raised alarms about the disruptive behaviors associated with vacationers, such as loud music and traffic violations. They argued that granting conditional use permits for STRs could set a precedent for further commercialization of their residential neighborhood.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between those seeking the financial benefits of STRs and those advocating for the preservation of their community's character. As discussions continue, residents are calling on city officials to prioritize the long-term stability and harmony of their neighborhoods over short-term economic gains.