During a recent Port Angeles city council meeting, significant discussions centered around proposed changes to the short-term rental (STR) licensing ordinance. The proposed amendments aim to allow multiple STR licenses for property owners in previously compliant zones, contingent upon their operation prior to a moratorium enacted in March 2023.

Council members and residents expressed mixed opinions on the proposed changes. One council member raised concerns about the legitimacy of the proposed effective date of July 1, 2024, questioning its alignment with the original moratorium date of June 16, 2022. They argued that the new regulations should require proof of operation for at least a year before the moratorium, rather than just six weeks, to ensure fairness and compliance with the council's previous stance against excessive STR ownership.

Public comments reflected a range of perspectives. Supporters of the ordinance emphasized the importance of allowing legal businesses to thrive and expressed frustration over perceived inconsistencies in the council's approach to STR regulations. They argued that penalizing compliant STR owners while allowing illegal operations to continue undermines the integrity of the local business environment.

Conversely, several residents voiced concerns about the potential impact of increased STR licenses on the local housing market, particularly regarding affordable housing availability. They cautioned that allowing multiple licenses could exacerbate housing shortages and favor outside investors over local residents.

The council also faced questions about the potential for a cap on the number of licenses an individual could hold and whether fees for additional licenses would be structured progressively. Some residents suggested that any new licenses should count against the existing cap of 200 STRs to maintain balance within the community.

As the council deliberates these changes, the discussions highlight the ongoing tension between fostering local business growth and addressing community concerns about housing availability and the influence of outside investors in the Port Angeles real estate market. The council is expected to continue evaluating these proposals in future meetings, with the aim of reaching a consensus that balances the interests of local businesses and residents.