During a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong support for a proposed ban on new short-term rentals, citing significant concerns over housing affordability and neighborhood disturbances.

One resident emphasized the ongoing housing crisis, arguing that speculative investors are driving up prices, making it difficult for families to purchase homes. This individual highlighted the negative impact of short-term rentals on local communities, noting that they often lead to disruptive behavior, including noise disturbances and littering, which detracts from the quality of life for permanent residents.

Dana Martin, a local resident living next to an Airbnb, shared her family's distress over frequent parties and disrespectful behavior from guests, including trespassing and public urination. She expressed frustration that the presence of short-term rentals undermines the residential character of neighborhoods and called for the government to consider the well-being of constituents when voting on the ordinance.

Her husband, Joseph Martin, also contributed to the discussion, referencing a previous proposal to reword regulations regarding home-based businesses, which included provisions for short-term rentals. He urged the council to take a firm stance against allowing commercial operations in residential areas, reinforcing the sentiment that such practices violate zoning laws and disrupt community harmony.

The meeting underscored a growing consensus among residents that immediate action is needed to address the challenges posed by short-term rentals, as they seek to protect their neighborhoods and ensure housing remains accessible for families.