Agenda Item
6b) Discussion and Possible Action Including Formation of an Ad Hoc Committee that Would Explore Creation of a Balanced Short-Term Rental Policy for Business Licensees and Others, Consisting of Supervisor Williams and another Supervisor
(Sponsor: Supervisor Williams)
All over our county, especially on the coast, long term rental properties are being sold and turned into short term rentals. The previous tenants, often essential workers or retired individuals with limited income lose their homes and cannot obtain new affordable housing. This is devastating our county. We need to limit the number of homes that are permitted to be turned into short term rentals. You want to address homelessness here? This is a way to do that.
The county's housing crisis can be partially rectified by restricting short term rentals. Available units (ADUs, granny units, extra rooms, and second homes) should be awarded to long-term leasees - the essential workers and service providers that are critical to a functional economy.