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HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-04-23 Public Comment - A. English STRFrom:Abby English To:Agenda Subject:[EXTERNAL]City Commission Meeting 8/08, Agenda Item I.1 Date:Friday, August 4, 2023 1:06:43 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Members of the City Commission Board, In response to agenda item I.1 for the City Commission Meeting on August 8th, 2023, I am writing to express my strong support for short-term rentals in Bozeman, and to highlight the significant impact they have on job creation and our local economy. As a resident and concerned member of the community, I firmly believe that embracing and promoting short-term rentals can have numerous positive effects on our city's growth and well-being. The short-term rental industry has proven to be a significant driver of job opportunities in Bozeman, providing employment for a diverse range of individuals and supporting livelihoods in various sectors. Let me outline the key points that illustrate the positive effects on job creation: 1. Accommodation Services: With the growth of short-term rentals, there has been an increased demand for property managers, cleaning staff, maintenance personnel, and hospitality professionals. These roles are essential for ensuring that guests have a seamless and enjoyable experience during their stay. 2. Local Support Services: As the number of visitors to Bozeman rises due to short-term rentals, there is a corresponding demand for local services such as transportation, tour operators, and event organizers. This leads to job opportunities in these service-oriented industries. 3. Home Renovation and Maintenance: Property owners who convert their homes into short-term rentals often invest in renovations and improvements to enhance their rental's appeal. This boosts business for local contractors, carpenters, electricians, and other skilled laborers, contributing to job growth in the construction sector. 4. Economic Multiplier Effect: The influx of tourists and increased spending associated with short- term rentals stimulate businesses across the board, resulting in job creation in retail, restaurants, and entertainment venues. While I do not have the specific number of jobs created through short-term rentals in Bozeman, it is evident that the industry has a substantial impact on our local workforce. An in-depth analysis conducted by the relevant authorities could provide precise data on the number of jobs generated and their significance to the local economy. In addition to job creation, short-term rentals also provide several other benefits to our community, including the diversification of accommodation options, promotion of tourism, preservation of historic properties, and fostering community engagement. As we continue to foster economic growth in our city, it is crucial to acknowledge the positive contribution of short-term rentals in creating employment opportunities for our residents. By nurturing this industry responsibly and in tandem with well-crafted regulations, we can strike a balance between promoting tourism, supporting local businesses, and preserving the charm of our community. I kindly request the City Commission Board to consider these factors when discussing policies related to short-term rentals in Bozeman. Embracing this industry and fostering its growth in a sustainable manner will undoubtedly yield long-term benefits for our city and its residents. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I trust that you will take these points into consideration as you continue your efforts to promote a thriving and prosperous Bozeman. Sincerely, Abigail English