HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-17-23 Public Comment - M. Moore - Opposition to Ordinance 2149From:Michael Moore
To:Agenda
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Opposition to Ordinance 2149
Date:Saturday, October 14, 2023 8:52:26 AM
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Subject: Opposition to Proposed Changes in Short-Term Rental Rules
Dear Members of the City Council,
As a resident of Bozeman since 1998, I am writing to express my strong opposition to the
proposed changes in the short-term rental rules, particularly the section of the amendment thatreduces the allowable rental period for Type 2 short-term rentals from 50% of the year to 30%.
I believe this change is detrimental to both property owners and our community as a whole.
Short-term rentals have become an essential source of income for myself and manyhomeowners in Bozeman, allowing us to make the most of our investments and provide for
our families. The proposed reduction to a 30% annual cap will significantly limit the ability tobenefit from our properties and will result in financial hardship for those who rely on this
income stream. I personally will not be able to stay in Bozeman unless I can rent my homewhile my wife and I are working out of town.
Additionally, it’s important to note that reducing the annual rental cap for Type 2 short-term
rentals from 50% to 30% will do nothing to address the ongoing issue of housing availabilityin Bozeman. The scarcity of affordable housing is a complex problem that necessitates
comprehensive solutions, rather than limiting the rental opportunities for responsible propertyowners. It is crucial to separate the need for housing availability from the regulation of short-
term rentals to ensure that our community can thrive and grow in a sustainable and inclusivemanner.
It is disheartening to see that earning income through short-term rentals has become somewhat
vilified. While there may be legitimate concerns, it's essential to remember that many propertyowners who utilize short-term rentals are hardworking individuals seeking to make the most of
their investments in a responsible and lawful manner. It's worth pondering how detractors ofshort-term rentals would feel if their own livelihoods were suddenly limited by stringent
regulations. Just as we all depend on our jobs to support our families and maintain our homes,property owners also rely on these rentals as a means to secure their financial well-being.
Balancing the concerns of detractors with the livelihoods of responsible property owners is achallenge that should be approached with empathy and fairness.
Furthermore, it’s important to acknowledge the contribution that short-term rentals make to
our local economy. They bring tourists to our city, supporting our local businesses,restaurants, and shops. A more restrictive policy may discourage tourism and have negative
repercussions on the broader community.
I would like to emphasize that responsible short-term rental owners are already committed tofollowing the existing regulations and ensuring their guests are good neighbors. Instead of
reducing the annual cap, the city could consider stricter enforcement of existing rules to
address any concerns related to noise, safety, or neighborhood disruption.
In conclusion, I urge the City Council to reconsider the proposed changes to short-term rentalrules, particularly the reduction in the annual cap for Type 2 rentals. These changes have the
potential to harm property owners, our local economy, and the vibrant character of our city. Iencourage you to explore alternative solutions that balance the interests of all stakeholders
while maintaining the unique charm of Bozeman.
Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I hope you will consider the long-term impactof these proposed changes on our community.
Sincerely,
Michael Moore
114 S 7th AveBozeman, MT