I am writing to express my strong support for the consideration of a ban on short-term vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods in Hamilton County. As a concerned resident and advocate for community well-being, I believe this measure is necessary to preserve the integrity, safety, and tranquility of our neighborhoods.
While I understand the appeal of short-term vacation rentals for travelers seeking unique experiences and affordable accommodations, their proliferation in residential areas has raised significant concerns among residents. These concerns range from noise disturbances and parking issues to disruptions in the social fabric of our communities. With all the safety concerns with regards to what is happening in our nation, why would individuals want transient people who they do not know going in and out of their neighborhoods? Your home is supposed to be a place of solitude, a safe haven, and a comfort zone for families.
One of the primary reasons why neighborhoods are cherished by residents is the sense of security, stability, and familiarity they provide. Introducing a constant influx of transient guests through short-term vacation rentals can erode this sense of community and compromise the quality of life for permanent residents. Moreover, the commercialization of residential properties for short-term rental purposes can distort the housing market, making it increasingly challenging for individuals and families to find long-term housing options.
By considering a ban on short-term vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods, Hamilton County has the opportunity to prioritize the well-being and interests of its residents. Such a measure would not only address the immediate concerns related to noise, parking, and community cohesion but also safeguard the long-term sustainability of our neighborhoods.
Additionally, implementing regulations to limit short-term vacation rentals to designated commercial areas can help strike a balance between promoting tourism and preserving residential areas. This approach would allow travelers to enjoy the benefits of vacation rentals while minimizing the negative impact on neighborhoods.
In conclusion, I urge you to support the proposal for a ban on short-term vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods in Hamilton County. By taking proactive steps to protect the character and livability of our communities, we can ensure that Hamilton County remains a desirable place to live, work, and visit for generations to come.
Steve Roark
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Having Short Term Vacation Rentals in our neighborhoods has caused increasing fear and frustration for Hamilton County residents. This past weekend our own neighborhood experienced a four day nightmare due to an STVR rental. Our situation ended without injury, yet we’re reminded of the terror those neighbors in Brently Woods must have felt last September when an active shooter, renting an STVR, got in a fight in the front yard and shot several rounds which hit multiple houses and vehicles.
The county declares action has been taken to avoid any further incidences like this one, yet the county STVR regulations/Resolution was in force for six months prior to this shooting. And sadly, criminal activity in STVR rental units isn’t an isolated experience. The sheriff can’t be called for a violation of STVR rules…his office can only be concerned with criminal activity. If these STVR’s were taken out of private neighborhoods, it would greatly lessen the load on an overburdened sheriff’s department.
Our neighborhood was never advised of the proper protocol to file a complaint against an STVR. We’ve been writing the owner of the STVR, as well as our commissioners and the county attorney regarding numerous violations and damage done to neighboring property, to no avail. It was said that this latest episode was the first and only violation against this particular STVR.
Can you imagine living next door to a Motel 6…new people coming in daily, noises, damage to adjacent properties, and in some cases, criminal activity. Would you feel comfortable with your children playing next door, or walking the neighborhood? Is it fair for one person to make money at the expense of the rest of their neighbors? Will income to the county coffers trump county resident safety?
The City Council amended their existing STVR regulations and banned these in private neighborhoods last May; why wouldn’t the county provide the same protections for their constituents? There is a meeting at the county commission this Wednesday at 9:30 to vote on the amendment to ban new STVR permits in residential areas, and we ask that you show up and stand up for your safety and your freedom.
Commercial enterprises need to be located in commercial zones.
Jerry and Sharon Johnson