To the editor:
I have read the newly proposed bylaws that the West Stockbridge Select Board has proposed, and I have some concerns with the ramifications that may stem from them. I wrote this to the three Select Board members and am awaiting their reply.
My name is Blake McDonald, a resident of South Egremont and owner of the property at 52 Lenox Road in West Stockbridge, which is a short-term rental property. We are aware of the concerns surrounding short-term rentals (STRs) and are committed to preventing the conversion of houses into STRs by investors. We understand the role of tourism in supporting our local economy and small businesses in West Stockbridge.
We believe that with proper management, STRs can benefit the entire community. A possible solution could be a “three strikes” policy to manage disruptive behavior, involving a formal complaint process against rule-violating STR owners. If the owner continues to be a problem, their STR permit could be revoked.
Our family is deeply integrated into the Southern Berkshire and West Stockbridge community: We live in South Egremont; our children attend local schools; and we shop at Public Market, enjoy coffee at Number 6 Depot, dine at Amici’s regularly, and attend shows at The Foundry. We also own one short-term rental house in West Stockbridge, which provides supplementary income for our family. We ensure our guests are respectful and have a positive track record on short-term rental review sites. Since there are no hotels in West Stockbridge, STRs bring tourists into the community who shop at the local stores and restaurants and introduce possible future new residents to the town. With Tanglewood neighboring the community, STRs bring affluent guests into our towns; they support our local business and support our livelihood.
While we understand the concerns surrounding STRs, we believe the proposed bylaws could potentially eliminate STRs from West Stockbridge entirely. It is important to note that the STR landscape has evolved significantly in recent years, with new rules and restrictions that minimize the likelihood of disruptive guests. For instance, Airbnb screens each prospective renter based on prior stays and ID verification. We are very selective when accepting new reservations and maintain open communication with our neighbors.
However, we are concerned that the proposed rules may not address the issues you believe STRs are causing. Eliminating STRs won’t necessarily lower the median sale price of homes in the area or increase the availability of affordable long-term rentals. If the new bylaws are enacted, current STR properties could be listed and sold at a premium.
Blake McDonald
South Egremont
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