To the editor:
Airbnb will reveal that it does not accept the results of the most democratic of institutions—the New England Town Meeting—and will argue that the town of Great Barrington (TGB) citizens got it wrong.
The vote at the town meeting of TGB citizens approved the Leigh Davis STR proposal (Article 25) over Airbnb’s public petition. Airbnb’s petition demands that the TGB allow an owner of any parcel and/or property within TGB, as-of-right, to operate a short-term rental (STR).
Their arrogance is beyond the pale.
The Airbnb business model is clear and concise: Every owner of every property on the planet should have the “as-of-right” ability to run an STR business. That’s the goal. And it appears that they will attempt to strong-arm the citizens of TGB into submission.
For example: Residents who call Castle Hill their home hope and expect their neighbors to follow the rules and regs of the TGB. Unfortunately, many property owners have elected to by-pass TGB approval for a special permit to run an STR business.
At this time, the matter is closed (as of the date of the town meeting); however, if Airbnb supporters attempt to change the aforementioned vote, I suggest that the TGB identify every operating STR, and inspect them for compliance with “use and public safety” regulations in a residential neighborhood. The TGB should then act to defend the residents who are in-compliance and fight and eliminate those who are not.
A residentially-zoned house can be used by owner, and three (3) un-related occupants. If an owner wants a different use, s/he must apply for a special permit. The fact that owners are already operating an STR business, sans a special permit, is no excuse for failing to obtain one.
James Manning
Great Barrington
