MUSKEGON, Mich. — The popularization of short-term rental companies such as AirBnB and VRBO has allowed travelers a different kind of stay than the traditional hotel room. However, the impacts these rentals have on communities is something many are starting to critique.
The Muskegon City Commission voted Tuesday night to approve a temporary ban on new, short-term rentals after hearing concerns on how they're impacting neighborhoods.
Some of the concerns include making the current housing shortage even worse and also worsening the quality of life in the neighborhoods.
The issue was also discussed during a commission work session Monday night.
The temporary ban will last for six months with the option to extend it to 12. That time will allow the city to analyze the impacts the rentals have on the community.
The ban will only effect new rentals outside of the downtown area.
One woman at the Monday night meeting said she feels she is being pushed out of Muskegon.
"We need residents here all year long to support our local services and businesses," she said. "But some of us are on the verge of getting pushed out of our neighborhoods and the city we love by the stress and hassle of living near a short term rental."
Existing rentals may also face some new rules, such as a "three strike policy," higher fees and more requirements on what needs to be posted in the home.
For more information or to give your feedback you can visit here.
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