As we communicated weeks ago, Tobias Glidden – the article 90 sponsor – will propose an Amended Motion on Town Meeting floor. Click here for the exact language.
The change is straightforward: year-round residents who want to short-term rent their primary residence (or part of it) are exempt from any limits on the number of days or minimum stay.
This language protects year-round residents’ ability to offer their home, back cottage, or garage apartment for long weekends or weekly rentals throughout the year – making it easier to afford the house and keeping dollars on Island. And since they live there most of the time, they can monitor any issues and ensure their neighbors are happy.
Islanders are being lobbied very hard – with emails and ads online – by VRBO, Airbnb, the Massachusetts Realtor Association, and companies like the Copley Group, Inspirato, and many smaller investors in the short-term rental business.
DON’T BE FOOLED! Article 90 is not a ban and is a reasonable approach – we have to start somewhere to protect the Island from becoming a rental resort like Sedona or Scottsdale.
Town Meeting is Saturday, June 5th. For many of us Town Meeting goers, this will be the first time we vote electronically. We’ll be able to vote our conscience without being judged.
Enjoy a beautiful weekend,
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