CollingwoodToday welcomes letters to the editor. They can be submitted via the website or emailed to [email protected]. Please include your full name, address, and telephone number for verification purposes. The following letter was submitted in response to the Town of Collingwood's work toward legalizing short-term rentals through a licensing program.
I am writing today about short-term rentals. I have compiled a short list of reasons why short-term rentals can have a negative impact on a rural hub town like Collingwood.
Here are several points highlighting potential drawbacks of short-term rentals in a rural hub town:
1. Disruption of community: Increased short-term rentals can disrupt the social fabric of a rural hub town. Frequent turnover of visitors may lead to a lack of social cohesion and a decrease in community engagement.
2. Limited housing availability: Short-term rentals can contribute to a scarcity of affordable housing options for local residents. Property owners may find it more lucrative to convert long-term rentals into short-term accommodations, reducing the housing supply for those who need it.
3. Increased cost of living: The rising demand for short-term rentals can drive up the cost of living in a rural hub town. As property owners capitalize on the tourism industry, prices for goods and services may increase, making it more challenging for locals to afford basic necessities.
4. Negative impact on local businesses: When visitors stay in short-term rentals, they may spend less money at local businesses compared to if they were staying in traditional accommodations. This can hurt the local economy and limit the growth potential of local businesses.
5. Strain on infrastructure and services: A sudden influx of tourists through short-term rentals can strain the existing infrastructure and services of a rural hub town. Roads, utilities, and public facilities may not be equipped to handle the increased demand, leading to potential congestion and a decline in service quality.
6. Loss of long-term residents: If short-term rentals dominate the housing market, long-term residents who form the backbone of the community may be compelled to leave. This loss can result in a decline in local traditions, knowledge, and the overall sense of community.
7. Potential for property degradation: Short-term rentals often experience higher levels of turnover and less oversight compared to long-term rentals. This increased activity can lead to accelerated wear and tear on properties, potentially resulting in a decline in the overall quality of housing stock in the rural hub town.
Vince R Farina
Collingwood, Ont.
