Letter: Short-term rentals add to a vibrant community and should be allowed
I am an Athens native, a UGA graduate, and an active member of this community. My husband and I own a home on the east side of Athens, a house that offers us the ability to supplement our income by listing part of it as a short-term rental.
Shortly after purchasing our home in 2019, we began welcoming guests from all corners of the globe into our basement suite and have now been hosting for more than four years. Operating a short-term rental has not only helped us cover basic living expenses, but has also enriched our lives immeasurably.
Recently, Athens-Clarke County enacted a temporary moratorium on all new short-term rentals in single-family zoning districts — even for people who share their primary residence like we do. The county is now considering longer-term regulations that may prevent Athens families from sharing their homes.
I strongly believe that homeowners have a right to use their property as they wish, and that limiting short-term rentals could negatively impact the Athens community as a whole.
Every day our guests support the Athens economy by spending money at local coffeeshops, restaurants, and grocery stores. Restrictions on short-term rentals in residential areas would ultimately force visitors to find accommodations in neighboring counties, taking their spending and tax dollars with them.
Additionally, our guests contribute to the cultural vibrancy of this town. Over the years we have hosted a grandmother from Italy, a student from Hawaii, and families from places like Canada, Croatia, and Romania. No matter where they’re coming from, we are intentional to give each of our guests a piece of home.
I implore Athens-Clarke County’s leadership to protect the rights of homeowners to share their space, and to encourage neighborhoods that are hospitable and culturally vibrant.
Michelle McQuien
Athens
This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Letter to the editor advocates to allow short term rentals in Athens
