SHORT-TERM RENTALS: A mess

As a longtime (and retired) real estate broker, I can see both sides of this issue. Local more-or-less permanent folks and their families want to retain their roots, identity, futures, peace and tranquility. Others, some locals and out-of-area investors want to capitalize on this beautiful area by investing in real estate (homes, etc.,) that they can rent, nightly, weekly, etc., for substantial profit.

Therefore, we have “normal” family life vs. “party neighborhoods” with noise, parking issues, strangers, crime, and more.

Common real estate law (Fee-Simple) says that the owner of a property can enjoy, occupy, reside, lease, rent and lawfully access, without restriction. The city of Coeur d’Alene faces a huge decision.

We are not alone. Other communities have already tackled this. Consider this: Tahoe, Park City, Utah, San Diego, Calif., hundreds of others. The Coeur d’Alene City Council needs to do the required (and demanded) research before making a decision.

If they do not, I assure you, the lawsuits will rain down. Sad.

J. WALL

Hayden