Editor:
I suggest an ordinance to mitigate the short-term rental crisis in Laguna Beach. Such rentals are a right of the property owners, just as those living nearby have the right to the quiet enjoyment of their property.
We have a bed tax in Laguna Beach. If the city collects it from every short-term tenant then a considerable increase in revenue will result. Currently, a huge percentage of legitimate bed taxes are uncollected. And revenue from unsold permits is also currently forfeited.
They key to resolution is preventing the tenants from generating unreasonable levels of noise.
Unreasonable noise is a violation of a city ordinance. The bed tax is a city ordinance. Perhaps this solution is to simply enforce existing ordinances.
And also to pass an ordinance requiring short-term landlords to charge a refundable “noise abatement deposit.” Perhaps $500.
Perhaps these funds can be held by the city in a trust account. The city then makes refunds to the tenant, if there are no complaints for noise.
The bookings can require a checked box indicating the tenant has read the noise abatement ordinance, the definitions, and penalties.
Some logistics may require diligence by city staff:
Neighbors making false noise complains must be warned, and if they fail to heed the warnings, then fined (another source of revenue).
City employees must search out and cite homeowners who lease on a short term basis without permits. (An additional source of revenue).
Perhaps an “open enrollment” period with reduced fees for rental permits can be offered to homeowners for 90 days after implementing the new ordinance.
As I’m sure the council is aware, a meeting will take place on June 11 at the Laguna Playhouse, organized by an original architect of the bed tax.
Several excellent projects for beautification will be discussed along with possible methods of funding including increased property taxes, new parcel taxes, increased parking fees, and increased bed taxes.
As a 26-year homeowner in Laguna Beach, I prefer to see the existing bed taxes enforced and the increase revenue earmarked for beautification, rather than levying new taxes.
Enforcement of the existing bed tax in conjunction with noise abatement seems an elegant solution to a rather thorny problem, and may provide a source of funds that allows beautification without tapping the already stressed pockets of property owners.
Joe Becker, Laguna Beach
“Enforcement of the existing bed tax ”
What a UNIQUE concept in a small town that believe in picking and choosing what LAWS it decides to enforce, just like a Third World Republic!
Enforcing the laws on the books, whether they be regulations, legal violations, or even the enforcement of simple vehicle codes regarding Public Safety.
So, so sad when SO many PEONS at LBPD pick and choose which laws to enforce, just like their brothers at City Hall, and their MOMMY and DADDIES on OUR City Council, and KING John Pietag, who really does pull the strings of his puppets in Laguna Beach. Laguna Beach is NOT supposed to be cousins with Ferguson, Missouri!
Happily, I see a more positive future for Laguna Beach, and I am KARNAK: I CAN see the future!