The rise of short-term rentals in northern Arizona has sparked debate, as local communities grapple with the impact on housing availability and affordability. Despite efforts by lawmakers to tackle these issues, progress has been slow, highlighting a clash between state regulations and local needs.
In recent years, towns and cities in northern Arizona have sought legislative approval to impose restrictions on short-term rentals, which many argue have inflated housing prices and reduced the number of affordable homes. Prescott Republican Representative Selina Bliss has been at the forefront of this battle, presenting three bills to address the situation. Unfortunately, these proposals have not advanced in the state House.
The Challenge of Local Control
During an interview with KNAU’s Adrian Skabelund, Representative Bliss explained the core issue: “Well, you just hit it on the head right there, and it’s an issue of local control where the state comes in and tries to take over cities and towns.” Bliss highlighted the tension between state oversight and local governance, noting that private property rights often hinder legislative progress.
While private property rights are typically prioritized, Bliss raised concerns about the rights of existing residents whose neighborhoods are being transformed by investment firms purchasing properties. She emphasized the need for a balanced approach, suggesting her bills aimed to either limit the number of licenses issued or restore some regulatory power to the cities.
Revisiting previous legislation, Bliss mentioned Debbie Lesko, the original sponsor of the law facilitating the current short-term rental landscape. “She realizes, ‘Oh, this wasn’t the intent of this bill. It was meant for those who have the casita in the back, they want that extra income, but they live on the property,'” Bliss recounted.
Educating Legislators on Community Impact
Bliss expressed the importance of showing urban legislators the real-world effects of short-term rentals on rural communities. She noted, “You pull up to a property and it’s got multiple exit doors, multiple cars parked in the front. It’s obvious that’s not a private homeowner.”
To drive this point home, Bliss encouraged community leaders to share images depicting the impact of short-term rentals. She clarified her stance, saying, “I want to point out, I’m not against short-term rentals. We’re just looking for balance.”
Efforts for Policy Change
When asked about the influence of resolutions passed by northern Arizona cities, Bliss affirmed their impact at the state capitol. The Arizona League of Cities and Towns has been instrumental, with over 30 mayors supporting a resolution addressing short-term rental issues. According to Bliss, such collective action communicates the seriousness of the problem to state leadership.
Challenges from Real Estate Interests
Despite these efforts, Bliss identified the Realtors Association as a significant barrier to progress. “They are the number one reason we are not seeing progress,” she stated, emphasizing the need for realtors to advocate for community interests within their professional associations.
When approached for comment, representatives from the Arizona Association of Realtors and the Northern Arizona Association of Realtors declined to provide statements.
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