Dave,
That was well said.
I also received a letter after hosting this past summer. I spoke at the end of a City Commission Meeting not long ago, about the positive experience of having an Airbnb in the City. Afterwards three Commissioners told me they need to hear more from people like me because all they ever hear are negatives from the few vocal people who are against them.
Right now the City Planning Commission and the City Commission are focussed on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU's). They are considering restrictive ammendments that would inhibit ADU's. The Planning Commission is doing a study session on them December 11th and then the City Commission will decide on the changes December 18th.
Once this is behind them they may be open to looking again at Short Term Home Share Rentals (Airbnb's). I was told by a City Planner that this is a low priority for them, and unless we raise the issue nothing will happen. Their solution has been for people who want to do Airbnb's is to get a Tourist Home License - not the best fit.
As you said, Dave, we need to make our voices heard. One place for us to start is to tell our own individual positive stories about Airbnb's in Traverse City to the City Planners and the City Commissioners. This can be done through emails, arranging to meet with them individually for coffee, and speaking at the end of their meetings when a small window for public comment is open.
The web site: traversecitymi.gov has all the names, email addresses, and phone numbers.
Gary
Boardman Neighborhood