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HomeMy WebLinkAbout18 Ord 1360 Public CommentsSanchez, Gloria From: Sent: Cc: Subject: Ortega, Niamh Thursday, December 3, 2020 1:49 PM Sanchez, Gloria FW: SAVE Short Term Rentals From: paula willis [mailto:l Sent: Thursday, December 3, 2020 12:37 PM To: CityhallMail Subject: SAVE Short Term Rentals City Council Members, We are home owners who have lived in Palm Desert for ten years. We have used our casita for an Airbnb for six of those years. We have hosted people from all over the world and have never had a problem or complaint from our neighbors. In fact, our neighbors call us to rent our space when they have extra family visiting that they would like to keep close but may not have the capacity. So we're able to help them. That's just one of the benefits that many "non-STR" residents don't realize. Another is that as a host, I have to keep up my curb appeal in excess of the norm. No dead flowers or broken gates, etc. This also benefits my neighborhood. And the income from the STR is what helps to pay for the improvements and repairs. The uncontrolled noise issue is a POLICE matterM If the police would respond quickly and effectively, the situation would be greatly reduced. If the City Council started fining and revoking the rights of repeat offenders, the situation would not continue. Maybe you should consider requiring a license for STRs that are not owner co -occupied. And revoke the license when needed. Stopping ALL STRs is like taking a gun ... no a CANNON, to a knife fight. The noise can be handled without impacting the income of the law abiding residents. I live on my property, so I'm not at stake. But I considered buying a condo that could be used occasionally as an STR. Doesn't work for me anymore. Another loss to the community. Paula Willis Palm Desert Sanchez, Gloria From: kenneth robins Sent: Friday, December 4, 2020 9:21 AM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: Short Term Rentals Dear Council Members, I don't think I will be able to attend the city meeting on December loth. I am currently the holder of a short- term rental license. I pay $20,0000 a year in property taxes alone to the City of Palm Desert. My ability to do so is largely dependent on the income I make from my short-term rental. The people who I rent to bring considerable money into the restaurants, stores, and businesses of Palm Desert. Almost all of these guests are retired or senior citizens. They come to play golf, hike and relax. And they are not people who would otherwise stay in a hotel. They are people who would otherwise go to a different city in the desert if they were not able to rent an autonomous living situation here. While I understand the concerns of some residents who are trying to eliminate short term rentals, I think we have to consider that Palm Desert attracts generally affluent people who are respectful of the quiet, residential character. They do not come to party. I believe that many communities have, with some thoughtful regulation, been able to maintain short term rentals in a way that benefits the community at large in a very positive way. As the owner of property in a residential area I would sincerely ask you not to prohibit short term rentals but to set.regulations that would allow residents a means to deal with problems when, and if, they arise. Thank you. Kenneth Robins Sanchez, Gloria From: Sent: To: Subject: Hello, I am for your proposal. Thanks, John J. Longeway John Longeway Friday, December 4, 2020 10:58 AM CouncilMeeting Comments Short term rentals Sanchez, Gloria From: Maryalice Owings Sent: Friday, December 4, 2020 1:39 PM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: Short Term Rentals Dear Palm Desert Council: Thank you for working to limit short term rentals. These rentals tend to have a very disrupting effect on the neighborhoods in which they are located and I appreciate you looking out for the interest of the citizens who live here full time. I understand there is a negative impact economic impact on the owners, and I am sorry, but our day-to-day living is often interrupted by their rentals and that is not fair to the residents who live here full-time. Sincerely, Maryalice O C3:rj �n•C ; n;are: - -•oC T� J Sanchez, Gloria From: Gina Miller Sent: Friday, December 4, 2020 2:46 PM To: CouncilMeeting Comments; Nestande, Gina; Harnik, Jan; Kelly, Kathleen; Jonathan, Sabby; info@vronpd.org; Information Mail; Bynder, Randy Subject: Letter to stop the ban of short term rentals in Palm Desert Dear Mayor, City Council Members and the City of Palm Desert My name is Gina Miller. I am a proud owner of a Short Term Rental home in the beautiful city of Palm Desert. I'm writing you this letter to ask you to please stop the ban of STR's in the city of Palm Desert. Having a STR is a privilege that I don't take for granted. I have always been respectful to my neighbors and so have my guests. I have never had any complaints from my neighbors. Some of my neighbors love renting my house from me when they have out of town family or guests come to town for them to stay there. A lot of people like to rent a home when they come to Palm Desert instead of staying at a hotel. It feels like a home away from home for them.They can enjoy their family all staying together, or their friends staying together. They can enjoy having a kitchen, a family room to gather in and their own private pool. I have wonderful people that come from all over the united states that come to Palm Desert and stay at my home. Golfers, tennis players, concert goers and many people that like to travel. These guests bring so much business to the city. I'm always recommending restaurants, shopping areas and entertainment places for them to enjoy when they come to town. With every guest that books a stay at my home, I call them, I welcome them and I go over all the house rules with them. The rules are no loud noise, no loud music, no music after lOpm., no more than 3 cars total (2 out of the 3 cars must be parked in the garage), no pets and no smoking. Everyone has been so respectful to me, my home and the rules. This STR is my main source of income .It will be a huge financial hardship on me and all the people I givejobs to that help,me run my STR so smoothly. The cleaning lady, the pool service company, the repair man and the gardener will also have their income compromised. I bought this home because having STR's was allowed. I never thought it would be banned. If STR'S are banned it will be devastating to me and to many other STR owners that I know personally. I am asking you to please not ban this, instead maybe set some city rules to go by. If some STR's are causing issues in some neighborhoods maybe fine them or ban them if they don't comply with your rules. Please don't punish the ones who will comply with your rules and standards and who love having this privilege. Gina Miller i Broker -Associate DRE#01957586 v N King Y P Realty Group o rn ` �o rr J f'l�rt -o a v rr 3` -' -n N �T' Sanchez, Gloria From: Laura Trudell <lauratrudelll@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, December 4, 2020 5:59 PM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: short term rentals Please reconsider keeping short term rentals in Palm Desert as our owners are in need of any income at this time. Thanks Laura Trudell NOVA Real Estate Services 949 279-2208 760 808-4112 Lauratrudelll(cDRmail.com Ca Property4sale.com Lic. # 01444500 a J.i r� or:c, rn 0 VI J N `r Sanchez, Gloria From: Ray Uhls Sent: Saturday, December 5, 2020 10:35 AM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: Short term rental I own a property in Palm Desert Greens Country Club. I am against the short term rental ban. The desire of politicians to constantly impose more control escapes me. If loud parties are the issue there is already a law in place to deal with that. It's a noise ordinance. My suggestion would be to enforce the current law. If the problem is so egregious you could hire a specific person similar to a parking enforcement officer to patrol, issue an initial citation and then the second violation goes to police. Why is it that council members and government politicians want to ban and close everything? People have a right to rent out their property. Find a solution that works for everyone but doesnt impose control on everyone. It's not difficult. Ray Uhls O r17 rn r T, J rn rn Ni m - N Sanchez, Gloria From: Mary Suarez Sent: Monday, December 7, 2020 1:47 PM To: CouncilMeeting Comments; Bynder, Randy; Nestande, Gina; Kelly, Kathleen; Harnik, Jan; Jonathan, Sabby Cc: info@vronpd.org Subject: STR'S PR -Zoning My name is Mary Suarez. I am a Palm Desert resident. My husband and I have 2 STR's a few streets over, one on Centennial and one on Meadow Lane. R-1 and R-2 have been taken away and now you're going to take away PR1 zoning STR's as well, BUT ONLY PR -zones without an HOA? How is it possible to segregate us out just because we don't belong to an HOA? We are extremely responsible STR owners. We overemphasize the rules and regulations to ALL guests. We physically meet and greet our guests, have them sign a waiver that they agree to ALL rules of the city AND OURS (which happen to be stricter than yours) We do not have issues with our renters. Well, I have dozens of reasons WHY STR's are NEEDED in our valley, but this isn't about STR's in our valley anymore, it's about being singled out... 69 STR's without an HOA, BUT IN A PR Zone! NOT FAIR and NOT RIGHT. I was writing before about keeping STR's, but now..... with the inequity of splitting up a ZONE, it makes NO SENSE and it's completely UNFAIR and I believe illegal! If you're going to get rid of PR zoning, you have to get rid of ALL PR STR's, not subdivide the ZONE... that's why we bought off Hovley and NOT in an R-1 zone. It's PLANNED RESIDENTIAL and we should be treated like every other PLANNED RESIDENTIAL zoning area, HOA or not! You need to have rules and regulations, ANY STR'owner NOT following or abiding by the rules set forth, are to have their permits REVOKED and never issued again. You've implemented strict fines which is good.... however, there are those who will pay fines and continue to do as they please, THOSE STR' owners SHOULD GO AWAY! Just because there's a few bad apples on a tree, doesn't mean we should cut it down! Let's eliminate the bad apples and become stricter on enforcement. I think you'll see that the 'right' STR owners will be all for this! Please, don't take our business away from us because of a few bad apples! Let's get STRICT on STR Owners..... you'll see very quickly who the bad apples are! Thank you, Mary Suarez Resident of Palm Desert & STR Owner C, N N 7rn —i rn 3: -y �3 rn i J m s3 n sR - n - "O Xa c•'� rr J T N Sanchez, Gloria From: David Fickes Sent: Tuesday, December 8, 2020 6:48 AM To: Bynder, Randy; CouncilMeeting Comments; Information Mail Cc: Nestande, Gina; Kelly, Kathleen; Harnik, Jan; Jonathan, Sabby; Weber, Susan Marie; info@vronpd.org Subject: STR proposed regulation changes Hello, thank you for the opportunity to voice my opinion on the proposed short term rental changes in Palm Desert. My fiancee and I have had our home in Palm Desert for the past three years. In this time we have successfully rented our home to over 87 groups - all without major incident to our home or disturbance to our neighborhood. All of our noise complaint calls* have been logged before quiet hours and are often unfounded (30% of the time), quickly resolved (60%) or are based on people - namely kids and families - having a good time. S-2 Date Status+V - ,_, -Time,_ _ /, „D�'sposition<' Notes' _ ,_- - . � N o t 324/I8 Noise^ Unknown Complied O r 4/27/19 Noise 12:25PM Complied Cite issued for "non response', pn�^ dismissed due to clerical error ;n I5/4/19 Noise, Parking 1:1oPM Unfounded ac 8/16/20 Noise 9:38PM Complied Loud children playing T N ^ 10/4/20 Noise 9:12PM Unfounded Cite issued for "non response", ? n dismissed due to clerical error 00 �++ 5/15/20 Noise MOM Complied "children talking and playing" 17/31/20 Noise 9:40PM Complied 8/21/20 Noise 8:17PM Complied "talking and laughter' I ' 18/22120 Noise 9:58PM Unfounded * Data proved by L. Ritchey, Code Compliance Division, City of Palm Desert During this challenging COVID times, we offer a refuge to family and friends who want to get away to a safe, clean well appointed home where they can relax and responsibility enjoy themselves. A few comments from recent guests ... "Perfect place for a wholesome family get together" - Christine, October 2020 "This home is by far our number one vacation home ... the fire pit was relaxing and great for s'mores with the little ones." - Martha, September 2020 We also do our best to mitigate complaints. We have a posted "No Street Parking" sign at our front door, two "Quiet Hours IODm-loam" signs (inside the house and one in the back yard) and two noise measuring technologies (NoiseAware and Minut). Additionally each responsible party signs an "STR Addendum" which details all of the local regulations and house rules. These rules are also verbally reinforced by a check -in visit from our local contact who lives just a block away; 1 We do our absolute best to maintain peace with our neighbors, adhere to local regulations, provide a revenue source for the city and an environment were our guests can safely enjoy themselves and all that Palm Desert has to offer. We employ local businesses to clean our home (ZenMaids), maintain our pool (Virgil's Pool Service) and keep up our curb appeal (Jose Bueno Gardening). These business count on short term rentals for their success. We are asking that STRs be allowed to continue operate in PD zoned areas and that if it is decided that properties will be further regulated that we be given a 2 year sunset period to adjust our business model. STRs are very important to our city and we hope that decisions will be made for pending regulations that will find balance with neighborhoods, operators and guests. Respectfully, David FIckes & Tracy Phillips Sanchez, Gloria From: J.C. Sutherland Sent: Tuesday, December 8, 2020 3:54 PM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Cc: info@vronpd.org Subject: Short Term Rentals - Letter for Consideration / December 10 City Council Meeting To Whom It May Concern, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. I'm writing in regards to the ordinance on STR's that is coming up for the second reading on December 10, 2020. After listening in, and commenting during the November 19 city council meeting, I'm disappointed that the council is requiring more paperwork for an art installation to avoid the appearance of supporting Saudi Arabia, than from their own staff on a decision that will kill 67 small businesses in their own city, and change the property rights of a huge swath of the community. Council's comments on business risk, and the ease in which owners could sell and then buy another property, create a HOA, or do long term rentals, laid bare a startling ignorance of a major sector of the city's economy, and the costs involved of making such moves for owners both in transactional costs, and tax implications. Frankly, it was insulting, and while entrepreneurs do take risks, usually the risk is the market not accepting your product or price, not the government limiting your constitutional rights. I found it rich that during the same meeting where council touted a plan for trying to spur business growth in the region, they voted against local businesses. Operators aren't some foreign menace, we're members of this community. Since the last reading, I've contacted my neighbors, and they were sorry that council is trying to cause financial harm to my family, and hope that we'll be able to keep the house, because we are great neighbors. They were also alarmed that they themselves would be losing the option of renting their houses in the future, and very alarmed that they had no idea that council was taking away that right, essentially doing a back door rezone on their property, that could effect value and the aforementioned flexibility to rent it themselves, without them having any idea. Council says this will only effect the 67 licensed houses, when in reality they're effecting hundreds, if not thousands, with the vast majority of those homeowners having no idea this is being done to their property. The money I've spent on my property will not be recouped with a sale. Improvement decisions were made without property value in mind. I'm hoping the city will reject this ill considered ordinance, or it will end up in court. Anyone' with the ability to use a search engine can see that with California and US law being what it is, this ordinance will not stand up to scrutiny. I hope council will choose to work with operators to weed out problem houses, instead of forcing operators into the position of losing an investment or being adversarial. We all want to make Palm Desert a better place for everyone. Sincerely, James Sutherland o ? c p-- 0Tw m •4 Co Sanchez, Gloria From: Stuart Mathew Sent: Tuesday, December 8, 2020 6:21 PM To: Bynder, Randy, CouncilMeeting Comments; Information Mail; Nestande, Gina; Kelly, Kathleen; Harnik, Jan; Jonathan, Sabby Cc: info@vronpd.org Subject: Comment on Second Reading of Proposed Ordinance 1360, City of Palm Desert This email is in response to the second reading of the City of Palm Desert Proposed Ordinance 1360 and the associated language regarding the requirement of a HOA memo for issuance of a Short Term Rental (STR) permit. First, we are pleased that the City Council changed the language to require the HOA to notify the City of any changes in STIR rules instead of requiring a memo to issue a permit. However, in reality, this language is redundant and unnecessary as the HOA's have the authority already to not approve STRs in their jurisdictions. By adding language to the city code, it appears that the city council is in an advocacy position for HOA's to be more aggressive in restricting STRs. We believe the language is redundant, unnecessary and puts the City in a position of appearing anti STRs. This is not in the City's best interest in ensuring a diverse range of accommodations for visitors. The City should be silent on this HOA issue as it is internal to the administration of the HOA. The City should not approve the language. Secondly, the City Council is taking a short term approach on an issue that the Council really has not defined. The City Council and staff stated that STRs in the mentioned Planned Residential (PR) areas weren't compatible to how these PR areas are being used. They stated these PR areas are functioning as residential areas, not Planned Residential areas without any explanation as to why they believe this to be true. As such, absent any definitive information about the effect of STRs on these PR areas highlighted in the November City Council meeting, the City is proposing an ordinance that is implementing one aspect of zone type in exclusion of others. Again, the Council heard testimony from City staff and the City Council themselves stated that the PR zones were "functioning" as residential areas but were not entertaining rezoning the areas because it was too hard or that there would be too many other non -conforming issues if it were rezoned to a residential zone. The City has not defined why they believe these areas are functioning as residential areas and have apparently not been concerned at all about the areas not conforming to their original PR zoning. If the City staff (and City Council) does believe that the areas function as a residential function and not a planned residential function, they need to ascertain if these areas are best served as adhering to their original PR zoning or converting to a pure residential zone. If they believe it should be a residential area, they need to do the hard work to rezone the area and bring "ALL" aspects of the area up to residential zoning standard, albeit over a grandfathering time period. By singling out STRs in these PR areas as purportedly not being compatible to the area's current use (not their zoning), STIR permit holders are being singled out at the exclusion of all other non -conforming uses. The City needs to take a wholistic look at these zoned areas and until a conclusive case is made by the City that these highlighted PR areas could serve a pure residential function with all of the ensuing non -conforming issues resolved over time, or determine these areas need to continue serving in their original PR zoning (in which case the ordinance is not applicable), we do not support Proposed Ordinance 1360. I tZ wd 6- 330 HE v/r 83530 WV48 Stuart and Diane Mathew 11 143JS,�A'0'10 I J.10 rj�Al3071�1 Sanchez, Gloria From: Sent: To: Subject: JENNIFER SHEPARD Wednesday, December 9, 2020 6:20 AM CouncilMeeting Comments Action Item #18: Ordinance 1360 on December 10, 2020 Dear Honorable mayor, members of the council and staff, N_ b 0 r*rn c-) T.. -o sC N �D I am speaking tonight in opposition to action item 18, ordinance 1360 regarding short term rentals (STRs). I believe strongly that this ordinance is too draconian a response to address the'issues and concerns brought forth in Palm Desert at this time. I certainly understand that there are legitimate concerns about STRs for some neighborhoods, however, short term rentals have created overall benefit to the community and your own city guidelines and regulations in the good neighbor program has the potential to work if properly enforced and if owners are held responsible for their renters. A substantial majority of home owners model excellent short term rental practices by thoroughly reviewing guidelines with their potential renters, ensuring agree upon compliance to rules and regulations, vetting renter identity, and holding renters accountable if violations occur. If an owner does not adhere to expectations they should absolutely be held accountable with fines, potential loss of permit, or full and permanent removal of their permit so that our Palm Desert neighborhoods can maintain a quality of life that they deserve. Visitors to our incredible community return regularly and fall in love with the community bringing us potential future owners based on their short term rental experiences. These visitors further bolster the local economy through shopping dining, hiking, biking and other entertainment activities. ' Benefits to the community include the employment of a number of individuals and small businesses including housekeeping, handyman services, pool and yard maintenance, among many others. 1 While these services would likely be utilized under regular residential circumstances their frequency increases significantly with short term rental users. I believe strongly that the circumstances of 2020 are an anomaly given our Covid crisis and fully expect a return to a more typical year with STRs once Covid subsides. I would be proud for Palm Desert to be known as a welcoming community for visitors of all types (hotel, motel, and both short and long term rentals). I believe that this can be achieved through dialogue and collaboration between the city and homeowners to hold both owners and renters accountable. You speak about "Unite PD" - let's try through a collaborative process to create an environment where "Palm Desert welcomes you" is true for everyone who visits our wonderful city. Regards, Jennifer Shepard Rocha, Grace .From: vince affinito Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 11:48 AM To: Rocha, Grace Subject: Meeting for 12/10 Hello Grace, Can you please add the following comments for tomorrow's meeting? N C7 Thank you!! o n Vince Affinito M r� si rn ,_ N TI Dear Mayor, City Council Members and the City of Palm Desert: First of all, let me thank each and every one of you for your time and commitment to making Palm Desert one of the best cities in America. It is at times a completely thankless job, knowing that some of your decisions will certainly not please everyone! My name is Vince Affinito, I purchased a home in Palm Desert in August of this year with my business partner Zac Crouse. It is a.beautiful home, in an amazing neighborhood. The neighbors are wonderful and we couldn't be happier. We have invested a great deal of money and time into our property since our purchase. We have spoken to all of our neighbors with specific instructions that if there are any rules being broken to contact us immediately and we will take care of the problem. To date we have had no such issues. We believe that communication between all parties works best. STR'S are a good thing for the community. It raises revenue in especially hard times such as these, not only for the property owner but for the city as well. It keeps numerous people gainfully employed, landscapers, pool service, house cleaners, handymen, rental agencies to name a few. All the while providing a truly enhanced experience to the guest who does not wish to stay at traditional hotel type housing. The guest who wants to come home after a day of golf or tennis and lounge by the pool, and utilize the BBQ for a nice home cooked meal. On the nights when they wish to go out, they dine and shop locally which in turn helps to promote the local economy. By banning STR'S these guests will not look to local hotel style housing, they will simply go to other cities! Which means that we all lose!! We purchased this home, in this specific neighborhood because it was not subject to the prior bans of STR'S in zones R-1 and R-2. It does strike us as unfair that you are specifically excluding HOA'S from your proposed new legislation. It's as if you are picking the winners and losers in the STR market. We understand the needs of the full-time residents, which we are in full agreement with. Keeping noise down, no loud music, keeping the yard clean and clear of garbage and debris, keeping off street parking to a minimum to name a few. Can't we all find a way to work together as opposed to rescinding property rights to those of us who wish to utilize STR'S? If there are bad properties, the discipline should start with that specific property as opposed to lumping us all together. We would be more than happy to do anything in our power to help assist in some type of a compromise, such as sitting on an advisory board to further research the matter. A good deal is when everyone WINS ... the property owner, the occupier of the STR, the neighbors and neighborhood and of course the City. Thank you in advance for your time and considerations! Kindest Regards, Vince Affinito Zac Crouse Palm Desert, CA. 92211 Sanchez, Gloria From: William Choplin Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 11:58 AM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: Message for City Council for the December 10, 2020 Meeting Please distribute this message to the City Council members for the December 10, 2020 City Council meeting. Please acknowledge receipt of this message. Thank you, William Choplin To The Palm Desert City Council, We want to thank the City Council and City Staff for all the time and effort you have given to developing solutions to the concerns residents have expressed about short term rentals operating in our neighborhoods. Your approach to proposed ordinance 1360 has been thoughtful, balanced and efficient by applying the policies and practices you established in 2017. The proposed ordinance will align our planned residential non gated neighborhoods with R1 zoning and protect residents from STRs while allowing STRs to continue to operate in 75% of the planned residential zone. We want to congratulate and welcome Council Member Quintanilla to the City Council. During your campaign for City Council you stated that you favored STRs. At that time you indicated that you believed each neighborhood should determine if they wanted to allow STRs. Residents from the 4 neighborhoods being considered in the proposed ordinance clearly want to ban STRs where they live. Please vote yes to pass the proposed ordinance. Passage will not impose any new restrictions to STRs in District One. All 4 neighborhoods are in District Two. Some STR owners say they want to work with residents and find win win solutions. Imagine if the city allowed motorcycle repair shops to operate out of the garages of single family homes in neighborhoods that function like Rl. It sounds absurd. Most residents in non gated neighborhoods that function like R1 think STRs operating in our neighborhoods is also absurd. STRs on our residential streets create on -going uncertainty and change the entire social and safety network present in most neighborhoods. The only acceptable solution for our neighborhoods is a complete ban. There are over 18,000 housing units in planned residential gated and R3 neighborhoods. This provides plenty of opportunity for the STR industry to grow. We don't need to sacrifice our PR non gated neighborhoods in order for STRs to thrive. We can coexist in different areas of the city. In the November 19th Council meeting, Mr Clayton testified that there should be solutions to satisfy everyone. Perhaps the city can work with STR investors to help them find areas in Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley that accept STRs. Some STR operators have told us that a portion of visitors to our valley want STR type lodging and don't want to stay in hotels. Perhaps STR investors and host facilitators such as Airbnb could work with a housing developer to build housing specifically for short term renters on some undeveloped land? We are sure STR investors can find solutions that do not include non gated Rl type neighborhoods. O Please vote yes and pass proposed ordinance 1360. It will change our lives. rq `_ i �rn0 � main, Thank you. m ^ - �v v rrn The signatories below represent 46 homes and 71 residents. ry cr7 ,., James and Senoleen Bantley 73540 Terraza Dr Bobby and Becky Gray 73548 Terraza Dr Bill and Cheryl Bester 73554 Terraza Drive Steve and Tiffany Matheson 40590 Glenwood Lane William Glover 40657 Glenwood Lane Richard Kluth and Tim Landherr 40750 Clover Lane Patty Williams Clover Lane Hardy and Patti Sanner 40500 Clover Lane Jim and Gladys Bersamin 40585 Meadow Lane Diana and Bob McGinity 40501 Meadow Lane John and Carlie Stanley 40528 Meadow Lane Robert and Hedeliza Greer 40641 Meadow Lane Carrie McLeod 40556 Meadow Lane Mike Mcgaff 40612 Diamondback Dr Richard Feldman 40640 Diamondback Dr Nancy Nowak and William Choplin 40669'Diamondback Dr Robyn and Steve Nagle 40697 Diamondback Dr z Arnauld and Sissi Dumont 40528 Diamondback Dr Mark Bayer, M.D, and Carol Bayer, MFT 40712 Via Fonda Barbara Norman and Alan Franks 40632 Via Fonda Scott and Courtney Halterlein 40580 Via Fonda Robert and Carol Klatskin 40625 Cabana Ct Larry and Susan Megorden 40688 Cabana Court Mark and Susan Wasson 40620 Baranda Ct Brenda Berman 40840 Avenida Calafia Tim and Mary Hansen 40810 Centennial Circle Cliff Sanforth 40783 Sandpiper Ct Judee and Fred Wieder 40817 Sandpiper Ct Tammie Mog 40752 Sandpiper Ct Donna Riegelhuth 40784 Sandpiper Ct West Tom and May Woulfe 40490 Corte Placitas Stanley Huff 74076 Chinook Circle Beckie Biedebach 74071 Chinook Circle Mike Kelly 74065 Chinook Circle 3 Rita Westlie Chinook Joe and Mary Batok 73500 Woodward Dr Diane Stupi Hovely Court Ann Morales Lavender Way Joan Sugino 74590 Lavender Way Miguel and Diana Leal 74537 Lavender Way Manuel Esparza 74517 Lavender Way John Kalish 40580 Posada Ct Joyce Engel The Grove Jorge and Maria A Rodriguez 74134 College View Cir E Am Rodriguez 74137 College View Circle Ashley Skarin 44226 Indian Canyon Lane Sanchez, Gloria From: Ellen Kane <Ellen@desertcornerstoneins.com> Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 2:24 PM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: Attached Letter Attachments: We sent you safe versions of your files; PD Council Ltr 12092020.docx Mimecast Attachment Protection has deemed this file to be safe, but always exercise caution when opening files. r Please include the attached letter in the Council packet. Thank you, Ellen Resert Comerstone f(D INSURANCE SERVICE, Bufam @All vnifusf Ellen Kane 760.413.5173 Cell 760.347.7723 Office X 1008 760.347.7725 Fax ellen@desertcornerstoneins.com 81-713 Highway 111, Suite E Indio, California 92201 www.desertcornerstoneins.com CA Lic. OF15709 N r�� o >� o y0X: rTJ r rn70r:, rtt N c.n rn 1 Honorable Mayor Nestande and Council Members, The issue with short term rentals has certainly taken a toll on all of us and you have heard the pros and cons again and again. I do, however, want to share this story because it truly represents why there is opposition: A former STR, one house away from mine, had a never ending swinging door of weekenders and short-termers. With the implementation of the city ordinance, the owner put the house on the market and it was sold. The new residents are a Doctor (who came here from Orange County and works at Eisenhower Hospital), his wife who does medical research from home, their two year old son and most recently a newborn baby. I went over and introduced myself after they moved in and have had a few conversations when they are out walking. After dropping off some toys that my household no longer needed, a nice thank you message ensued. Yesterday, a beautiful Christmas card was in the mail that shared a collection of family photos that were so meaningful. This is what it's like to have neighbors in our neighborhood! Best wishes for the holidays and thank you for all your hard work, Ellen Kane Pam Desert Sanchez, Gloria From: Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 2:41 PM To: Sanchez, Gloria Cc: Bynder, Randy, info@vronpd.org; Nestande, Gina; Kelly, Kathleen; Harnik, Jan; Jonathan, Sabby; CouncilMeeting Comments; Information Mail; Rocha, Grace ca Subject: Letter of Opposition to Ordinance 1360 a -t ca 0 December 9, 2020rT: Subject: Opposition to Ordinance 1360 v r m Good afternoon, N c-n " n I wanted to take this opportunity to reiterate our strong opposition to this proposed Ordinance 1360. We are not directly impacted but we do not believe the council is acting in good faith or in the best interests of the community, or in the city's financial interests. Requiring a letter from an HOA specifically targets 69 operators and disor000rtionately discriminates aeainst PR zoned homes that do not have HOAs to provide authorization. It also further concentrates vacation rentals in HOAs that allow them. Why does the city claim denser vacation rentals decreases the quality of life, but then rush to enact legislation, during a pandemic, with tenuous support from a small number of aggravated residents, without due process to those impacted, that will result in densification elsewhere? Your reason fails to stand up to your premise. Claims were made by staff and by the subcommittee that the pro vs con arguments are identical to 2017 and need not be discussed again, but we did not have Covid in 2017 and the disproportionate treatment of homes in like -zoned communities is also a significant difference, as is the 1 year sunset period. The ban in R1 and R2 was universal. Here the ban only impacts homes that do not have HOA representation. The subcommittee has declined to meet with STR advocates, despite many attempts to engage in the process. Attempts to request public information to support the various claims made in the staff report have not been answered and information the city claimed was not available to STR advocates seems to have been freely provided to Desert Sun reporters for anti-STR opinion publications. The conclusions by staff and the city council have not been supported by factual, quantitative data. Financial impacts have yet to be understood for the last ban. Further, we note that not a single person opposed to vacation rentals bothered to show up to speak at any of the council meetings on this topic. The only "anti-STR" advocate who attended the first read of this ordinance spoke instead of indifference. Sending an email is not the same thing as showing up. So I have to ask, who is this council pressing forward so aggressively for? Why is this council so zealously persecuting these 69 upstanding businesses in circumvention of the 2017 legislation that has worked effectively before the Covid crisis and why has the subcommittee refused to engage those they seek to disenfranchise with open and transparent presentation of data? City staff showed in the October meeting that there were "slight upticks" this past year. Why have requests for data to demonstrate this trend continued or subsided after the initial relaxation of stay at home orders last April/May been refused? Does the council even know whether the trend continued or are you basing your decision on stale data? In conclusion, the legislation worked before the, Covid crisis, there is no reason to conclude that it will not work again after the crisis or that it isn't working now for that matter. The city is running a deficit which will likely continue well into 2021. This is a callous and irresponsible action the city is taking that will have many negative consequences felt . across the community and by local businesses. Thankyou. Robert and Genevieve Sharrow Palm Desert CA 92211 Sanchez, Gloria From: jannbuller Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 2:49 PM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: Support for amending STR ordinance as approved at first reading Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers, Your action on the first reading of the proposed amendment to the STR ordinance offered a balanced approach to meeting the needs and wishes of Palm Desert residents, STR owners and visitors. I encourage you to adopt the amendment at the second reading. For STR owners in Palm Desert, 75 percent of the city's total dwelling units will continue to be available for short-term rental at the owner's discretion. In the four neighborhoods affected by the ordinance amendment, the current STR owners will be free to maintain their income streams from these properties by other means. For one, they can occupy them as their primary residence and rent out rooms or casitas as STRs. For another, they can rent out entire houses for monthly, seasonal or long-term occupancy. Rental properties of this type would be welcome additions to our housing stock, which is in short supply and high demand. Visitors will continue to be welcome in Palm Desert. They will have access to more than 1000 STRs already permitted and the potential for more where HOAs allow them. Palm Desert residents can look forward lto getting back their neighbors and neighborhoods and the tranquil enjoyment of their homes, without the strangers, drunken parties, crime, trash and congestion that come all too often with unsupervised STRs operating as mini -motels. Please vote to amend the ordinance as approved at the first reading. Jann Buller Palm Desert N i7 O � j Sent from Mail for Windows 10 :COX. cm� CJ rn lD T X: n T c-n C UI __ Sanchez, Gloria From: melinda@melindaluthinlaw.com Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 4:42 PM To: CityhallMail; Bynder, Randy, CouncilMeeting Comments; Information Mail; Nestande, Gina; Kelly, Kathleen; Harnik, Jan; Jonathan, Sabby; Weber, Susan Marie; CouncilMeeting Comments; Sanchez, Gloria Cc: Rocha, Grace Subject: Proposed Ordinance No.1360. Attachments: We sent you safe versions of your files; Itr 2020.12.09 MI -Law to PD City Council Re Proposed STR Ordinance 1360.pdf Mimecast Attachment Protection has deemed this file to be safe, but always exercise caution when o ening files. Please assure delivery to ALL of the city council members before tomorrow's city co cil meeting. Melinda Luthin MELINDA LUTHIN ( LAW 2721 East Coast Highway, Suite 201 n� Corona del Mar, CA 92625 N (919) 673-1101. www.melindaluthinlaw.com ro W� > ,7 t .1 T - cn yK . 3 1 MELINDA, LUTHIN I LAW December 9, 2020 Via Email (cityhaB@cityofpalmdesert.org) Hon. ('Dina Nestande, Mayor Hon. Kathleen Kelly, Mayor Pro Tem Han. Jan Hamik, Council Member Hon. Sabby Jonathan, Council Member Hon. Susan Marie Weber, Council Member City Hall 73510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 Re: Opposition To Proposed Short Term Rental Business Regulation Ordinance Dear Mayor Nestande and Members of the City Council_ As you know, I represent Vacation Rental Owners & Neighbors of Palm Desert ("VRON- PD"), an organization whose members are homeowners and concerned citizens of Palm Desert. Although VRON PD and its members made extensive oral and written comments regarding the City Council's consideration of the Proposed Ordinance No. 1360 regarding Short Term Rentals ("STRs") in Pahm Desert. the City Council disregarded all of these comments and all of the comments made by others who are opposed to this this ordinance. In addition to the previous comments made to you, the following describes some of the additional issues with Proposed Ordinance No. 1360. The version of Proposed Ordinance No. 1360 that was included in the December 4, 2020 Staff report appears to be identical to the version included in the staff report posted on or around November 13, 2020, save for one peculiar image at the upper left hand comer of the fast page. This image is of some text, in a font size too small to be read by most people even if aided by a magnifying device. Because the image is not text recognized as required by the Government Code, character recognition software does not correctly convert the image to text. The image, converted into text, is as follows: "Waive firth er reading and pass to second reading Ord. No. 1360. ame ceding PDMC Ch, 5. 10 Short-term Rentals (STRs) implementing the following: a) Require the issuance of new STR Permits in PR zones to be supported by written approval from an HOA having jurisdiction over the property; b) existing STR permits within the PR zones (excluding On -site Owner STR Permits) without such a wri I I en approval letter shall lemlinate. and such uses permanently cease Palm Desert City Council Letter Re: Proposed Ordinance Banning STRs December 9, 2020 Page 2 operation after December 2 1. 202 1. Additionally, to instruct that in ORDINANCE NO. 1360 the administration of the Ordinance that any gated community where the City currently has STR permits, which have been verified to be compliant with HOA rules, the City take that to be compliant with the Ordinance unless and until the HOA demonstrates a change in policy to the City. Is this a mistake? A notation to staff? A suggested comment? Someone's reminder on a sticky note? The meaning and purpose of this nonsensical garbled text is unclear. In addition to the confusion regarding the recently published version of Proposed Ordinance 1360, VRON RM submits the following comments regarding the past council meeting. VRON RM renews its objection to Robert Hargreaves's involvement in this matter. As City ,Attorney. Mr. Hargreaves is charged with, among other things, preparing proposed ordinances, assuring that the substantive provisions of proposed ordinances comply with the laws and in assuring that the procedures for adopting ordinances are complied with. Mr. Hargreaves is flagrantly biased against STRs. If this were not made evident by our previous written comments, recent events confirm the, the extent of the unabashed bias of Mr. Hargreaves and his wife. In an article published in the Desert Sun, Mrs. Hargreaves is described as being "part of the leadership in opposition to short-term rentals in the city [where the Hargreaveses live]." The Desert Sun article contains two photographs of Mrs. Hargreaves: one showing her installing an illegal fence at the back of the yard of the house where she and City Attorney Robert Hargreaves live. The other photograph shows Mrs. Hargreaves standing proudly next to a sign that is stuck in the front yard of the house where she and Robert Hargreaves live, which reads: The failure to close the quotations is in the document, and was not an error resulting from the character recognition process. Palm Desert City Council Letter Re: Proposed Ordinance Banning STRs December 9, 2020 Page 3 The shear fact that this sign is in Mr. Hargreaves's yard, should be proof enough that his is bias against STRs is such that his participation in any way is a violation of not only the City's conflict of interest policies, but also a violation of the Fair Political Practices Act, and a violation of the STR permittees' constitutional rights. It has come to the attention of VRON PD that at least one STR permittee whose permit will not be renewed if Proposed Ordinance No. 1360 is adopted recently purchased her home in reliance on the City's assurance that her property could be used as an STR. To take away even the opportunity to obtain a license and to make a living, where the opportunity was communicated and assured, is fundamentally unfair and it offends both state and federal Constitutional protections. It has also come to the attention of VRON RM that the owners of several, if not all homes affected by Proposed Ordinance No. 1360 were not given any notice of any meeting or hearing on the matter. The zoning laws clearly state that the owners of all properties affected, as well as the owners in surrounding areas must receive personal notice. Palm Desert City Council Letter Re: Proposed Ordinance Banning STRs December 9, 2020 Page 4 In addition to the City's failure to provide personal notice, the City wholly failed to abide by the laws regarding amendments to land use. These laws require the proposed land use change to be first considered by the planning commission, at properly noticed planning commission hearings. The planning commission did not consider Ordinance 1360 at all. The law also requires the City to provide personal notice to affected landowners and landowners within certain areas and to post and publish notice of the City's Council's consideration of land use ordinances at least ten days before the hearing. The notice must include certain specific language. The City's notice did not contain the requisite language, was not posted, was not published, and was not sent to the persons to whom notice is required to be sent. Lastly, the City must permit STR permittees to continue to use their properties as STRs in accordance with the non -conforming use rules contained in the Municipal Code, the Government Code and in accordance with the state and federal Constitutional protections against unlawful taking of personal liberties and property rights. As previously stated multiple times, VRON-PD would be happy to meet with the City staff and/or City Council in order to create viable, effective changes to the STR ordinance that will promote the continuance of STRs in all neighborhoods and address actual issues associated with STR operations. Although future regulation and enhanced enforcement may be appropriate, Proposed STR Ordinance 1360 is inappropriate. For all of the above reasons, for the reasons contained in the previous written comments of VRON PD and its members, and for the reasons stated orally by VRON PD and its members, the City Council must not adopt Proposed STR Ordinance 1360. Yours truly, Melinda M. Luthin, Esq. of MELINDA LUTHINI LAW cc: Grace Rocha, City Clerk, erochaaa citvofnalmdesert.ore ATTACHMENT 12/9/2020 Palm Springs area short-term vacation rentals under fire amid COVID-19 Desert Sun, TOURISM A brewing ballot fight tops off heated debate over California desert vacation rentals Melissa Daniels Palm Springs Desert Sun Published 12:52 p.m. PT Dec. 5, 2020 1 Updated 1:25 p.m. PT Dec. 5, 2020 Longtime Cathedral City resident Teri Hargreaves is used to going all out to deal with the rotating cast of visitors at the short-term rental behind her house. She monitors the booking page to see what days are filled. She hung up a tarp outside to prevent people at the rental from being able to look into her backyard. She's recorded noisy revelers throwing parties that keep her up at night. Hargreaves even put up a sign on her front lawn: "Neighborhoods are for Neighbors NOT Short Term Vacation Rentals," one of at least a dozen that's been spotted in front of houses around the city this fall. "Unless you actually live near one, you have no idea what it's like," she said. 202o has been a roller coaster of a year for short-term rentals in the desert. While the pandemic shut down activity for much of the spring, a boom of tourists booked homes in the summer. Palm Springs, the valley city that typically gets the most revenue from overnight guests, received $2.6 million from taxes on vacation rentals, compared to $2.2 million from hotel -related occupancy taxes, from July to September. But city hotlines across the desert lit up with calls. That is at the crux of one of the most controversial policy debates raging across the Coachella Valley: Are vacation rentals an important boon to the tourist economy, or unruly mini -motels that disrupt neighborhoods? Small but vocal groups on both sides are waging a fierce battle as cities have tried to address the concerns. The city council in Rancho Mirage recently voted to phase out short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods without homeowners' associations, and hiked annual permit fees https:Itwww.desedsun.coMstorytmoneyibusinessltoudsm@020N 2/05/palm-springs-area-short-term-vacation-rentals-under-fira-amid-covid-191604637... 118 12192020 PdW SDdnp arn'sti&Mdrm_ aka0on rentafs.4nder f m'iiMld CWD49 .to $1,706. to Quintahas a moratorium on all new vacation rental,permits through`Feb. 2 and enacted stiffer fines. Palm Desert; which already bansvacation reritals.in sortie, neighborhoods,'exteniied,a inoratori-union' itew permits;in.others.. And after the Cathedral City Council unariiinously voted.to phase out short-ternn'rentals in non-HOAs in September, supporters gathered more than 3;500 .valid signatures to force,the council to overturn the ordinance or put.it to the city's voters. The council on Wednesday decided to. call for a`Special election for the referendum on March, 2. Hargreaves is part of the leadership of a group dubbed Cathedral City Residents that's organizing to oppose the ballot measure. They say vacation rentals disrupt life for full- time residents — and if it comes to,a vote, Hargreaves.thinks her side will win. "I personally feel the residents will be able to oppose the industry," Hargreaves said. "These are our neighborhoods." A pandemic -induced spike? According to figures in some "cities, calls and messages to Coachella Valley city hotlines over short-term .'rentals shot up this year as travelers descended on the desert. Each city has its own process.for responding to hotline calls., which aren't necessarily indicative of a real-time nuisance issue; a few calls in. Palm Springs during the loekdown, for example, were inquiries about local occupancy:rules. Some°calls might be made;about the` same house or incident. multiple times. In La Quinta, residents contacted the hotline:far more during the post-lockdown. summer than they did the year before. The.city received 676 calls and other mesages June to Labor Day, compared t0.212 the summer'before. The total number of vacation rentals can vary from month to month, oreven, day to day, as permits expire and new ones are issued, but La Quinta had around 1,285 vacation homes this fall compared to around.i,3o0 at the end of last year, with a moratorium on new permits instituted in August and in place through February. In Pahn'Desert,,there were 18 hotline calls in the summer of 2o2o,•compared to 71 the year before: ThecyaloawuntenumberofunpeM teihouses; with 76 homes were .not permitted in 2620 compared to 4o in 2oig.,In the'sameaimefzan e, there were:779 permitted homes in 2026, compared to 8og the year:before. V 1202020 Palm Springs areashort-term' a&bflon rentais,6ndecflre'amid.covla-19 In Rancho -Mirage; theremere,75 calls.this-summer`compared.to 29 the year before with roughly the -same amount of permitted houses=around-27o., Bruce Hoban, the co-founder'of the Vacation Rental Owners -and Neighbors of Palm Springs; said mmy.concerns have,settled down -after Labot Day,.as guests hawinellowed out. "There's. this pent-up crowd that came in the summer," Hoban said. "After'Labor Day, it was-..calm.again." He said those who are pushing to crack down on rentals now have a "July, August,mentaliW' that doesn't reflect the situation on the ground. That appeared to be the casein Palm Springs, where September saw 35 citations compared to 44 the year before; .October had 15 citations in both years. But residents are still lighting up the, hotline: September had i2o calls compared to 6o last year, and October had;go compared to 77lasi year. Palm Springs: After spike in vacation rental complaints, no.plans to change ordinance While the Palm Springs City Council has not taken up any possible changes to its ordinance this year, the city did modify how enforcement calls after-hours are routed in order to achieve faster- responses. The city's ordinance and, a "three strikes and you're oat" violation policy -is frequently held up as a model for enforcement in the desert and beyond. -Still, some 'in the city are pushing for an update to the rules; including former city Councilman JR Roberts who helped craft the original ordinance.. Hoban said he doesn't think the -movement to ban short-term rentals altogether will stick, citing the possibility for illegal shortAerm rentals. to crop up and cause more problems. He's, also hesitant to back the neighborhood -specific bans that some have. raised.as a possible solution, saying travelers seek a range of cost options for their rentals. "I think vacation rentals are appropriate anywhere as long as they are properly behaving,.and properly managed," he said. Cathedral City ballot fight looms Kaiyn. McQueen is vice president of I Love Cathedral City, a group'of°short-term rental owners and their supporters. A Bay Area resident with a home in Cathedral City that she uses herself and rents out,,McQueen is also involved with Share Cathedral City, the group that organized petitipasignatures to overturn the city's:phase-out. r. ;. 12 O12020 Palm' SDdngs area short term Vkatlon rentafs,onder fire'amld COVID•19 ' While Share'Cathedral City is readyingio back the bailotmeasure,. McQueen said she would've liked to see the city .come back, to_the bargaining table to comewith a stricter ,enforcement model, ' W,e want to be able to work with. everybody, to come-itp with a resolution that meets everybody's.needs," McQueen said. The fight over vacation rentals in Cathedral City dates back several years, but it reached a tipping point this September. In addition to the vote.to phase out non-HOA rentals; the city alsQhiked annual permit fees to $1,950, and raised the fines ,forwiolating regulations -or operating without a permit, with the proceeds :to help fund stepped-ap enforcement. Pahn'Springs voters resoundingly rejected a similar measure in 2018 that would have banned vacation rentals in the city's residential neighborhoods. The crackdown may already behaving an effect: Some short-term rentals owners may be selling theirhomes or finding long-term renters. Cathedral Cityhad around 400 rentals when, it passed the ban, it's now down to about goo as of late October. McQueen said getting r"id of short-term, rentals is a,poor.economic choice — not only could it drive. tourists away from Cathedral City, but -many vacation rental ownersAise the profits to cover their mortgage. She said it's "unreasonable andunrealistic" to suggest.they should sell their.homes because of apolicy change. "I'don't think that's a fair conversation to have with.people who've purchased their homes," .she said. Omthe ballot: Cathedral City voters to decide fate of short-term vacation rentals -lit Mardi 'special election Additionally,; she: said residents who have issues with vacation homes get used to having empty homes next to them and are disrupted when they're filled.. "I would rather have someone who is annoying be next door to me for two days than eight years;" McQueen said. Doug Evans, a longtime Cathedral Cityresident. and, former city planner in to Quinta, is ,helping lead, the°group with Hargreaves. that supports .the please -out: On his street in the Panorama neighboiliood, he counts abouta4 properops,.including .several homes that he' believes :operate as unlicensed:vacatioh rentals. ,His grown childf,6ware r s 12/912020 Palm Springs area short-term"vacation rentals undeefire affil&COVID=19- hesitant to visit,because of the noise from vacationingneighbors;:he said. That's why Evans, like. Hargreaves, has spent several years, looking to fight off vacation rentals at city hall. "There are very few times as a homeowner in your, life you have to: fight for your home," Evans said. He said short-term rental owners don't have to live with the noise.or,nuisance their guests' cause. "The problem occurs and the best they can do is make.a phone call,"'he said. Evans and others in Cathedral City residents havehlasted "corporate interests" for backing the push to keep short-term rentals afoot. But some of those in the vacation rental industry make it clear they're open to restrictions as,necessary.; Richard de Sam Lazaro, California policy director'for Expedia Group that includes vacation rental platform VRBO, said party houses are a "significant problem" that,the company doesn't want to see any more than the neighbors do. But there's -no one -size -fits -all policy for vacation rental regulation and enforcement, he said. "This is an active conversation in so many jurisdictions, and everyone is different," de. Sam Lazaro said. "The concerns from one city to another vary, as do the policy solutions." A new, ban in Rancho Mirage In Rancho Mirage, the City Council voted 4-1 to phase out vacation rentals in non - homeowners associations on Nov. 5, affecting 121 properties -A few -weeks later, the city hiked fees for annual permits from $399 to $i,yoo, the second -highest in the desert after Cathedral City. Some vacation rental owners say the city is overreacting..Resident and rental property owner Louisa Davis is spearheading a newly formed group called Vacation Rental. Owners and Neighbors of Rancho Mirage, modeled after Hoban's.group in Palm Springs. Davis said instead of a phase=out, she'd like'to see more enforcement — such as a fine issued directly to the guests who are committing.a noise.. violabon.'Currently; Palm Springs.has such a policy while La Quium, Rancho Mirage. and Cathedral City do not. ,� 1202020 Palro Springs area shorrtterm'vacation rentals under fire amid COVID•19 "We as owners want (stricter rules)" she said. "We want to figure out, in all the -cities, how we can be a part of the community." .Another possible enforcement mechanism that Davis would support is a three -night minimum; a similar measure was put into place m Newport Beach this year as part of an overhaul to its vacation, rental rules. Davis has five vacation rental properties in the desert and manages multiple.others — after renting out her own home in Rancho Mirage a few years ago, her neighbors also got involved in renting their properties, Davis said. At her properties, guests agree to be responsible for any city fines incurred during their stay as well as an additional fine to Davis. She operates with strict rules in place, mostly entering into contracts with families and steering clear of bachelorettes. "The guests and the neighbors are my two priorities," she said. Davis said she doesn't think the number of citations.merit the phase -out that was passed. While Rancho Mirage had roughly 270 vacation rentals in both 20i9 and 2020, the city issued 29 citations to permit holders in 2oig and 12 in .2020, according to city documents obtained by Davis' group and shared with The Desert Sun. Some of those were for administrative reasons like failing to submit tax reports on time, but half of the citations issued to permit holders this year were for loud outdoor music. The city issued 17 citations to non -permit holders in 2020, and 29 in 201.9. Mike Ziskind,'a former'Pahn Springs resident who rallied against rentals there, moved to Rancho Mirage and now leads a'group called Neighbors of Rancho Mirage that sent out mailers to residents pushing support for the new rules. He said task forces, committees and ordinance rewrites haven't gone far enough. "These are noisy, incompatible for -profit businesses," Ziskind said in a statement. "They are approved by the city without zoning hearings, transparency or citizen input." Efforts in other valley cities Indio leaders recently discussed measures to improve the short-term rental industry, but none are codified yet. Steps include requiring property owners to live about 30 minutes from a site and notifying homeowners of new rental properties if within,5oo, yards. 12/9/2020 palm Springs area short-term vacation rentals under fire amld COVID-19 "We don't want to be heavy-handed, but we want to make sure people are in compliance and everyone is treated equal," Indio Mayor Glenn Miller said. "It's gonna be a give and take. We do enjoy short term rentals._ The, city of Indio could not exist" as the City of Festivals without it." His city had at least 327 hotline calls since March with around 74o vacation rentals citywide; although city staff said'about 5o% of them were associated with non -licensed properties. The city has 40 fewer permitted homes then it did last year. Miller said he thinks the desert's resort atmosphere would have attracted a surge of visitors regardless of the pandemic. The area was attractive to people escaping smoky conditions during this summer's wildfires, he said. "We have no problem with (short-term rentals). We just want to make them better partners with the people," Miller said. Rancho Mirage: City to'ban STRs in non -gated, residential neighborhoods La Quinta: Stiffer penalties, fines proposed for problem short-term rentals In La Quinta, a short-term vacation rental ad hoc committee is expected to present additional recommendations on Dec.15, following a decision to create stiffer fines for violations. City Manager Jon McMillen said the majority of complaints in his city are noise -related; the new fee hikes made the first violation for loud music $1,000 instead of $5oo. Data from the city of La Quinta shows that far more citations have been issued in the summer and fall this year compared to last: there were 45 citations in September and October of this year, compared to ii and io last year. McMillen thinks since people can't partake in activities like concerts or movies, they opt to rent and relax in vacation homes, which has driven up activity. "They get a rental out here and all of a sudden, they think it's a party," McMillen said. But rental properties are spread out in different parts of the city and no single rule could apply to all of them, McMillen said. Some HOAs, for example, allow rentals and have their own guidelines, he said. For the most part, property owners'have been cooperative. 12/912020 Palm Springs area short-term vacation rentals under fire amid COVID-19 "I'm hearing about less and less complaints," McMillen said in October. Staff writers Colin Atagi contributed to this report. Melissa Daniels covers economic development, hospitality and local business in the Coachella Valley. She can be reached at (76o)-567 8458, melissa.daniels@desertsun.com, or on Twitter @melissamdaniels. Cathedral CIty residents Teri Hargreaves Doug Evans stand with a sign opposhrg short-term rentals on Monday, November 9, 2020. Hargreaves and Evans are part of the leadership in opposition to short-term rentals in the City. Vickie Connor/The Desert Sun https:IAw .deserisun.can/story/moneylbusinessAmrisM202Oil2lO6ipalm-springsarea-short-temrvaeation-rentals-under-fire-amid-covid-19/604637... 8/8 Cathedral City resident Teri Hargreaves stands on a ladder and extends the tarp curtain she and her husband created as a barrier between their home and the Airbnb home directly behind them on Monday, November 9, 2020. Hargreaves is part of the leadership in opposition to short-term rentals in the city. A short-term rental home is located directly behind her home. Vickie ConnorlfheDeserl Sun Sanchez, Gloria From: hluu1217@aol.com Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 5:15 PM To: bynder@cityofpal mdesert.org; Nestande, Gina; Kelly, Kathleen; Harnik, Jan; Jonathan, Sabby; CouncilMeeting Comments; Information Mail; Rocha, Grace Subject: To the City Council Members To the City Council, Please add this into the record for tomorrow's meeting, 12/10/2020 regarding ordinance 1360: Are you prepared to make me whole if you pass Ordinance 1360? I bought my house in December of 2019 with the purposes of short term renting. The listing stated "STR approved area" and the owner even received a permit from the city to prove. Inside the house they had copies of the permit showing STR compatibility. I called Kevin Swartz to verify that our house would be in a zone that is approved for STR's and he assured me that it was. We then went ahead with the purchase, with Kevin's reassurance. Our initial investment was $132,5000. We then decided to invest an additional $200,000 in improvements throughout the house, which we hired all local contractors for. We redid the kitchen, bathrooms, removed grass to make our home more eco-friendly, made improvements to the front and back yards, fixed all issues found during our inspection, and so on. We could not rent the house out until June because of COVID, which means we have not been operating for most of the year. We have been unable to recoup even a fraction of our investment. In addition, we had to maintain the house and pay cleaners, gardeners, and for pool maintenance. Is the city ready to write me a check for $400,000? What if I cannot sell my house or find a renter when the permit is revoked? Will the city write me a check to buy my home or provide me assistance? A 1 year sunset clause is NOT enough time. I thank you for your time, Hieu Luu O :Cox O r""=My fit 3 ^m -or- o �T ` w .. Sanchez, Gloria From: RobertZ <robertz@optixiwear.com> Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 8:13 PM To: Rocha, Grace; CouncilMeeting Comments; Sanchez, Gloria Cc: RobertZ; info@vronpd Subject: STIR City Council Meeting Dec 10, 2020 Attachments: We sent you safe versions of your files; Palm Desert Zoom Call Dec 2020.docx Mimecast Attachment Protection has deemed this file to be safe, but always exercise caution when opening files. To the City Council of Palm Desert, Please submit for the record, my attached letter for the City Council of Palm Desert to read and file regarding the continuation of Short Term Rentals. I would also like to be placed on the list to speak during the appropriate time during the City Council meeting on Dec 10, 2020. Thank you, Robert Zakheim December 9, 2020 Good evening Mayor, Mayor Pro Tern, and Council members. I am an owner of a private home in our beautiful City of Palm Desert. My wife and I purchased a home in Palm Desert after renting homes Short Term, to spend time with our family under one roof. We have 2 wonderful adult daughters, 2 great Bon- in -laws and 3 fabulous grandchildren. The goal for our retirement is to make Palm Desert a more permanent residence. We anticipate our family enjoying all aspects of the desert lifestyle for years to come. We are part of the vacation rental community VRON-PD (Vacation Rental Owners & Neighbors- Palm Desert). We have guests renting our home Short Term thru Airbnb and VRBO. Without the capabilities of renting Short Term, we will probably be unable to maintain the costs of carrying 2 mortgages. Our retirement dreams will become a nightmare. Full time residents have been given an opportunity to raise their objections regarding STR's... while we, as Short Term Hosts, have had no representation to discuss with the Council, nor with our neighbors, to resolve any issues that have been disturbing the community. The negative ramifications of removing STR's will be detrimental to everyone in our City. Not only do we pay property taxes, we collect taxes from our guests in the millions.... where will the City make up that deficit? Our guests spend a tremendous amount of money ordering Uber Eats from local restaurants, dining out when available, shopping at local retailers and markets and visiting attractions that are currently open! Without the influx of dollars by our guests, we will see many local businesses close their doors. In addition, our home is maintained by local vendors.... what will happen to their jobs and businesses? With the horrible Pandemic we are all living through, now is not the time to even consider any action regarding a possibility of removing STR's. Many of our guests are families wanting to get away from the 4 walls they have been staring at for months. The cost savings of staying in a home versus hotel rooms, in addition to the privacy, health and welfare of all family members... are a few of the advantages for continuing the Short Term Rental Program. At what point will the other STR areas cease to exist? Shouldn't both sides sit together with the Newly Elected City Council to come to an amicable solution? This should be done before tourism and our guests leave Palm Desert to travel to other cities who welcome STR's. Thank you for your time, Robert Zakheim Sanchez, Gloria From: melinda@melindaluthinlaw.com Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 8:40 PM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: PLEASE REPLACE LETTER PREVIOUSLY SENT WITH THE ATTACHED. RE: Mtg. of 12/10/2020 - Action Calendar No. 18 - Ord. No. 1360 - Short Term Rentals (STRs) - Proposed Ordinance No. 1360. Attachments: We sent you safe versions of your files; Itr 2020.12.09 MLLaw to PD City Council Re Proposed STR Ordinance 1360 r.pdf Importance: High Mimecast Attachment Protection has deemed this file to be safe, but always exercise caution when opening files PLEASE REPLACE LETTER PREVIOUSLY SENT WITH THE ATTACHED. Thank you 0 Melinda luthin N o a � n rm MELINDA LUTHIN 1 LAW O r"M rnaa-i cn yc _-, 2721 East Coast Highway, Suite 201 = m - E ^m Corona del Mar, CA 92625 , 7 (949) 673-1161 J www.melindaluthinlaw.com From: CouncilMeetingComments@cityofpalmdesert.org <CouncilMeetingComments@cityofpalmdesert.org> Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 5:58 PM To: melinda@melindaluthinlaw.com Subject: RE: Mtg. of 12/10/2020 - Action Calendar No. 18 - Ord. No. 1360 - Short Term Rentals (STRs) - Proposed Ordinance No. 1360. Thank you. Your e-mail and letter will be made part of the record, and forwarded to the City Council and staff. M. Gloria Sanchez Acting Deputy City Clerk Ph:760.346.0611 Direct:760.776.6354 gsanchez@cityofpalmdesert.org From: melinda@melindaluthinlaw.com <melinda@melindaluthinlaw.com> Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 4:42 PM To: CityhallMail <Citvhall@citvofoalmdesert.org>; Bynder, Randy <rbvnder@citvofpalmdesert.org>; CouncilMeeting Comments <CouncilMeetingComments@citvofoalmdesert.org>; Information Mail <info@citvofpalmdesert.org>; Nestande, Gina<gnestande@citvofoalmdesert.org>; Kelly, Kathleen <kkelly@cityofpalmdesert.org>; Harnik, Jan <iharnik@citvofoalmdesert.org>; Jonathan, Sabby <sjonathan@cityofpalmdesertorg>; Weber, Susan Marie <sweber@citvofoalmdesert.org>;CouncilMeeting Comments <CouncilMeetingComments@citvofpalmdesert.org>; Sanchez, Gloria <gsanchez@cityofpalmdesert.oM> Cc: Rocha, Grace <grocha@citvofoalmdesert.ore_> Subject: Proposed Ordinance No. 1360. Mimecast Attachment Protection has deemed this file to be safe, but always exercise caution when opening files. Please assure delivery to ALL of the city council members before tomorrow's city council meeting. Melinda Luthin MELINDA LUTHIN I LAW 2721 East Coast Highway, Suite 201 Corona del Mar, CA 92625 (949)673-1161 www.melindaluthinlaw.com 2 M E LI"DA LUTH I N L LAW December 9, 2020 Via Email (cityhall@cityofpalmdesert.org) Hon. Gina Nestande, Mayor Hon- Kathleen Kelly, Mayor Pro Tem Hon. Jan Hamik, Council Member Hon. Sabby Jonathan, Council Member Hon. Susan Marie Weber, Council Member City Hall 73510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 Re: Opposition To Proposed Short Term Rental Business Regulation Ordinance Dear Mayor Nestande and Members of the City Council: As you know, I represent Vacation Rental Owners & Neighbors of Palm Desert ("VRON- PD'), an organization whose members are homeowners and concerned citizens of Palm Desert. Although VRON PD and its members made extensive oral and written comments regarding the City Council's consideration of the Proposed Ordinance No. 1360 regarding Short Term Rentals ("STRs") in Palm Desert- the City Council disregarded all of these comments and all of the comments made by others who are opposed to this this ordinance. In addition to the previous comments made to you, the following describes some of the additional issues with Proposed Ordinance No. 1360. The version of Proposed Ordinance No. 1360 that was included in the December 4, 2020 Staff report appears to be identical to the version included in the staff report posted on or around November 13, 2020, save for one peculiar image at the upper left hand comer of the fast page. This image is of some text, in a font size too small to be read by most people even if aided by a magnifying device. Because the image is not text recognized as required by the Government Code, character recognition software does not correctly convert the image to text. The image, converted into text, is as follows: "Waive finth er reading and pass to second reading Ord. No. 1360. ame nding PDMC Ch. 5. 10 Short-term Rentals (STRs) implementing the following: a) Require the issuance of new STR Pewits in PR zones to be supported by written approval from an HOA having jurisdiction over the property, b) existing STR permits within the PR zones (excluding On -site Owner STR Permits) without such a wri 11 en approval letter shall lemlinate. and such uses permanently Nave Palm Desert City Council Letter Re: Proposed Ordinance Banning STRs December 9, 2020 Page 2 operation after December 2 1. 202 1. Additionally, to instruct that in ORDINANCE NO. 1360 the administration of the Ordinance that any gated community where the City currently has STR permits, which have been verified to be compliant with HOA rules, the City take that to be compliant with the Ordinance unless and until the HOA demonstrates a change in policy to the City.' Is this a mistake? A notation to staff? A suggested comment? Someone's reminder on a sticky note? The meaning and purpose of this nonsensical garbled text is unclear. In addition to the confusion regarding the recently published version of Proposed Ordinance 1360, VRON PD submits the following comments regarding the past council meeting. VRON PD renews its objection to Robert Hargreaves's involvement in this matter. As City Attorney. Mr. Hargreaves is charged with, among other things, preparing proposed ordinances, assuring that the substantive provisions of proposed ordinances comply with the laws and in assuring that the procedures for adopting ordinances are complied with. Mr. Hargreaves is flagrantly biased against STRs. If this were not made evident by our previous written continents, recent events confirm the, the extent of the unabashed bias of Mr. Hargreaves and his wife. In an article published in the Desert Sun, Mrs. Hargreaves is described as being "part of the leadership in opposition to short-term rentals in the city [where the Hargreaveses live]." The Desert Sun article contains two photographs of Mrs. Hargreaves: one showing her installing an illegal fence at the back of the yard of the house where she and City Attorney Robert Hargreaves live. The other photograph shows Mrs. Hargreaves standing proudly next to a sign that is stuck in the front yard of the house where she and Robert Hargreaves live, which reads: The failure to close the quotations is in the document, and was not an error resulting from the character recognition process. Palm Desert City Council Letter Re: Proposed Ordinance Banning STRs December 9, 2020 Page 3 The shear fact that this sign is in Mr. Hargreaves's yard, should be proof enough that his is bias against STRs is such that his participation in any way is a violation of not only the City's conflict of interest policies, but also a violation of the Fair Political Practices Act, and a violation of the STR permittees' constitutional rights. It has come to the attention of VRON PD that at least one STR permittee whose permit will not be renewed if Proposed Ordinance No. 1360 is adopted recently purchased her home in reliance on the City's assurance that her property could be used as an STR. To take away even the opportunity to obtain a license and to make a living, where the opportunity was communicated and assured, is fundamentally unfair and it offends both state and federal Constitutional protections. It has also come to the attention of VRON PD that the owners of several, if not all homes affected by Proposed Ordinance No. 1360 were not given any notice of any meeting or hearing on the matter. The zoning laws clearly state that the owners of all properties affected, as well as the owners in surrounding areas must receive personal notice. Palm Desert City Council Letter Re: Proposed Ordinance Banning STRs December 9, 2020 Page 4 In addition to the City's failure to provide personal notice, the City wholly failed to abide by the laws regarding amendments to land use. These laws require the proposed land use change to be first considered by the planning commission, at properly noticed planning commission hearings. The planning commission did not consider Ordinance 1360 at all. The law also requires the City to provide personal notice to affected landowners and landowners within certain areas and to post and publish notice of the City's Council's consideration of land use ordinances at least ten days before the hearing. The notice must include certain specific language. The City's notice did not contain the requisite language, was not posted, was not published, and was not sent to the persons to whom notice is required to be sent. Additionally, the City must permit STR pemuttees to continue to use their properties as STRs in accordance with the non -conforming use rules contained in the Municipal Code, the Government Code and in accordance with the state and federal Constitutional protections against unlawful taking of personal liberties and property rights. Lastly and importantly, City staff has been proclaiming that there is some sort of City STR "policy," that states that several neighborhoods that are zoned PR that, "for all intents and purposes function the same as R-I and R-2 neighborhoods." There is no such policy and, contrary to staff s contention, the only finding the City has made regarding STRs in PR neighborhoods, is the 2017 staff finding that, unlike properties located in R-1 and R-2 zones, STRs are compatible In PR neighborhoods. I have attached a copy of the 2017 City staff report that makes this explicit finding. It is disingenuous for staff to now make the opposite contention and pretend as if this false contention has been the City's "policy" all along. As previously stated multiple times, VRON-PD would be happy to meet with the City staff and/or City Council in order to create viable, effective changes to the STR ordinance that will promote the continuance of STRs in all neighborhoods and address actual issues associated with STR operations. Although future regulation and enhanced enforcement may be appropriate, Proposed STR Ordinance 1360 is inappropriate. For all of the above reasons, for the reasons contained in the previous written comments of VRON PD and its members, and for the reasons Palm Desert City Council Letter Re: Proposed Ordinance Banning STRs December 9, 2020 Page 5 stated orally by VRON PD and its members, the City Council must not adopt Proposed STR Ordinance 1360. Yours truly, Melinda M. Luthin, Esq. of MELINDA LUTHINI LAW cc: Grace Rocha, City Clerk, prochat@citvofDaltndesert.org ATTACHMENT 12021120 Palm Springs area shortlerm vacedon rentals viler Ike amid COVID-19 Desert Sun. TOURISM A brewing ballot fight tops off heated debate over California desert vacation rentals Melissa Daniels Palm Springs Desert Sun Published 12:52 p.m. PT Dec. 5.2020 1 Updated 1:25 P.M. PT Dec. 5, 2020 Longtime Cathedral City resident Teri Hargreaves is used to going all out to deal with the rotating cast of visitors at the short-term rental behind her house. She monitors the booking page to see what days are filled. She hung up a tarp outside to prevent people at the rental from being able to look into her backyard. She's recorded noisy revelers throwing parties that keep her up at night. Hargreaves even put up a sign on her front lawn: "Neighborhoods are for Neighbors NOT Short Term Vacation Rentals," one of at least a dozen that's been spotted in front of houses around the city this fall. "Unless you actually live near one, you have no idea what it's like," she said. 202o has been a roller coaster of a year for short-term rentals in the desert. While the pandemic shut down activity for much of the spring, a boom of tourists booked homes in the summer. Palm Springs, the valley city that typically gets the most revenue from overnight guests, received $2.6 million from taxes on vacation rentals, compared to $2.2 million from hotel -related occupancy taxes, from July to September. But city hotlines across the desert lit up with calls. That is at the crux of one of the most controversial policy debates raging across the Coachella Valley: Are vacation rentals an important boon to the tourist economy, or unruly mini -motels that disrupt neighborhoods? Small but vocal groups on both sides are waging a fierce battle as tides have tried to address the concerns. The city council in Rancho Mirage recently voted to phase out short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods without homeowners' associations, and hiked annual permit fees tt4wlMvw.oeoeneW.00hstay/moneyrDueineartawarW 02011ZWpalm-Wings-arse-wortAen-vo rentol&ANXW-dre-emK cov4d-1WSM37... 1/8 12IM020 Palm Springs area short-term vacstion rentals under Cre amid (AVID-19 to $1,700. La Quinta has a moratorium on all new vacation rental permits through Feb. 2 and enacted stiffer fines. Palm Desert, which already bans vacation rentals in some neighborhoods, extended a moratorium on new permits in others. And after the Cathedral City Council unanimously voted to phase out short-term rentals in non-HOAs in September, supporters gathered more than 3,5oo valid signatures to force the council to overturn the ordinance or put it to the city's voters. The council on Wednesday decided to call for a special election for the referendum on March 2. Hargreaves is part of the leadership of a group dubbed Cathedral City Residents that's organizing to oppose the ballot measure. They say vacation rentals .disrupt life for full- time residents — and if it comes to a vote, Hargreaves thinks her side will win. "I personally feel the residents will be able to oppose the industry," Hargreaves said. "These are our neighborhoods." A pandemic -induced spike? According to figures in some cities, calls and messages to Coachella Valley city hotlines over short-term rentals shot up this year as travelers descended on the desert. Each city has its own process for responding to hotline calls, which aren't necessarily indicative of a real-time nuisance issue; a few calls in Palm Springs during the lockdown, for example, were inquiries about local occupancy rules. Some calls might be made about the same house or incident multiple times. In La Quinta, residents contacted the hotline far more during the post-lockdown summer than they did the year before. The city received 676 calls and other mesages June to Labor Day, compared to 21.2 the summer before. The total number.of vacation rentals can vary from month to month, or even day to day, as permits expire and new ones are issued, but La Quinta had around 1,285 vacation homes this fall compared to around 1,3oo at the end of last year, with a moratorium on new permits instituted in August and in place through February. In Palm Desert, there were 118 hotline calls in the summer of 2020, compared to yi the year before. The city also saw a jump in the number of unpermitted houses, with 76 homes were not permitted in 2020 compared to 40 in 2019. In the same timeframe, there were 779 permitted homes in 2020, compared to 8og the year before. 12MO20 Palm Springs areatftrt-term vacation rentals wxler fire amid COVID49 In Rancho Mirage, there were 75 calls this summer compared to 29 the year before with roughly the same amount of permitted houses around.27o. Bruce Hoban, the co-founder of the Vacation Rental Owners and Neighbors of Palm Springs, said many concerns have settled down after Labor Day, as guests have mellowed out. "There's this pent-up crowd that came in the summer," Hoban said. "After Labor Day, it was calm again." He said those who are pushing to crack down on rentals now have a "July, August mentality" that doesn't reflect the situation on the ground. That appeared to be the case in Palm Springs, where September saw 35 citations compared to 44 the year before; October had 15 citations in both years. But residents are still lighting up the hotline: September had 12o calls compared to 6o last year, and October had 90 compared to 77last year. Palm Springs: After spike in vacation rental complaints, no plans to change ordinance While the Palm Springs City Council has not taken up any possible changes to its ordinance this year, the city did modify how enforcement calls after-hours are routed in order to achieve faster responses. The city's ordinance and a "three strikes and you're out" violation policy is frequently held up as a model for enforcement in the desert and beyond. Still, some in the city are pushing for an update to the rules, including former city Councilman JR Roberts who helped craft the original ordinance. Hoban said he doesn't think the movement to ban short-term rentals altogether will stick, citing the possibility for illegal short-term rentals to crop up and cause more problems. He's also hesitant to back the neighborhood -specific bans that some have raised as.a possible solution, saying travelers seek a range of cost options for their rentals. "I think vacation rentals are appropriate anywhere as long as they are properly behaving, and properly managed," he said. Cathedral City ballot fight looms Karyn McQueen is vice president of I Love Cathedral City, a group of short-term rental owners and their supporters. A Bay Area resident with a home in Cathedral City that she uses herself and rents out, McQueen is also involved with Share Cathedral City, the group that organized petition signatures to overturn the city's phase=out. 12M020 Palm Spdrigs area short-term vacation rentals under fire avid COVIO-19 While Share Cathedral City is readyingto back the ballot measure, McQueen said she would've liked to see the city come back to the bargaining table to come with a stricter enforcement model. "We want to be able to work with everybody, to come up with a resolution that meets everybody's needs," McQueen said. _ The fight over vacation rentals in Cathedral City dates back several years, but it reached a tipping point this September. In addition to the vote to phase out non-HOA rentals, the city also hiked annual permit fees to $1,950, and raised the fines for violating regulations or operating without a permit, with the proceeds to help fund stepped -.up enforcement. Palm Springs voters resoundingly rejected a similar measure in 2018 that would have banned vacation rentals in the city's residential neighborhoods. The crackdown may already be having an effect: Some short-term rentals owners maybe selling their homes or finding long-term renters. Cathedral City had around 40o rentals when it passed the ban, it's now down to about goo as of late October. McQueen said getting rid of short-term rentals is a poor economic choice — not only could it drive tourists away from Cathedral City, but many vacation rental owners use the profits to cover their mortgage. She said it's "unreasonable and unrealistic" to suggest they should sell their homes because of a policy change. "I don't think that's a fair conversation to have with people who've purchased their homes, she said. On the ballot: Cathedral City voters to decide fate of short-term vacation rentals in March special election Additionally, she said residents who have issues with vacation homes get used to having empty homes next to them and are disrupted when they're filled. "I would rather have someone who is annoying be next door to me for two days than eight years," McQueen said. Doug Evans, a longtime Cathedral City'resident and former city planner in La Quinta, is helping lead the group with Hargreaves that -supports the phase -out. On his street in the Panorama neighborhood, he counts about 14 properties, including several 'homes that he believes operate as unlicensed vacation rentals. His grown children are 12MO20 Pahri Springs area'sharWerrn iscatmn rentals under fire amid COVIO.19 hesitant to visit because of the noise from vacationing neighbors, he said. That's why Evans, like Hargreaves, has spent several years looking to fight off vacation rentals at city hall. "There are very few times as a homeowner in your life you have to fight for your home," Evans said. He said short-term rental owners don't have to live with the noise or nuisance their guests' cause. "The problem occurs and the best they can do is make,a phone call," he said. Evans and others in Cathedral City residents have blasted "corporate interests" for backing the push to keep short-term rentals afoot. But some of those in the vacation rental industry make it clear they're open to restrictions as necessary. Richard de Sam Lazaro, California policy director for Expedia Group that includes vacation rental platform VRBO, said party houses are a "significant problem" that the company doesn't want to see any more than the neighbors do. But there's no one -size -fits -all policy for vacation rental regulation and enforcement, he said. "This is an active conversation in so many jurisdictions, and everyone is different," de Sam Lazaro said. "The concerns from one city to another vary, as do the policy solutions." A new ban in Rancho Mirage In Rancho Mirage, the City Council voted 4-1 to phase out vacation rentals in non - homeowners associations on Nov. 5, affecting 121 properties. A few weeks later, the city hiked fees for annual permits from $399 to $1,700, the second -highest in the desert after Cathedral City. Some vacation rental owners say the city is overreacting. Resident and rental property owner Louisa Davis is spearheading a newly formed group called Vacation Rental Owners and Neighbors of Rancho Mirage, modeled after Hoban's group in Palm Springs. Davis said instead of a phase -out, she'd like to see more enforcement — such as a fine issued directly to the guests who are committing a noise violation. Currently, Palm Springs has such a policy while La Quinta, Rancho. Mirage and Cathedral City do not. 12IM020 Palm Spdrigs area shdrWerm vacstien rentals under Ore'amld COMD-19 "We as owners want (stricter rules)" she said. "We want to figure out, in all the cities, how we can be a part of the community." Another possible enforcement mechanism that. Davis would support is a three -night - minimum; a similar measure was put into place in Newport Beach this year as part of an overhaul to its vacation rental rules. Davis has five vacation rental properties in the desert and manages multiple others — after renting out her own home in Rancho Mirage a few years ago, her neighbors also got involved in renting their properties, Davis said. At her properties, guests agree to be responsible for any city fines incurred during their stay as well as an additional fine to Davis. She operates with strict rules in place, mostly entering into contracts with families and steering clear of bachelorettes. "The guests and the neighbors are my two priorities," she said. Davis said she doesn't think the number of citations merit the phase -out that was passed. While Rancho Mirage had roughly 270 vacation rentals in both 2oi9 and 2020, the city issued 29 citations to permit holders in 2oi9 and 12 in 2020, according to city documents obtained by Davis' group and shared with The Desert Sun. Some of those were for administrative reasons like failing to submit tax reports on time, but half of the citations issued to permit holders this year were for loud outdoor music. The city issued 17 citations to non -permit holders in 2020, and 29 in 2019. Mike Ziskind, a former Palm Springs resident who rallied against rentals there, moved to Rancho Mirage and now leads a group called Neighbors of Rancho Mirage that sent out mailers to residents pushing support for the new rules. He said task forces, committees and ordinance rewrites haven't gone far enough. "These are noisy, incompatible for -profit businesses," Ziskind said in a statement. "They are approved by the city without zoning hearings, transparency or citizen input." Efforts in other valley cities Indio leaders recently discussed measures to improve the short-term rental industry, but none are codified yet. Steps include requiring property owners to live about 30 minutes from a site and notifying homeowners of new rental properties if within Soo yards. 12MO20 Palm Springs area short4erm vacation rentals under Ore amid COMD-19 "We don't want to be heavy-handed, but we want to make sure people are in compliance and everyone is treated equal," Indio Mayor Glenn Miller said. "It's gonna be a give and take. We do enjoy short term rentals. The city of Indio could not exist as the City of Festivals without it." His city had at least 327 hotline calls since March with around 74o vacation rentals citywide, although city staff said about 50% of them were associated with non -licensed properties. The city has 40 fewer permitted homes then it did last year. Miller said he thinks the desert's resort atmosphere would have attracted a surge of visitors regardless of the pandemic. The area was attractive to people escaping smoky conditions during this summer's wildfires, he said. "We have no problem with (short-term rentals). We just want to make them better partners with the people," Miller said. Rancho Mirage: City to ban STRs in non -gated, residential neighborhoods La Quinta: Stiffer penalties, fines proposed for problem short-term rentals In La Quinta, a short-term vacation rental ad hoc committee is expected to present additional recommendations on Dec.15, following a decision to create stiffer fines for violations. City Manager Jon McMillen said the majority of complaints in his city are noise -related; the new fee hikes made the first violation for loud music $i,000 instead of $Soo. Data from the city of La Quinta shows that far more citations have been issued in the summer and fall this year compared to last: there were 45 citations in September and October of this year, compared to 1i and 10 last year. McMillen thinks since people can't partake in activities like concerts or movies, they opt to rent and relax in vacation homes, which has driven up activity. "They get a rental out here and all of a sudden, they think it's a party," McMillen said. But rental properties are spread out in different parts of the city and no single rule could apply to all of them, McMillen said. Some HOAs, for example, allow rentals and have their own guidelines; he said. For the most part, property owners have been cooperative. 121WO20 Palen Sprvgs area short-term vacation rentals under fire amid COMMA 9 "I'm hearing about less and less complaints," McMillen said in October. Staff writers Colin Atagi contributed to this report. Melissa Daniels covers economic development, hospitality and local business in the Coachella Valley. She can be reached at (76o)-567 8458, melissa.daniels@desertsun.com, or on Twitter @melissamdaniels. Cathedral City residents Teri Hargreaves Doug Evans stand with a sign opposing short-term rentals on Monday, November 9, 202.0. Hargreaves and Evans are part of the leadership in opposition to short-term rentals in the City. Vickie Connor/The Desert Sun tatpaJl~deserleun&B Cathedral City resident Teri liargreawes stands on a ladder and extends the tarp curtain she and her husband created as a barrier between their home and the Aubub dome directly behind them on Monday. NoivmW 9, 2020. Hargreaves is part of the leadership in opposition to short-term rentals in the city. A short-term rental home is located directly behind her home. Vicl¢e ConwrlAeDeserfSun ORDINANCE No, 1332 STAFF REPORT CITY OF PALM DESERT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT MEETING DATE: October 26, 2017 REQUEST: CONSIDERATION TOAPPROVEONE OFTHE RECOMMENDATIONS BELOW REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 5.10 SHORT-TERM RENTALS FOR ENFORCEMENT. OPERATIONAL STANDARDS, COMMUNICATION, AND DENSITY REQUIREMENTS FOR SHORT-TERM RENTALS WITHIN THE CITY OF PALM DESERT. Recommendation 1. Waive further reading and pass to second reading either option "A" or "B" (below) of Ordinance No, 1332 to amend Palm Desert Municipal Code Chapter 5.10 regulating Short -Term Rentals (STRs); A. Ad Hoc Committee Recommendation (Prior to Commencing Public Hearing Process): (Version One). Amending Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals to implement best practices in management and creating a buffer/separation of 500 feet within the Residential Single -Family (R-1) zone and a bufferlseparation of 300 feet within the Residential Mixed - Family (R-2) zone. +m- H. Staff Amended Recommended Alternative (Post Planning Commission Meeting): (Version Two). Amending Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals to implement best practices in management and prohibit the issuance of new short-term rental permits within the R-1 and R-2 zones. All existing short-term rental permits will be allowed to continue to operate as long as they comply with Chapter 5.10. AND 2. By Minute Motion: A. Authorize the City Manager to develop an appropriate position and add one full-time employee to the Code Compliance Division for the purpose of enhanced monitoring and enforcement of Short -Term Rental Permits, with an estimated cost of up to approximately $100.000.00 annually. October 26, 2017 — Staff Report Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals (STRs) Page 2of12 B. Authorize staff to release a Request for Proposals (RFP) for operating a Short -Term Rental Hotline, and performing other compliance activities. C. Direct staff to calculate a permit fee based upon the all -Inclusive cost of administering a Short -Term Rental Compliance Program, and to return to the City Council at a later date with a resolution to adopt that fee. Executive Summary Approval of either the Ad Hoc Committee's or Staff's recommendation would implement new regulations for STRs related to enforcement, operations, and communications, with two options on how to handle density/compatibility issues. The Ad Hoc Committee's recommendation would create a buffer strategy in single-family neighborhoods (R-1 & R-2), while staff's amended recommendation would deem STRs incompatible within single-family neighborhoods (11-1 & R-2). Staff's amended recommendation was formed through public testimony, during which it became evident that residents are no longer happy with the quality of life provided by the STR uses allowed by the City. Additionally, both recommendations provide direction to hire a new swing shift Code Compliance Officer and to take other actions in support of an increased level of STR management. Plennina Commission Recommendation On October 3. 2017, the Planning Commission conducted a public hearing and heard testimony from approximately 40 individuals regarding STRs. The majority of the speakers were residents from south Palm Desert within the R-1 zone who are opposed to STRs. The smaller percentages of the speakers were individuals from property management companies, realtors, agencies within the Valley, and people in favor of STRs. After the, public hearing concluded, the Planning Commission deliberated and could not agree on a recommendation. Staff has summarized their comments below: Chairperson DeLuna: She stated that a home is the possession about which people are most passionate. She also stated that the climate in the desert is changing with the festivals and tennis tournament, and the City needs to change in a responsible way to protect citizens, and at the same time people need to understand that the City had lots of issues with unpermitted STRs. She believed if the City is too strict, then it will force people to operate STRs underground and then the City will not have the policies to regulate them. She felt sympathetic for the residents distress within the R-1 zone and stated that most of their complaints are enforcement issues, If the City increased their enforcement and procedures, then that should help. She believed that the City would need to find common ground and enforcement should help. She supported the ordinance with increased enforcement. October 26, 2017 — Staff Report Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals (STRs) Page 3 of 12 Vice Chair Pradetto: He stated the STR permit fee should be much higher than $26. He believed that the fees should cover enforcement and not transient occupancy tax (TOT). He also stated that he had sympathy for the residents who have lost sleep; and believed the City needs to give residents their sleep back. He stated that the City needs to take some time to learn from other jurisdictions. He believed the investors who do not live within Palm Oesert should not be able to comment since they have no ties to the community. He was comfortable with the proposed on -site owner STR and temporary STR permits, as long as they are year-round residents and not seasonal. He would support to elimination of STRs within the R-1 and R-2 zones: however, possibly STRs could remain, subject to a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). Commissioner Gregory: He stated it is troubling to see -homeowners this upset. The intent of neighborhoods is for people to live there. Many individuals are making money off STRs, which is wrong because they are changing the neighborhood and they are making money off infrastructure that is already there.. Neighborhoods should be where people know each other. He believed that the issue started in 2012 when the City Council allowed STRs without knowing what impact they would have. They have become a problem because they have created stress for many homeowners, which is not right. He stated a small percentage of homes within the R-1 and R-2 zones have been rented out and are causing the most problems, and STRs within the R-1 and R-2 zones are not appropriate. He also recommended that the minimum night stay be increased to 30 nights where those renters can interact within the neighborhood. He had no concerns with on -site STR owners. He was comfortable with STRs within Planned Residential (PR) communities since they are considered different, and homeowners' associations (HOA) should be able to decide what is best for their private community. Commissioner Greenwood: He was uncomfortable with STRs within the R-1 and R-2 zones based upon the testimony from residents. He stated that with most problems, once you define an issue you can solve it If the City had the proposed enforcement policies in place from the beginning, the opinion on this matter may have been different. He recommended that the existing moratorium on STRs remain in effect within the R-1 and R-2 zones for a minimum of one full season. He stated the community has been significantly affected by STRs, and the City has not had. the necessary policies and enforcement tools in place to deal with the issue. It would be premature to add'to the issue without having control on the existing permits that are in place. He would like to see the City enact and try the proposed enforcement policies to see if they make a difference and if it changes the opinion of the residents. He also recommended that the length of stay should be studied and be a minimum of five to seven nights. October 26, 2017 — Staff Report Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals (STRs) Page 4 of 12 He agreed with the registration and communication policies within the ordinance, especially the check -in. He stated that residents have been through a lot and the moratorium will allow the City to look at parking, how many Code Compliance Officers are needed, and the density of STRs. He was comfortable with STRs within PR communities, and HOAs should be able to decide what is best for their private community. He also agreed that on -site owner STR permits should be allowed In all zones, but had a concern that some will rent their home and stay In town at a friend's house, and if a situation occurred they would run home. Commissioner Holt - She stated residents should not be burdened with a congregation of STRs within their neighborhood and the City needs to alleviate them. The City should have zero tolerance for owners who violate the City's codes and ordinances_ She would like to see owners be fined multiple times during one weekend. The City allows party homes, which cause neighbors multiple sleepless nights. She understood why people buy in south Palm Desert because it is quiet. She believed once enforcement is heavier and people know about the enforcement, then STR enforcement should become easier. She would like to see the limit of daytime occupants reduced, see home inspections, and an on-line tracking system for complaints. She would also like to look at a limited number of STRs an owner can have and limit the number of STRs within the R-1 and R-2 zones. The City should have at least two Code Compliance Officers year-round, especially during the festivals. She understood the STR owners' need to make money and the TOT that the City collects; however, homeowners should come first. The City should review the ordinance within six months to a year to make sure that the City is doing their job with complaints, the hotline, and enforcement. She also stated if an owner or renter threatens a neighbor then that should be punishable as well. Ad Hoe STR Subcommittee Recommendation The Committee met on four separate occasions, with the Internal City group forming the original 19-member committee on February 2, 2017. The Committee recommended the proposed ordinance (Version One), which was released to the general public on September 1, 2017, Below are the amendments that this ordinance would make to the existing ordinance: EnforcemenVPenalties (increasing fines, implementing a three -strike rule, and adding a swing shift Code Compliance Officer). Operational Requirements (requirements of owners and renters to meet and greet, and to limit changes to the character of the neighborhood). Communication (establish guidelines for the neighborhood, renter, and owner communication). October 26, 2017 — Staff Report Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals (STRs) Page 5 of 12 • Density (implement a separation requirement of 500 feet within the R-1 zone and 300 feet within the R-2 zone). This Issue did not have a clear consensus. • Creation of the on -site owner STR and a temporary STR (18 days per year) permits. The Committee generally supported all aspects of the amendments except the bufferlseparation requirements. Many members, especially in south Palm Desert, lobbied for a complete ban of STRs within the R-1 zone, while other members requested all property owners to have the right to market their home as a STR, if they -desired. Staff ultimately proposed the buffer/separation requirements as a compromise between the two groups. Hotel and Signature Events Committee On October 4, 2017, staff met with the Hotel and Signature Events Committee (Hotel Committee) regarding their review on STRs. Members of the Hotel Committee stated that they do view each STR as a competing hotel room, but also acknowledged that not all STR guests are hotel customers. Members of the Hotel Committee stated the number of STRs (1,228) within the City Is not ideal but It is tolerable, and more may pose a concern_ The Hotel Committee stated that people are traveling differently because of STRs, and admitted that the hotel industry needs to update their product in order to capture that traveler. The main concern for the hotel industry is that STRs should be held to the same standards that hotels are in regard to rules and regulations. Hotels have to comply with the American's with Disabilities Act (ADA) where STRs do not. Hotels must have on -site security guards and staff members, regulations for pool hours, zoning regulations, and building code requirements, where STRS do not. Since STRs are considered hotels; they should be held accountable. Backaround Analvsis In 2012, the City Council added Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals creating the current Short -Term Rental Ordinance, and repealed requirements of STRs from Chapter 25 - Zoning that required a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). The creation of the STR Ordinance was the first time that homeowners could rent their home for less than 27 consecutive days with a three-day, two -night minimum stay, without going through a public hearing to obtain a CUP. STRs have grown rapidly throughout the nation and within the Coachella Valley. Property owners are legally required to obtain a permit from the City to utilize their property as a STR. There are currently many required steps, including providing a 24-hour contact and acknowledging receipt of the "Good Neighbor Brochure" prior to renting a residence. There are approximately 1,228 permitted STR units currently operating in the City, and the City's Code Compliance Division is tasked with enforcing and managing the requirements of the license, October 26, 2017 —Staff Report Chapter 5.10 Shot -Term Rentals (STRs) Page 6 of 12 Over the last two years, there has been a general uptick in permit issuance. STRs have become a popular way for owners and investors to convert single-family homes Into significant revenue generators. While this is good for some, it is causing a disturbance for many homeowners within the R-1 and R-2 zones. Residents have become increasingly vocal in asserting that STRs are ruining their quality of life and changing the character of their neighborhoods. Because of this and the recent STR regulatory activity in neighboring cities, on January 12, 2017, the City Council established a 45-day temporary moratorium on the issuance of STRs. The Council also directed staff to form a committee and appointed Councilmembers Kelly and Nestande to participate in that committee. On February 2, 2017. City staff formed and met with the internal committee and discussed the formation of a 19-member stakeholder task force consisting of the following: • Rental Companies/Property Managers — Two members • HOA Presidents/Members —Two members • Homeowners within an HOA—Two members • Homeowners not within an HOA— Three members Hotel Industry —Two members • Realtors — Two members City representatives — Staff from Planning, Code Compliance, Finance, and the City Manager's office. On February 23, 2017, the City Council extended the temporary moratorium on the issuance of STRs city-wide for an additional ten (10) months and fifteen (15) days. The Council directed staff to open the Committee to the public and listen to their input regarding STRs, and come back to the Council with a recommendation. On March 2, 2017, the City held the first Committee meeting. Staff stated during the meeting that the goal was to balance the expedience of this process with hearing all parties' concerns prior to making a recommendation to the City Council. After the March 2 meeting, City staff concluded that there were four (4) main topics (Enforcement/Penalties, Operational Requirements, Communication, and Density), requiring further study. During the next three Committee meetings, which occurred on April 6, April 20, and July 6, the four topics emerged as the primary issues. The following were discussed for each Ent orcement/Penalties • Heavier fines for owners, renters, and management companies. • Three (3) strikes within a year result in loss of the permit. • The need for one to two Code Compliance Officers working the later hours, especially Thursday through Sunday nights. • The hotline number is not an effective tool for prompt resolution. October 26, 2017 —Staff Report Chapter 5. 10 Short -Term Rentals (STRs) Page.7 of 12 2. Operational Reouirements for orooertv owners and renters • A meet and greet at the home between the owner and renter to review all the rules and explain it is not a party home. • Posting of all City ordinances and Good Neighbor Brochure in plain sight. • Execution of a formal acknowledgement from the guest demonstrating that they are aware of all rules and regulations. 3. Communication • Notify adjacent neighbors of which homes are STRs. • Provide neighbors with the Good Neighbor Brochure and hotline number. 4. Density • Allow STRs only in gated areas. • ❑o not allow STRs in R-1 and R-2 zones. • Create a buffer around each existing STR. • Consider capping the number of STRs in each neighborhood. The comments that were discussed during the Committee meeting came from approximately 70 people. Staff found that the group has strong differences on how they viewed and defined STRs. However, they all seemed to agree upon approaches to three of the main categories: EnforcementlPenalties, Operational Requirements, and Communication. Proposed approaches in the Density category never seemed to resonate with anyone, because they didn't solve or meet everyone's concerns or agendas. After the July 6, 2017, Committee meeting, staff thanked the Committee for their input and began to draft an ordinance to take through the public hearing process. Analysis The City currently has 1,228 STRs, and they are divided up into four residential zoning districts. Below is a chart showing the zoning districts, total number of residential units within each district, total number of STRs, and percentages for each district. Zoning Total Residential Total STR Permits Percentage of Designation Units STRs j P.R. 24,010 840 3.5% —R-1 _ — 3,977 _ �212_ _ 5.39/6 - R-2 1.893 64 _ 3.4% R-3 1,667 46 2.7% Committee's and Staff's joint recommendations The recommendations of the two groups (Committee and staff) agree on the proposed ordinance for the first three categories, except for three minor alterations that are discussed below regarding mailing notifications to property owners, responsible person's minimum October 26, 2017 — Staff Report Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals (STfis) Page 8 of 12 age, and timeframe of change of ownership. Below are the proposed amendments for the first three categories: Ent orcement/Penalties The Committee and staff agree on this topic and believe that the City needs to increase its enforcement efforts. The Committee and staff are proposing to increase the fines for any type of violation. The fines will extend to the operator, occupant, and owner. The existing ordinance has fines in the amount of $250. $500, and $1,000. The proposed fines are as follows: First citation is $1,000, Second citation for the same offense within a 12-month period of the dale of the first offense is $3,000. Third citation within a 12-month period of the date of the first offense is $5,000 and an immediate revocation of the STIR permit for a period of two years. The recommendation also includes increasing the fines for violators who are operating a STR without a valid permit. The existing ordinance has tines in the amount of $250, $500, and $1,000. The proposed fines will be as follows: • First citation - $1,000. Second citation or subsequent citation - $5,000, and the City has the right to refuse the issuance of any future STR permit to the same owner within the City. Currently, the City's Code Compliance Division enforces regulations for all existing STIRS. The City also contracts with a consultant, who is tasked with searching websites for non - permitted STRs, The City also contracts with another consultant, who manages a hotline number where neighbors can call 24l7 for complaints. The dispatcher then notifies the owner or operator of the STR and they have 60 minutes to notify the renter of the complaint. City staff has heard on several occasions that the hotline number is not effective, because sometimes if is a recording, and there is no verification whether the complaint was resolved until the next business morning, The Committee and staff believe that responding in 60 minutes is too slow. Both are proposing that the owner/operator must be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for the purpose of responding within 30 minutes to complaints regarding the condition, operation, or conduct of occupants or guests of the STR Unit. Additionally, it has been suggested that the City hire a full-time Code Compliance Officer who works Wednesday through Sunday from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. This officer would be able to respond immediately and assess the reported violation. Because of the irregular seasons and hours during which complaints are received, an effective response team cannot be formed simply by hiring a large number of year-round code compliance officers. It will be necessary to supplement the permanent code compliance team with part-time, seasonal workers, either through an outside vendor or through temporary staff. October 26, 2017 — Staff Report Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals (STRs) Page 9 of 12 Operational and Communication Recuirements These two categories were combined because the Committee and staff agree that the current ordinance lacks accountability of the owners, operators, and renters. Below is a summary of proposed amendments: Prior to occupancy of a STR unit the operator must do the following: • Meet and greet the renter on -site and obtain his or her name, address, and a copy of a valid government -issued identification. • Provide the renter with a copy of the Good Neighbor Brochure. • Provide the renter with information about the STR regulations. • Require the renter to execute a formal acknowledgment In the form acceptable by the City that he or she is legally responsible for compliance of all occupants of the STR unit and their guests, with all applicable laws, rules and regulations pertaining to the use and occupancy of the STR unit. Provide the Responsible Person with the Operator's 24-hour availability information. • Provide the renter with a copy of the maximum number of overnight occupants and the maximum number of daytime occupants as permitted pursuant to the chapter. • Provide the Responsible Person with a copy of trash pick-up day and applicable rules and regulations pertaining to leaving or storing trash on the exterior of the property. • Include in the Good Neighbor Brochure that no music will be played outdoors after 10:00 P.M. Lastly, the Committee and staff are proposing that, upon the issuance of a new STR permit and a renewal permit, the City mail a notice to the owners and occupants of all residences within 200 hundred feet of the property line. The notice will provide information regarding how to lodge complaints (a copy of the Good Neighbor Brochure, and the 24-hour contact person's name and telephone number) regarding the STR unit, The owner will be required to supply the City with the mailing labels as part of the application process. Staff's three minor amendments to the Committee's Recommendation Section 5.10.030 Definitions "Responsible Person'states that the occupant must be at least 21 years of age. Staff has heard that the industry renting standard age is 25 years old. Staff is recommending increasing the minimum age from 21 to 25 years old. • Section 5.10.060 Short -Term Rental permit for all types Letter D, states upon issuance of a new and renewal STR permit that the City shall notify owners within 200 feet. Staff is recommending to exclude STR permits that are located within the Planned Residential zones (which are primarily gated communities with HOAs). •. Section 5.10.060 Short -Term Rental permit for all types Letter F states that property ownership or operator changes must be reported within 14 days. Staff is recommending increasing the timeframe to 30 days. October 26, 2017 — Staff Report Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals (STRs) Page 10 of 12 Densitv/Allowable Zoninq Districts This concept was the most discussed and emotional topic during the Committee meetings and at the Planning Commission meeting. It was also the most divided topic and a cohesive decision or resolution was not established. Based on these opposing views, staff and the Committee drafted an ordinance that represented a compromise between all groups. Since the public hearing before the Planning Commission, staff has created an amended recommendation and has provided a comparison below: Ad Hoc Committees recommendation Although even the Committee members could not reach consensus, they agreed to put forward an ordinance with a buffer/spacing within the R-1 and R-2 zones on the issuance of new STR permits. All existing permitted STRs within the R-1 and R-2 zones would be allowed to continue to operate as long as they are in compliance with the ordinance. Below Is the proposed language. • A new STR permit within the R-1 zone will not be issued if the rental unit is located within 500 feet of any existing actively operating STR unit. • A new STR permit within the R-2 zone will not be issued if the rental unit is located within 300 feet of any existing actively operating STR unit. • The buffedspacing distances shall be measured from each property line. • The City shall maintain a current map of all STR unit locations. • If an existing permit is not renewed, then a new permit will not be issued if the unit falls within the buffer. • If an existing permit is revoked and the STR unit is located in the R-1 or R-2 zones, then a new permit will not be issued unless the unit is not located within a buffer. As stated previously, this concept never gained high levels of support as it was presented to the community. STR operators claim it is a quasi -moratorium, and community members state that it does not go far enough to fix what is seen as a use that is "out of control." Staif's Amended Recommendation After careful study of all public input, staff believes that the proposed buffer/separation requirements do not address the underlying question of whether or not STRs are compatible within single-family zones (R-1 & R-2). Staff also believes that when the City Council allowed STRs in 2012, they did not foresee the boom that the STR industry would experience. The moratorium has allowed staff to study the impacts of STRs within the community and has allowed residents to voice their concerns. Staff has heard from hundreds of residents (mainly within south Palm Desert and Palm Desert Country Club) who state that their quality of life is suffering, and many have stated that they wish to move out of Palm Desert. Based on the Planning Commissioners' comments and public testimony, staff believes that prohibiting new STRs within the R-1 and R-2 zones is the correct course of action. Staff recommends allowing all existing STRs within those zones to continue to operate as long as October 26, 2017 — Staff Report Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals (STRs) Page 11 of 12 they are compliant with Chapter 5.10. The proposed enforcement will remove the lax operators and will allow the responsible owners to continue to operate in a respectful manner, Staff believes attrition will yield a lower number of total permits within the single- family zones. Staff has observed that STRs are generally compatible in Planned Residential (P.R.), and Residential Muftlple-Family (R-3) zoning designations. as most of these communities have some form of governing association. Staff has attempted to create an ordinance that would support these communities in managing STRs. Several gated communities have indicated that STRs are working since most of the clubs are set up to operate as a resort with swimming pools, security services, golfing, and clubhouse amenities. The bulk of the existing permitted STRs are located within the P.R. zone, and there are ample growth opportunities. Two new STR oermft Noes Regardless of which recommendation the City Council chooses, both the Committee and staff recommend implementing two new types of STIR permits. Both types of permits would offer residents within the R-1 and R-2 zones STR options. Temporary STR Permit The temporary STR permit would allow for a homeowner to have the option of renting their home for four separate occasions totaling no more than 18 days per calendar year. This would allow for homeowners to capture the rental business during festivals and the tennis tournament, if they desire. This permit still requires all additional information as outlined within the proposed ordinance, including paying the transient occupancy tax, On -Site Owner STR Permit This permit pertains to an owner who is living in and present within the main unit to rent one (1) or more bedroom(s), or a attached/detached casita. This permit still requires all additional information as outlined within the proposed ordinance, including paying the transient occupancy tax. The owner must also demonstrate regular occupancy during the rental period, which may be by neighbor verification or other means sufficient to the City. Summary The proposed amendments provide guidance and regulations for how STRs are regulated and operated within the City. The proposed amendments do not address all comments that staff received. The Committee and staff agreed on three of the main categories (Enforcement/Penalties, Operational Requirements, and Communication); however, could not reach consensus on Density. Staff has put forth the amended recommendation in the belief that the City's primary role is to define uses within each zoning district. STRs seemingly blur the lines of compatible uses in single-family zones (R-1 & R-2) to the point where staff believes that the Amended Recommendation is the most prudent course of action. October 26, 2017 — Staff Report Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals (STRs) Page 12 of 12 Fiscal Analysis: STR popularity has exploded since the City's ordinance revisions in 2012 as indicated in the matrix of total TOT revenue below: Year Hotel Properties STRs Total 2017 $13,275,463 $1,778,796 $15,054,259 2016 $10,193,829 $1.059,168 $11,252.996 2015 $10,029,019 $770,661 $10,799,680 2014 $9,234,216 $621.294 $9,855,510 2013 $8,656,482 $532,499 $9,188,981 STR permits in the R-1 & R-2 zoning districts represent approximately 23 percent of the total permits Issued throughout the City. As currently proposed in both the Ad Hoc Committee and Staff amended recommendations, existing permit holders would continue to operate, which would likely have a minor short-term effect on STR revenue. Staff believes both versions of the draft ordinance provide ample opportunities for STR growth within the City in both the P.R. and R-3 zoning districts. Included in this report is also a request to hire a swing shift Code Compliance Officer as well as to take other actions which would allow the City to manage STRs more effectively. The total fiscal impact of these management tools is not fully known at this lime. However, staff will return'to the City Council at a later date for consideration of a permit fee to offset the costs of processing applications_ Prepared by: Kevin Swartz, Associate Planner LEGAL REVIEW DEPT. REVIEW Approved as to Form 11 *anSteLell Robert W. Director of Hargreaves Community City Attomey Development ATTACHMENTS: FINANCIAL REVIEW CITY MANAGER an t Moore Lauri Aylaian erector of Finance City Manaqer 1. City Council Ordinance No. ; amending changes to Chapter 5.10 Short -Term Rentals of the City's Municipal Code 2. Exhibit W — [Version One] and [Version Two] 3. Buffer Maps (R-1 and R-2) zones 4. The Desert Sun Legal Notice 5. Correspondences received Sanchez, Gloria From: Bruce Poynter <captainbrucepoynter@juno.com> Sent: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 8:49 PM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Cc: Kelly, Kathleen; Harnik, Jan; Jonathan, Sabby; Swartz, Kevin; Stendell, Ryan; RWHargreaves@bbklaw.com; Bruce Poynter Subject: Support for amending STR Ordinance. > Honorable Mayor and City Council Members. > As a R1, R2 homeowner, I still appreciate your previous decisions to protect your residents from Short Term Rental Motels > N N �� > We again have neighbors who: >_ > Check on the elderly. 3c%7' > Keep a spare key and accept packages. c-a — r ofic'.n > Watch the house when I'm away. O mxm Tx > Feed the Cats, walk the Dogs. m > Belong to Churches and Neighborhood groups. �c > Volunteer at library's, schools and charities. Cl) c � W m > Real Neighborhood Watch is back because we no longer have poorly vetted strangers week after week. > AlrBnb and the various STR platforms have seen serious crimes rise dramatically in the last year. > Don't take my word for it, Google 'AlrBnb Hell' and look at the site and related stories. Criminals have learned how to game the system and it will never again be controlled. > Mostly out of town owners are making money off the backs of the residents and draining city resources. > A final thought. Each mini motel displaces a local family. Housing shortages are at a critical stage in the state and valley. Each STR replaced with real residents greatly improves quality of life for residents and stability for Palm Desert. > Please approve Ordinance 1360 to afford our Planned Residential Neighbors the same protection from the STR Motels that R1 and R2 residents currently enjoy. > Respectfully > Bruce Poynter > Palm Desert, Ca 92260 > Cell: 760 413 8340 Sanchez, Gloria From: Cody Carlson < info@vronpd.org > Sent: Thursday, December 10, 2020 8:06 AM To: Rocha, Grace Cc: Bynder, Randy; CouncilMeeting Comments; Information Mail; Nestande, Gina; Kelly, Kathleen; Harnik, Jan; Jonathan, Sabby Subject: ATTENTION! FOR IMMEDIATE REVIEW BY OUR CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS, RE: Proposed Short -Term Rental Ordinance (Ord. No. 1360) to be considered at the December 10, 2020 City Council meeting Attachments: We sent you safe versions of your files; VRON_PD_Formal_Statement_12_10.pdf Mimecast Attachment Protection has deemed this file to be safe, but always exercise caution when opening files. Dear Honorable Mayor and Council, We hope this email finds you all in good health. We request your immediate attention to review the attached statement prior to the council meeting today. The city and council must reverse course on this blatantly illegal ordinance. In addition, former mayor and council member Gina Nestande must be allowed to vote. The city's attorney, Hargreaves, has more conflicts than she does. Please add the letter from our board and members opposing further bans on STRs in PD (ordinance 1360) into the formal record. Please confirm receipt of this email and please FWD to the new council member on our behalf. Appreciatively, VRON-PD W Dear honorable Mayor & Council, On November 19th, the city held the first reading of Ordinance 1360 and voted to further ban Short Term Rentals (STRs) in the city of Palm Desert, specifically properties in the PR zone that are without HOAs. Our rental organization.Vacation Rental Owners and Neighbors Of Palm Desert_(VRON-PD), believe the vote was wrongly decided and city council MUST reverse course. VOTE NO on the second reading of ordinance 1360, our members demand it. We find the rush to push through this ordinance alarming. Is the citv prepared to make land owners whole? "Taking Clause" If the city council adopts ordinance 1360 on December 10th, what are their plans to make STR owners whole? We believe the city has ZERO plans to make owners whole, especially since they have ZERO documentation from their subcommittee, but unless our City council is planning to make our members whole again, they are in direct violation of the United States constitution for illegal taking by a government agency of private United States citizens. What does whole mean? The city should be prepared to provide our members their initial down payment costs, all investment costs put into each owners property, and the monthly mortgage payments to keep the house out of foreclosure after the STR permit is revoked. Without proper financial support from the council, this is an illegal action and should be seen as a direct as- sault on the United States constitution, which supersedes any city council votes. In fact, as early as May of this year (2020), the city staff was still informing potential buyers that PR zoned properties without an HOA were entitled to an STR permit. AS RECENT AS MAY OF 2020. Owners purchased properties by entrusting the city staff on their word. What are the city's plans to make them whole? A 1-year sunset is a joke, not even a fair negotiation point considering this same council provided R1 /R2 zones with a 2 year sunset period. In 2017, former Mayor and now council member Jan Harnick, stated at the time, "property owners should have more than 18 months to decide what to do..." yet this time the council is happy with 1 year? The only conclusion one may draw from this unfair treatment is the coun- cil's attempt to be bolder in their abuse of the United States constitution. Citv Council is Operatina Illeaally City council is not following equal representation laws. Since the council is not following the California Voting Rights Act of 2001, how is anything the city operating under today even legal- ly binding? If the very foundation of the fabric this city is operating under is illegal, then every decision, ordinance, effort etc. is in essence illegal too. The council's blatant disre- gard for the law is apparent in the city's unwillingness to change to districts and equal repre- sentation. The councils disregard for the law left and right makes one wonder if their legal council is asleep at the wheel. The current council is not equally representative of the city, and since the council's decisions impact the entire city, we do not see how anything the city has done since 2001 is legal. In fact, Anything and everything the city has done since 2001 should be scrutinized closely since none of it was with equal Representation. Instead, the city has bypassed following the state laws in an effort to disenfranchise protected classes for almost two decades. The only conclusion one can draw from the city not moving to comply with districts is simply that the city has a historical passion for disregarding the United States and California laws. Any and all legislation should be null and void considering the California Voting Rights Act was passed over 19 years ago and the city still continues to operate without equal representation. We believe ordinance 1360 disproportionately impacts minorities, which are not equally represented on the council. The complete disregard for the law by this city is alarming, but no longer surprising. The city is not the dictator that gets to rule over the city with an iron fist. There are checks and bal- ances in our free nation to protect everyone, yet the city continues to disregard these checks and balances. If the very fabric of this council's decisions hangs on a vote by an illegal council from its inabili- ty to adapt to the laws (in this case, equal presentation disenfranchising minorities for years), then all decisions are being made illegally. Without equal representation, the council has failed to even consider how ordinance 1360 may disproportionately impact minority home owners. Maybe if they had equal representation, mi- nority land owners would have received real tangible protections. Disproaortionately Impacts Minoritv Land Owners The city staff and council are not telling the public or even investigate to any extent how this will disproportionately impact minority land owners. Why has the city failed to investigate how Ordinance 1360 will disproportionately impact minorities? The council has made zero effort to look into how ordinance 1360 may impact minority land owners. A recent study in the Journal of Urban Economics. published July 2019 (Volume 112), found that, "the data also paint a detailed picture of the people living in HOA neighbor- hoods, who are on average more affluent and racially segregated than those living in other nearby neighborhoods." The council has a duty to review this Ordinance to en- sure it does not create disproportionate discrimination against minority land owners, who fall under Federal Law as a protected class. The council's decision to discrimi- nate against NON-HOA land owners means they should be able to produce doc- umentation that this ordinance does not disproportionately impact minority land owners. Protected talacs- "Race and color were the earliest protected classes. The Civil Rights Act of 1866 prohibits discrimination 'in civil rights or immunities ...on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.' Section 1981(a) of the Act barred discrimina- tion in the making of contracts on the basis of race and color" (Subscript Law). "Pro- tected classes are how federal law conceptualizes protections against discrimination" (Subscript Law). The council may not just "assume" it has no discriminatory impact. They must complete due diligence and know for a fact this does not discriminate against minority homeowners. Council cannot state later it was an "unintended conse- quence" or any other excuse. They must complete a thorough study. 2017 versus 2020 Council and staff must be out of touch with reality if they believe a 2017 report is justification to take action in 2020. The world, country, state, and cities' climates are nowhere near any level of reality similar to 2017! We find this idea false and out of touch with reality. Furthermore, two wrongs do not make a right. Kevin Swartz articulated to one of our mem- bers, and lawyer, by phone "[we've] got to understand that this has all been done before." That may be true, but it doesn't mean it was done correct before. It doesn't mean that we should sit back and let the Government make a second mistakel Staff should not be subtly telling our members that we should accept this because it "was done before." Kevin has at- tempted to publicly display that this is already a done deal and that is false. This is not a done deal. STR Staff Reoort Misleads Council and is Factually Untrue The 2017 staff report articulates that there is no "policy" that STRs are not compatible in PR zone. In fact, the report even states that PR is not the same as R-1/R-2. This is contradic- tory to what staff now present to council. The fact is, the 2017 report explicitly states that PR is different from R-1/R-2 zones and there is no need to further ban STRs in the PR zone. Again, this contradicts staff during the 11/19 meeting with their current report. Also, the city staff report is factually untrue. The city staff determined that 75% of the city would continue to allow STRs, if Ordinance 1360 is passed. Council member Sabby Jonathon clarified, "75% of the city still would retain the ability to issue STR permits," to which city staffer, Kevin Swartz stated, "Yes, I'd say so." Well, just because staff "says so," it does not make it true. The truth is, this information is FALSE. Kevin Swartz informed me the 75% number was based off "GSI land data." However, staff made zero attempt to understand how much of that land would continue to be entitled to a STR permit. Shockingly, Kevin admitted " the city does not have a list" detailing which HOAs allow STRs. So how can the city use the 75% number as factual when that is far from the truth and they themselves made zero effort to verify those figures? They seem to relish in opinions, not facts. At VRON-PD, we believe in facts. Our members spent countless hours and energy digging for the truth. After calling almost 100 HOA communities throughout Palm Desert, it was un- covered that only a handful of HOAs allow STRs. Only 8 of the 100 HOA's contacted con- firmed they allows STRs, which means the 75% number from the city is not only mislead- ing, it is far from the truth. Here are the facts: According to Kevin's staff report, there are 24,010 units in the PR zone, which accounts for 68% of the city. With simple calculations, we can assume that the total number of homes is estimated around 35,308. If what Kevin is stating is true, then 75% of the city, or 26,481 homes, should have the ability to obtain STR permits when ordinance 1360 goes into affect in January 2021. However, there is ZERO calculation that would get the city to allow 26,481 homes to be entitled to an STR permit in January 2021 because the vast majority of HOA communities do not allow STRs. Again, just around 8% of HONs allow them, which means the city is stating falsehoods as facts and voting on falsehoods as facts. In addition to these false and misleading data sets, Council member Sabby Jonathon asked for clarification that "the actions tonight would affect just 67 homes?" to which city staffer Kevin Swartz again stated, "correct." This information is false and misled all the council members be- fore they voted. The Ordinance not only will affect the current 67 homes with STR permits, but it also affects all non-HOA homes in the PR zone because they will not have the option to have one should they want to in the future. Anything voted on, based on misleading or false information should be null and void, as the very foundation of that vote was based on falsehoods and incorrect information. Ordi- nance 1360 should be thrown out based off this alarming discovery alone! Not to mention the myriad of other issues with the Ordinance. What is the truth? Council Failed to Notifv ALL Impacted Land Owners The truth Is, Ordinance 1360 is an illegal rezoning in which the city has failed to notify EVERY LAND OWNER impacted by ordinance 1360, since the council's decision do not just impact 67 current permit holders. The council's decision impacts every property in the PR zone without an HOA. What if someone was thinking about getting a permit and they did not know about this change? What if someone was going to sell their house based off the STR ordinance? What if someone passes away leaving their property to someone out of state providing it to them un- der the sole impression that their out of state relative or friend can visit the house as desired or subsidies the income with STRs as needed? What if someone just bought their house with the intent to turn the home into a STR and does not yet have a permit, and was not notified, and will find out from the city in January that they no longer have that option? What is actually happening with Ordinance 1360 by the city council of Palm Desert and city staff is a CHOKING of GENERATIONAL LAND RIGHTS away from ALL nonHOA land own- ers throughout the PR zone, without properly notifying them or even taking this notion into account as they voted. Blinded by biases, council has been sloppy. VRON-PD is not only against ordinance 1360 for our members, but we are against this for all land owners throughout Palm Desert, because this is a unconstitutional taking of genera- tional land rights from ALL impacted land owners. Regardless of active permit status or not, everyone should have been notified. Ordinance 1360 is an ILLEGAL REZONING This city's attempt to illegally rezone homeowners has not gone unnoticed. In fact, it's on the record. Council member Susan Marie -Weber asked Kevin, "why are we not just rezoning these houses?" He replied, "rezoning a lot of those properties is a huge undertaking, a large process." Ryan Stendell, city staff added, "It is not as easy as changing the color on the map..." Essentially, the city staff openly admitted they are bypassing laws in order to illegally re- zone homes. As the city manager Randy Bynder noted, "this is in affect a zoning text amendment, correct?" Kevin Swartz and Ryan Stendell both nodded their heads in agreement. The blatant disregard for the law from the staff was astounding, but even more shocking was the city councils' vote to approve the ordinance with a clear understanding that this ordinance is obviously an attempt to illegally rezone homes. Council voted based on their biases, not the law. The city needs to stop acting with blatant biases and start acting like a government body that follows the law. The city must follow the law! No city, just as no person, is above the law! Our members have found it_hard to get a drivers license at the DMV or renew their license registration annual- ly, but they still have to follow the law or they are operating illegally. Just because something is "too hard", it does not mean it provides grounds for disregarding the law or processes/proce- dures in favor of an easier route. The city staff and council's disregard for the law is alarm- ing. Permit Clause: Citv Staff Is Limitations Do not ADoear to be Known City staff may have sneakily added a fine print that makes them believe they have the ability to rip away land rights at any time, but that doesn't make it legally binding. These are not even notarized docu- ments. This is exactly what the constitution is in place for: to protect the many from the tyranny of a few. Kevin has simply added baseless words to a word document, which anyone with the Microsoft office suite in the 21st century has the ability to do, but it doesn't make it legally binding or make him the king of property rights to strip away generational land rights with the click of some keys on a keyboard. It simply makes the city staff publicly admit they were sneaky in their intent to get rid of all short term rentals. During the 11/19 meeting, Kevin and the city could not even definitively state that they have a new STR permit on hand for each STR permit holder. Ryan Stendell stated that they, "could have had a permit on file for a decade" in response to council member Susan Marie-Weber's question regarding each permit holder having a "current" signed permit. Our members have not been required to sign a new per- mit every year. That statement was FALSE. "Not every time do they sign that form [permit] on their rental," Kevin added when later asked for clarity by Council member Jan Harnick. Again, staff is not even sure of the facts and contradicts themselves on their own statements. Here is the fact: our mem- bers have not been required to resign the permit annually. The city happily accepts a check, renews the permit, and continues with all the short term rental operators to continue operating. Council was again misled. Also, when the city works with the land owners, they did not make an effort to point out that clause or read out loud such a drastic statement to ensure that land owners fully understand the impact by signing the permit. Generational land rights cannot be stripped merely by such a minor sneaky fine print. As the foundational reasoning for only providing our members a 1 year sunset clause, the city staff and council have failed to realize that not ALL LAND OWNERS have signed this permit. This impacts every land owner, permit signee or not. Homeowners might have been preparing their homes to apply for a permit and now they will have ZERO ability to recoup any of their investment since council failed to noti- fy them or ask for their opinions. There is no proof that the city conducted due diligence to fully inform their permit holders the RISK of signing. They simply asked everyone to sign and send in the money for them to review and ap- prove. In fact, the staff couldn't even definitively articulate to council that they have a "current permit" for each land owner after 2017. This means that they don't even know if everyone impacted has agreed to this sneaky and fake clause. The city has to complete due diligence. Several, if not all, city council members didn't even know this language was in the permit. After reviewing 3 years of council meeting minutes, not once was this clause discussed or voted on. In 2017, prior to the city council voting to remove STR permits from R-1/ R-2, the city failed to notify every land owner in the entire city that they may attempt to add a govern- ment taking clause to a STR permit that would require every land owners signed agreement to remove generational land rights. In essence, the city wants to trade your rights for a permit, how is that even le- gal? We believe it is not legal. This city is acting illegally in its attempt to state it has authority to strip away generational lands rights with such blatant disregard for the constitutional taking clause! Staff has zero authority to strip away land rights with sneaky fine print. Not to mention, city staff has no authority to play judge, juror and pros- ecutor on land rights!! They have no authority to strip away generational land rights in any form. They don't create the law, they must follow the law, which seems to be difficult for this council and city staff. They only get to enforce laws already approved and in place, not to create laws out of thin air with a click on a word document. Only Conaress can Reaulate Interstate Commerce If ordinance 1360 passes, land owners who remain onsite will have the ability to request a per- mit. We find this statement an attempt to regulate interstate commerce, which is the act of congress, not city council. An out of state operator should not be disbarred from continu- ing to operate for living offsite, in another state. The city should not be attempting to regu- late commerce across state lines, this is out of bounds and dangerous precedent. The city must look to congress to regulate interstate commerce, not attempt to be congress. HOA Written Aooroval Statement The city council and city staff should not be requiring a letter from any HOA, for any per- mit holder or future permit holder, for any reason. The city should leave the STR governing of these parcels to that of their HOAs, which already enforce their own STR rules on their land owners. We find this additional language an assault on future STR permit requesters in HOA communities. The city MUST remove this language immediately or the only conclusion one can draw is that the long term road map for this council is to rid the city of all STR permits and remove all generation land rights from all land owners. The city has again, failed to notify ALL impacted parties. The city did not communicate this change out to ALL HOA land owners. They may have communicated to all current permit hold- ers, but this impacts everyone in a PR zone within an HOA. What does Sten Children mean? Council member Sabby Jonathan felt it compelling to show his bias when he paralleled this ordinance to a step child. The bias was painfully obvious because he is playing favorites with his "kids" A.K.A. land parcel owners. Stepchildren should be treated equally by parents as blood children. Children should be treated equally. A land parcel, is just that, a land parcel, not a child, and yet we are the step land parcel. Council should be reminded they are not our parents; they are elected by us, to represent us, to treat us ALL equally in the eyes of the law. Council's continued demonstration of blatant bias has almost turned to the new normal for what we expect. The step children comment should require that council member Sabby Jonathon must abstain for biases. Biases must remain off the council. Land Council is elected by the people, for the people, but it does not mean their votes and ordi- nances are legal or binding when they are blatantly illegal and wrong. Land owners have rights, protected under the most crucial document of our country, the constitution. Land is defined as, "ground or soil of a specified situation, nature, or quality," according to Merriam Webster's dictionary. What is important to note is that our members' land, or soil, is no different than that of our neighbors. STR owners already have to give up more freedom than that of their neighbors. Our neighbors are free to park on the streets, able to welcome guests 365 days a year for any length of time, and can host any amount of people, for almost any reason. Our members and guests are subjected to harassment from some of these neigh- bors and the city does not protect them. Our members are also land owners, no different than their neighbors. In the eyes of the law, we should be treated equally. The foundation of Ordinance 1360 is about stripping generational land rights away from neighbors, while allowing other neighbors to have more rights. We find this to be against the law as land should be treated equally. Woodv Guthrie out it best in his classic. "This Land is vour land": This land is your land, and this land is my land From the California, to the New York Island From the Redwood Forest, to the Gulf stream waters This land was made for you and me As I went walking that ribbon of highway I saw above me that endless skyway Saw below me the golden valley This land was made for you and me I roamed and rambled, and I've followed my footsteps To the sparkling sands of her diamond deserts All around me a voice was sounding This land was made for you and me When the sun come shining, then I was strolling And the wheat fields waving and the dust clouds rolling A voice was chanting as the fog was lifting This land was made for you and me This land is your land, and this land is my land From California to the New York Island From the Redwood Forest, to the Gulf stream waters This land was made for you and me When the sun come shining, then I was strolling And the wheat fields waving, the dust clouds rolling The voice come in chanting and the fog was lifting This land was made for you and me Closing At best, the city has been sloppy with an illegal ordinance. At worst, it's an utterly appalling choke by our government on generational land rights without documentation, zero effort, and complete disregard for the law. The city council must reverse course on ordinance 1360. The council must vote no against such a blatant illegal ordinance. Approving ordinance 1360 is an approval for breaking the law and admits that the city council failed their residents, on both sides. Appreciatively, VRON-PD Board & Members info(itvronod.om vronpd.org Sanchez, Gloria From: Cody Carlson <info@vronpd.org> Sent: Thursday, December 10, 2020 11:09 AM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: Additional Signatures Attachments: We sent you safe versions of your files; petition_signaturesjobs_26158228_ 20201210182516.pdf Mimecast Attachment Protection has deemed this file to be safe, but always exercise caution when opening files. Hi Gloria, Please add these 662 additional COVID friendly signatures to the record, they consist of land owners, Palm Desert Residents, short term rental guests (previous and future potential tourists), and business owners. Thank you! Appreciatively, VRON-PD change.org Palm Desert Homeowners Recipient: Honorable Mayor and City Council Letter: Greetings, We, the Vacation Rental Owners and Neighbors of Palm Desert, respectfully request you consider and take action on one of the following options: Table this item- support short term rentals in our community. Table this item for a future meeting to allow the new council to take up this matter. Table this item and request/support an economic study prior to making this important decision. Vote NO on the item set to further ban short term rentals. Signatures Palm Desert Homeowner Cody Carlson Diane Mathew Olivier Chaine Andrew MacLurg Michael Baronian Emanuela Baronian Christian Baronian colleen kalan Kevin Coskun Chris Khachigian Ahleen Bagoian taline bagoian Sean Kasakian Laura Semerjian Vanik Piliguian Armine Semerjian Timmothy Baronian Salpie Ajemian Ahleen V u5 Palm Desert, CA Vancouver, WA Palm Desert, CA Palm Desert, CA Whittier, CA Los Angeles, CA El Monte, CA Palm Desert, CA Pico Rivera, CA Los Angeles, CA Montebello, CA Los Angeles, CA Rowland Heights, CA Palm desert, CA Whittier, CA San Gabriel, CA Whittier, CA Palm desert, CA Palm Desert, CA 2020-12-03 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 Tatiana Kasakian Corona, CA William Bower Indio, CA David Fickes Palm Desert, CA Kathy OConnor Palm Desert, CA lora romo long beach, CA Gina Miller Los Angeles, CA Kay Newsom Palm Desert, CA Patrick Klein Palm Desert, CA Martha Gomez Rancho Mirage, CA Sandy Swett Palm Desert, CA Joaquin Murguia Palm Desert, CA Michael Carter Palm Desert, CA Shant Ghazarian Huntington Beach, CA Natalie Bezdjian Los Angeles, CA Ida Bardakjian Glendale, CA Luke Andersom Chicago, US Sami Veltkamp Lynden, US Alicia Narguizian Sherman oaks, CA Scott Fishman Trabuco Canyon, CA ben choi Laguna woods, US Sherri Phillips Dutton, US Grant Vargas Lynnfield, US 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 Jesus Moguel Sarafina Jobity Asti Lopez David Kartal Terri Johnson Cox Anna Anassian Keyva King Silva Chalikyan Grace Fishman Alin Nourian Soseh Thomasian Guia Serrano Greg Miller Sunday Sarkisian Ashley Mejia-Granados Daniella Billini Brianna Raffa Noah Mccully Basema Fadly Patricia Graham Houri Yeghiayan Long Beach, US Brooklyn, US New York, US Rancho Mirage, CA Palm Desert, CA Burbank, CA Corona, CA Pasadena, CA Brea, CA Montebello, CA West Hollywood, CA Los Angeles, CA Montebello, CA Montebello, CA Miami, US Bronx, US West Columbia, SC Altoona, US Anaheim, US Tenino, US Pasadena, CA 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 2020-12-04 Name Location Date Lawrence McFadden Palm Springs, CA 2020-12-04 Arpi Krikorian Pasadena, CA 2020-12-04 Kimberly Ong Laguna Hills, CA 2020-12-04 Sarah Kirakossian Los Angeles, CA 2020-12-04 Talin Ghazarian Huntington Beach, CA 2020-12-04 Robert Artinian Winnetka, CA 2020-12-04 Anush Froian Los Angeles, US 2020-12-04 richard king Anaheim, CA 2020-12-04 Art Davis Palm Desert, CA 2020-12-05 Sheri Pierattoni Palm Desert, CA 2020-12-05 Patricia Ramirez San Jacinto, CA 2020-12-05 Lusine Miller Los Angeles, CA 2020-12-05 Adam Kaluba Burleson, TX 2020-12-05 Gohar Papikian Montebello, CA 2020-12-05 Hovanes Gasparian Montebello, CA 2020-12-05 Jennifer DeSimone Cypress, CA 2020-12-05 Rouben Gasparian Palm Desert, CA 2020-12-05 Kieran Lorenzen Irvine, CA 2020-12-05 Nate Jordan Indio, CA 2020-12-05 Justin Vasquez Palm Desert, CA 2020-12-05 Melinda Robertson San Diego, CA 2020-12-05 ivy garcia Las Vegas, NV 2020-12-05 Alejandra Garcia Christine Artinian irma baronian Karine Haitayan Elizabeth Papelian Ani Sassounian Natalie Krikorian Rozanna Bagoian Gilda Sarkisian Brenden Baronian Alex Demirdj Nick Vartanian Shant Terzian Kayla Lim Sabrina Lanier Rich La Rue Edward Holzhauer Allison Rowe Priscilla Kubas James Sutherland Armen Petrosian Nuevo, CA Winnetka, CA Whittier, CA Glendale, CA Pasadena, CA Glendale, CA Los Angeles, CA Montebello, CA La Canada, CA Pico Rivera, CA Pasadena, CA Glendale, CA Los Angeles, CA Riverside, CA Palm desert, CA Palm Desert, CA Riverside, CA Rancho Mirage, CA Palm Desert, CA Pasadena, CA Los Angeles, CA 2020-12-05 2020-12-05 2020-12-06 2020-12-06 2020-12-06 2020-12-06 2020-12-06 2020-12-06 2020-12-06 2020-12-06 2020-12-06 2020-12-06 2020-12-06 2020-12-06 2020-12-06 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 lisa kushida Katie Mead Marco Suarez Vic Rupchian Mary Suarez Christina Rizzoni Andy Teteyan Janice Seneres Cristina Dyer Judith Swanson Karen Magrann Jerryewer Juana Martinez Chloe Robinson Malak Mansi Emily Sanchez Brooklynn Osborne Emily Scott Anisty Abeyta Atoosa Dezfoulizadeh Melanie Gonzalez Encino, CA Palm Springs, CA Palm Desert, CA Palm Desert, CA Palm Desert, CA Hermosa Beach, CA Los Angeles, CA Palmdesert, CA Los Angeles, CA US Palm Desert, CA 74614 Strawflower Circle, CA Newport News, US Roseville, US Houston, US Palmdale, US Houston, US Durham, US Albuquerque, US Lake Forest, US Cicero, US 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 2020-12-07 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 lani cour-palais Conroe, US 2020-12-08 alyssajackey Houston, US 2020-12-08. angela kim I Bremerton, US 2020-12-08 Robert Zakheim Palm Desert, CA 2020-12-08 Mizelle virtucio Garden Grove, CA 2020-12-08 Desiree Uy Pinole, CA 2020-12-08 Sheila Baril San Francisco, CA 2020-12-08 maria rendon Alameda, CA 2020-12-08 Araceli Uy Daly City, CA 2020-12-08 Alan Pearson Tualatin, OR 2020-12-08 M Nojadera I Pacifica, CA 2020-12-08 Amelia Ortiz Corona, CA 2020-12-08 Vielka:) Inestroza Durham, US 2020-12-08 Sophie Phu Anaheim, US 2020-12-08 jade Johnson Crosby, US 2020-12-08 Adan Dallas Lewisburg, US 2020-12-08 Shannon Cozzolino Gig Harbor, US 2020-12-08 rayann ford Hayward, US 2020-12-08 sherri hodges Phoenix, US 2020-12-08 Sydney May Hayward, US 2020-12-08 Skylar Diaz I Washington, US 2020-12-08 Ashley Sebastian San Diego, US 2020-12-08 Name Location Erin Jacobs Fair Oaks, US Roxanne Little Reston, US Veronika Dzienis Lake Zurich, US kylie osborne Aberdeen, US Lamonique Allen Harker Heights, US Corey Riman Los Angeles, CA Arline Kaplan Huntington Beach, CA Karen Dun Concord, CA Angelica Pascacio Marina del Rey, CA John Swanson Palm Desert, CA Agim Demirovski US Robert Sharrow Palm Desert, CA Genevieve Sharrow Pasadena, CA David Weiner Palm Springs, CA Stanley Cyphers Palm Desert, CA michelle nicolai Woodland Hills, CA Kasandra Williams Palm Desert, CA Ashley Parkinson Bronx, US Elle Belle Austin, US Agustina Aleman Falfurrias, US Warren Wallace Spring Valley, US Lindsey Perkins Loveland, US Date 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-08 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 Reuel Alexander Iraida Diaz Gonzalez Felicia Narvaez Tesh Ross Lee Casa] Brooke Terp Erika Rikhiram Kaley Robison Kayla Johnson Melly Garcia Anna Urban Jillian Hatch Sianna Evans nevaeh trevino Bella Jimenez alehnai pacheco Detra Johnson-McMurra Delaney London Ari Vandal Raelyn Duck Orange, US Tampa, US Sacramento, US Chicago, US Fort Lauderdale, US Mesa, US Clermont, US Denton, US Elkton, US Scarsdale, US Portland, US Whiteville, US Fresno, US Edinburg, US Gainesville, US Leominster, US Arlington, US y Florissant, US Pine Mountain Club, US Rochester, US Brunswick, US 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 Name Location Date James Cortez Fresno, US 2020-12-09 Christian Holmberg Oakhurst, US 2020-12-09 Isabella Dessert Kansas City, US 2020-12-09 Aisy McCormick Saint Paul, US 2020-12-09 jane s Phoenix, US 2020-12-09 Taylor Seldon Owings Mills, US 2020-12-09 Garrett Duquesnay Cumberland, US 2020-12-09 Jaylan Williams Saint Louis, US 2020-12-09 Jeannine DeAngelis Chandler, US 2020-12-09 Kayla Kim Chino Hills, US 2020-12-09 gabby watson Pompano Beach, US 2020-12-09 Sky Hasan Chula Vista, US 2020-12-09 Alex Mordas Philadelphia, US 2020-12-09 Emma Linehan Rowlett, US 2020-12-09 Jony Reyes Levittown, US 2020-12-09 Carnia Melton Akron, US 2020-12-09 Ava Willingham Lilburn, US 2020-12-09 Michael Houvardas Peabody, US 2020-12-09 chloe onb La Fayette, US 2020-12-09 Katie Fruchtl Lancaster, US 2020-12-09 Andrew Herrera San Antonio, US 2020-12-09 Amber Green Indianapolis, US 2020-12-09 Name Location Date Ariana Santiago Lake Mary, US 2020-12-09 Lily Welch Ithica, US 2020-12-09 nana davis Hebron, US 2020-12-09 Janet Lynn Baldwin Spartanburg, US 2020-12-09 Alexandria Middleton Londonderry, US 2020-12-09 Isabella Wenner Warren, US 2020-12-09 Gadeer Abuawad Chicago, US 2020-12-09 Giselle Mizu Portland, US 2020-12-09 Kay Bennett Charlotte, US 2020-12-09 Xakariah Zanika Lisle, US 2020-12-09 Daniela Loreto Houston, US 2020-12-09 Brissa Flores McAllen, US 2020-12-09 Naomi Asfaw Silver Spring, US 2020-12-09 nic ervin Farmersburg, US 2020-12-09 Diego Martinez Raleigh, US 2020-12-09 Jordan Rowe Bronx, US 2020-12-09 Valerie Coleman San Antonio, US 2020-12-09 Declan Bolch Atlanta, US 2020-12-09 Jane Doe US 2020-12-09 Davion Grade Huntingdon, US 2020-12-09 Jasmine L Hialeah, US 2020-12-09 Diego Corona Sunnyvale, US 2020-12-09 Name Location Date Sebastian Venancio Secaucus, US 2020-12-09 john hodge Bronx, US 2020-12-09 Samantha Torres Westminster, US 2020-12-09 Alyssa Mcdonald Kansas City, US 2020-12-09 Elizabeth Kowalski Concord, US 2020-12-09 kenzie brown Kitty Hawk, US 2020-12-09 Maria Baker Denver, US 2020-12-09 ava perreault Doylestown, US 2020-12-09 Lauren Pepsi Sebastian, US 2020-12-09 A kokichi Kinnie Rialto, US 2020-12-09 Catalina Ceballos Vancouver, US 2020-12-09 Braylin Lynch Waco, US 2020-12-09 Bradley McCurley Decatur, US 2020-12-09 Paige Laurie Charlotte, US 2020-12-09 Mason Thompson Kennewick, US 2020-12-09 Lois Bettelyoun Wanblee SD, US 2020-12-09 Ryan Scott Newark, US 2020-12-09 Barrington Johnson Fort Worth, US 2020-12-09 Fernanda Romualdo Myrtle Beach, US 2020-12-09 Elijah McCrary Alexandria, US 2020-12-09 Steve Elenich Hancock, US 2020-12-09 Kristina Khoury San Bruno, US 2020-12-09 Name Location Date gabriela cole Detroit Lakes, US 2020-12-09 Kayla McGrath San Francisco, US 2020-12-09 Kara Lawfield saint clair shores, US 2020-12-09 Lauren Mawson Levittown, US 2020-12-09 NatalyJimenez Fontana, US 2020-12-09 Michelle Torres Joliet, US 2020-12-09 Aileen Suculanda Southampton, US 2020-12-09 Celeste Lastra El Monte, US 2020-12-09 Maiyana Hobbs Humble, US 2020-12-09 Shawnee Harris Santa Cruz, US 2020-12-09 amanda burns valparaiso, US 2020-12-09 Annette Drew Suitland, US 2020-12-09 Brooke Montes Aliso Viejo, US 2020-12-09 michael harling rockford, US 2020-12-09 karye villalobos Lawrence Township, US 2020-12-09 Anne Schmidt Los Altos, CA 2020-12-09 Alex Tres Toronto, US 2020-12-09 John Arana Mazariegos 7 US 2020-12-09 Jovann Garcia Houston, US 2020-12-09 Noah Wheeler Lake Stevens, US 2020-12-09 marisa moore miami, US 2020-12-09 Manuel Montenegro Houston, US 2020-12-09 � 4Fi 3`Q � �LI- -' '.., tl Y 'F5'F S.J'R'pY ]� cif�SY' `�!!�°..�z?F � ki �:° i.$4i [h l�jda5 y* iE• \y ig "Y.:i ..S �Nam.� a. kp s�°�k.�Location � � T � 3., "F eseaDate ''$$4'^S'G+S. c3! ^^4!��M -`j✓i .fiJ �� F"wi {'� N � .+S-f �i..y^1._. Kassanndra *private private information, US 2020-12-09 information* Amber Fery San Jose, US 2020-12-09 Anna Fendley Middleton, US 2020-12-09 Tyler Harris Concord, US 2020-12-09 skylahr kruger San Rafael, US 2020-12-09 Forhad Ali New York, US 2020-12-09 Leiba Zambrano Davie, US 2020-12-09 Nancy Fernandez Anaheim, US 2020-12-09 Evan Fisher Jackson, US 2020-12-09 Gunner Stone La Quinta, US 2020-12-09 Mackenzie Piceno Eden, US 2020-12-09 Grace Stone Minneapolis, US 2020-12-09 Anna Borgula Grand Rapids, US 2020-12-09 i Zahara Cooper Silver Spring, US 2020-12-09 rose iska Chicago, US 2020-12-09 AveryJones Oak Park, US 2020-12-09 Madison Larson Fort Lauderdale, US 2020-12-09 Danae Raphael Orlando, US 2020-12-09 Valerie Ramirez Santa Barbara, US 2020-12-09 Paola Fuentes Houston, US 2020-12-09 Amerie Swader Lake station, US 2020-12-09 Khalid Tariq Isaiah Waterman Sarah Schwoerer Kelsey Burtner TaNisha Tucker Amilliaun Littlejohn Emma Gladden Gabriela Puntel Levi Ackerwood Jessica Berari Courtney Folsom Teresa Vanzeller Paris Love flik . melanie hinojosa Mckenzie Williams Blake hirdler Darielle Ramirez Ashton Linville Shan'ia McClendon abby flores Tustin, US Stafford, US Bloomington, US Pittsburgh, US Lancaster, US Stockton, US Charleston, US Philadelphia, US Leland, US Santa Barbara, US Elwood, US Las Vegas, US Dayton, US Hastings, US Laredo, US Grand Blanc, US Cloquet, US Dallas, US US Euclid, US Bensenville, US 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 Meadow Baske bailee porteous Joy Carpenter Noelle Schleider E'mani Stallworth Toby Allen Bianca Horta Jessica Dai London Loza Alex Johnson erika rodriguez Leroy Spalding Mike] Crawford Jeimy Rodriguez Sonia Doble Jade Jackson Michael duffy Alex Mojica Person Shrek Brian Moniz Gwendolyn Valentine Connor Dean Saint Peters, US Decatur, US Midlothian, US Garfeild, US Pinedale, US Modesto, US Minneapolis, US Moreno Valley, US Oak Park, US Birmingham, US Bardstown, US Bolivar, US Dallas, US Sierra Vista, US Greenville, US Bush, US Chicago, US Alexandria, US Brockton, US San Francisco, US Longmont, US I►OKIIIIIEZ11:7 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 Jayd Falwell Jessica Manson A'dia Stubbs Cheryl Perschke Paola Aguilar Thysha Boyer Brandon Frost Dayana Esparza Valerie Miller Jude Cerra Michelle Vierra Mariah Webb Katrina Kendrick Lori Gonon Mary Hahn Isaac Taylor Aaron Elam addison smitley III Gwen Cronin Margo Greco Sky Prince allemtown, US Harbeson, US Tucson, US Chicago, US Fontana, US SaintJohnsville, US Columbus, US Chicago, US Cortland, US Olathe, US Seattle, US Bethel Park, US Douglasville, US Worcester, US Forked River, US Tolleson, US Garden City, KS New Philadelphia, US Aumsville, US Las Vegas, US Pompano Beach, US 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 202042-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 Giselle Mizu Portland, US 2020-12-09 Taryn Dougherty Reston, US 2020-12-09 Ava Adams Huntington Beach, US 2020-12-09 Samuel Clarida Highland, US 2020-12-09 Kimmie Floersch Metuchen, US 2020-12-09 Amy Muthersbaugh Schuylkill Haven, US 2020-12-09 Akilah Manley Lake Mary, US 2020-12-09 luna rodriguez Grand Prairie, US 2020-12-09 Favio Guzman Bremerton, US 2020-12-09 Tamia Brown Clovis, US 2020-12-09 Angel Rosas San Diego, US 2020-12-09 Destiny Revilla Chicago, US 2020-12-09 Alyssa Aman Portland, US 2020-12-09 Emma Raw Minneapolis, US 2020-12-09 niyah m Mooresville, US 2020-12-09 Jake Champagne Las Vegas, US 2020-12-09 Ruth Louis New York, US 2020-12-09 trinetta graham greensboro, US 2020-12-09 Ava Morrison Baltimore, US 2020-12-09 cecilia duno Houston, US 2020-12-09 angle ramirez Norco, US 2020-12-09 Latrice Bankston Nashville, US 2020-12-09 Name Location Date natalie moore Anaheim, US 2020-12-09 Katie Kopajtic New York, US 2020-12-09 Promise Fobang District Heights, US 2020-12-09 Jonathan Parker Decatur, US 2020-12-09 Blueberry Muffin Seattle, US 2020-12-09 Ava the Bob Bob Nymph US 2020-12-09 Dewey Duke Cape Coral, US 2020-12-09 amelia Low Charleston, US 2020-12-09 Emily Sanchez El Paso, US 2020-12-09 Gabrielle Embry US 2020-12-09 Liam Pummer Aurora, US 2020-12-09 jessica lee Chesapeake, US 2020-12-09 Christian Peggins Killeen, US 2020-12-09 Carminia Burgos Downey, US 2020-12-09 Cassaundra Fitzgerald Rancho Cucamonga, US 2020-12-09 kaylee lukasiewicz Prescott Valley, US 2020-12-09 Miranda Martinez Chino, US 2020-12-09 Zarai Beas Linden, US 2020-12-09 Jasmine Cintron Portland, US 2020-12-09 Isabel Mora Cypress, US 2020-12-09 Melanie Arriaga Mesquite, US 2020-12-09 Nehemiah Juarez Carson City, NV 2020-12-09 Tess Young Ava Tomayko Abby Lazewski Christopher Gamez Nishka Malhotra shanya Saunders Doctor Poopenstien Emilyn Crawford i rachel mcfaul Luis Reyes Saige Marshall maya lacasse gianna marin Megan Goosey cs Allie Mainwaring Taishawn Foster Daryhan Cardozo emma karla Alondra Arias Ashley Mejia abbie lee North Hollywood, US 2020-12-09 San Diego, US 2020-12-09 Northampton, US 2020-12-09 El Paso, US 2020-12-09 Henrico, US 2020-12-09 Somerset, US 2020-12-09 Shit, US 2020-12-09 Portland, US 2020-12-09 Vienna, US 2020-12-09 Chicago, US 2020-12-09 Alexandria, US 2020-12-09 Rensselaer, US 2020-12-09 Jackson, US 2020-12-09 Danville, US 2020-12-09 Plant City, US 2020-12-09 Bainbridge Island, US 2020-12-09 Los Angeles, US 2020-12-09 Santa Barbara, US 2020-12-09 Simi Valley, US 2020-12-09 El Paso, US 2020-12-09 Cathedral City, US 2020-12-09 Chaska, US 2020-12-09 Name Location Date Dayonna Kelly Towson, US 2020-12-09 Jane Potter La Jolla, US 2020-12-09 Charlie W. Indianapolis, US 2020-12-09 William Peterson Ankeny, US 2020-12-09 Caleb Ysha Griffin, US 2020-12-09 Maja Sullivan Madison, US 2020-12-09 rosellee martinez Chicago, US 2020-12-09 Isabel Catlett Dumont, US 2020-12-09 Ethan Alsbury Lawton, US 2020-12-09 Gloria Guerrero Los Angeles, US 2020-12-09 Sherlock Keisha Opa Locka, US 2020-12-09 sophie perkins Saint George, US 2020-12-09 Abby Rochelle Fayetteville, US 2020-12-09 Emily Marroquin Los Angeles, US 2020-12-09 Sharn Kang Elk Grove, US 2020-12-09 Mel Johnfinn Miami, US 2020-12-09 Brenda vine Lockport, US 2020-12-09 Lauri Arenas Newark, US 2020-12-09 Shanti Ganath Haddon Heights, US 2020-12-09 Sophia Nichols Lawrence, US 2020-12-09 cheese flavor Rancho Mirage, US 2020-12-09 Elliot Flynt Parkville, US 2020-12-09 Named � x "Locatonw�O �� sy frDatet5,} Alejandra Tovar US 2020-12-09 Ishmam Raiyan Jamaica, US 2020-12-09 Andy Miller Mckinleyville, US 2020-12-09 Hope Pellumbi Gig Harbor, US 2020-12-09 charles phares Shawnee, OK 2020-12-09 Xavier Billingsley Nashville, US 2020-12-09 Vince Affinito 37620 Driscoll St Palm Desert, PA 2020-12-09 Ernest Schmidt Los Altos, CA 2020-12-09 Rudy Alvarez Palm desert, CA 2020-12-09 Ashley Rose West Hills, CA 2020-12-09 john louladakis Thessaloniki, Greece 2020-12-09 zachary crouse Walnut Creek, CA 2020-12-09 leigh ganje Saint Paul, US 2020-12-09 Abbey Graham Cashton, US 2020-12-09 Shaqoyia Preston Orlando, US 2020-12-09 Heidi Millar Laguna beach, US 2020-12-09 vanesa torres Brownsville, US 2020-12-09 Liam Mahoney Worcester, US 2020-12-09 Jade Shannon Zanesville, US 2020-12-09 Amine Chemsi Miami, US 2020-12-09 Savannah Drumm Arkansas City, US 2020-12-09 Jane Smith Atlanta, US 2020-12-09 Lily Chao Lillian Russ Vivian schraufnagle Tarik Prying anna vickers Isabel Trapalis Blake Frost Nate Solomon AbaiAnyuon AC Madelyn Bopp Saffran Harris Koshi Moshi Chelsea Davis Louis McCormick JOHN JAYEOLA Edward Smalls Diana Laureano Jaquelyn Alvarez Reese Whipple Melissa Hernandez Gresham, US West Orange, US Cudahy, US Memphis, US US East Syracuse, US New York, US Claymont, US Houston, US Ellicott City, US Johnston, US San Diego, US Laredo, US Kansas City, US Bemidji, US PLAINFIELD, US Mt. Plesent, US Brooklyn, US Bronx, US Lafayette, US Houston, US 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 y7.7-u'";r#. t�a _A LocanNO Paul Markillie Grand Blanc Township, US maddy leboeuf Lake Villa, US Maryah Smith Fort Lauderdale, US Victoria Samedi Ocoee, US Richard Marin Santa Paula, US Denis Ojeada Worcester, US Soongebob Is salty as hell Davenport, US ANON ANON norman, US Adriannah Valme Central Islip, US Finn Arnold Noblesville, US Solomon Mekonnen Springfield, US adrien iannuzzi Pooler, US laureen aguayo west valley, US Itzel Delgado El Paso, US Aaron Murdoch Tacoma, US keo kennn Long Beach, US Faraz Razvi Dallas, US Forest Martin Poland, US Ava Silverleaf Austin, US Andrew Ballista Elizabeth, US Gemma Marcum Akron, US Karen Duncan Concord, CA 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 Violet Olson connor grant Ariana Moctezuma Melon L juliana�isao Ansley Albrecht lindsey norman Elena Nevins Judith Romero Kennedy Wilson kathryn berenbaum Tia Riklon Arely Meza frannie schwarz Jennet Rahman Aaliyah Seriki Victoria Guerrero Kylee Baker Sadeen Obeid aaron Grim Adalynn Lee Minneapolis, US Litchfield, US Dallas, US Ogden, US Oakland, US Mount Pleasant, US Lewis Center, US Chicago, US Anaheim, US Lancaster, US Palm Desert, US Honolulu, US Oroville, US Bala Cynwyd, US Macungie, US Houston, US Huntington Station, US Owyhee, US Evergreen Park, US Fayetteville, US Huntersville, US 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 Samara Garcia Olivia Leach Andrea Ortega Linda Jackson Stella McDaniel f Adriana Magalhaes Liam Locke Brenda Taylor Mirelzaya Karina Fernandez Wkston VMter Abigail Reyes Ava Snyder Harlow Humphrey Damien Ramirez Rey pfeiffer Abbe Bad bitch Carina Cheema IJohana Cabrera big chungus Larry Shelton Luna Muro Muscatine, US Seattle, US Los Angeles, US Wheeling, US Portland, US Newark, US Stoneham, US Smyrna, US Sterling Heights, US Napa, US Saint Louis, US Sugar hill, US Parker, US Denver, US US Columbus, US castroville, US Los Angeles, US Minneapolis, US Lewiston, US Tyler, US El Segundo, US 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 2020-12-09 Name Location Date Emmie Mathieu Seattle, US 2020-12-09 Oksanna Pales Davie, US 2020-12-09 Bee Lunar Brighton, US 2020-12-09 draco bangasimbo Manchester, US 2020-12-09 Nathaniel Loya El Paso, US 2020-12-09 mahnoor khan Raleigh, US 2020-12-09 Alanda Mangum Saint Louis, US 2020-12-09 Camille M Centereach, US 2020-12-09 Prieta Givens Chicago, US 2020-12-09 Amilyan Lavigne Newport News, US 2020-12-09 Mikaylajelneck Elkridge, US 2020-12-09 Zubair Ikram Murphy, US 2020-12-09 Ashley Dakers New York City, US 2020-12-09 Maya Navarro Finley Beaverton, US 2020-12-09 Hope Barber Cadre grove, US 2020-12-09 Teleah Johnson Flossmoor, US 2020-12-09 Iyana William's Carol Stream, US 2020-12-09 Dulce Cruz -Garcia Los Angeles, US 2020-12-09 Kennedy Skipper Westerville, US 2020-12-09 Angie Cevallos Brooklyn, US 2020-12-09 Jena Potter Langley, US 2020-12-09 Keaton Mosley Hampton, US 2020-12-09 Adriana O'Neil Canonsburg, US 2020-12-09 Brody Gedge Santa Clarita, US 2020-12-09 Jennifer McKenna warwick, US 2020-12-09 Riley Stafford Tampa, US 2020-12-09 Rayvon Marchbanks Stockton, US 2020-12-09 Morris Williams Irving, US 2020-12-09 Nydia viera Carrollton, US 2020-12-b9 Cristina Moreira Livingston, US 2020-12-09 Miriam. Bronx, US 2020-12-09 011ie F. Santa Monica, US 2020-12-09 Sara Osman Carencro, US 2020-12-09 A S Portsmouth, US 2020-12-09 Ariana Hernandez Colorado Springs, US 2020-12-09 Gisselle Rivas Los Angeles, US 2020-12-09 Akesa Mila Salt Lake City, US 2020-12-09 Sage Swanson Seattle, US 2020-12-09 Zoe Laverne LA, US 2020-12-09 Caleb Fisher Oceanside, US 2020-12-09 kylie skibickyj Rochester, US 2020-12-09 Keith Datiz Winter Park, US 2020-12-09 Jasmine Moise Plantation, US 2020-12-09 samantha lawrence Brooklyn, US 2020-12-09 Name Location Date Kalya hans Loganville, US 2020-12-09 Garrett Black Enola, US 2020-12-09 Willow Brumm Andover, US 2020-12-09 Amber Rice Prague, US 2020-12-09 Mallorie Todd Florence, US 2020-12-09 jahlia Dickens Florissant, US 2020-12-09 Delilah Godinez Garden Grove, US 2020-12-09 Rachael McGowan St. Charles, US 2020-12-09 Neharika Vajinapalli Plano, US 2020-12-09 Kimberly Ramirez Far Rockaway, US 2020-12-09 Emily Solis Comstock park, US 2020-12-09 victoria vasquez Orlando, US 2020-12-09 lucy gallego Dighton, US 2020-12-09 hoes mad Saltville, US 2020-12-09 Mel Campbell Kannapolis, US 2020-12-09 JOHN STANFORD Palm Desert, CA 2020-12-09 kennady bridges Olympia, US 2020-12-09 Susana Perez Penitas, US 2020-12-09 Prime Gaming Oakley, US 2020-12-09 Sheena Allison Phoenix, US 2020-12-09 Sierra Manning Santa Rosa, US 2020-12-09 Siranush Simonyan Salt Lake City, US 2020-12-09 Mette Peluce Los Angeles, US 12020-12-09 Valerie Ghassemy Hemet, US 2020-12-09 Eden Dodge Minneapolis, US 2020-12-09 Ma.Ana Victoria Nieva Bronx, US 2020-12-09 Madi Callahan Brandon, US 2020-12-09 Rachel Bivas Montclair, US 2020-12-09 Margaret Alexander College Park, US 2020-12-09 Kionna Fennell Newport News, US 2020-12-09 Natalie Hajjar Chardon, US 2020-12-09 Alexa Gonzalez El Paso, US 2020-12-09 miranda perez West Palm Beach, US 2020-12-09 Heather Sumter Dumont, US 2020-12-09 Keenan Walsh Gurnee, US 2020-12-09 Gabriella Rodriguez Miami, US 2020-12-09 Kate Carp Angier, US 2020-12-09 Marshall Risher Providence, US 2020-12-09 Deymian Geronimo Ventura, US 2020-12-09 Nolan Shdiemantle Golden, US 2020-12-09 Victoria Gardner Culver City, CA 2020-12-09 Elizabeth Marconi Los Angeles, CA 12020-12-09 Yosi Faynsod Westchester, CA 2020-12-09 Carly OConnor Santa Monica, CA 12020-12-09 Name Location Date Cindy Salomon Santa Monica, CA 2020-12-09 Camilla Gonzalez Los Altos, CA 2020-12-10 Lynda Misajon Ontario, CA 2020-12-10 Terry Scheurer Indio, CA 2020-12-10 Sanchez, Gloria From: Cody Carlson <codycarlson2008@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, December 10, 2020 8:54 AM To: Rocha, Grace; Bynder, Randy, CouncilMeeting Comments; Information Mail; Nestande, Gina; Kelly, Kathleen; Harnik, Jan; Jonathan, Sabby Subject: Make the check payable to: Cody Carlson Dear Honorable Mayor and City Council, If the city adopts ordinance 1360, where does this end? Will the city next decide what color I can or cannot paint my garage? Will the city tell me what 1 must eat for dinner without offers to cover the cost of my meal? Is the city going to join me in my backyard without permission, in the cartilage of my own home? You see, this is a dangerous precedent that the city is setting. The city is mastering a plot of turning neighbors on each other, instead of bringing them together. We have repeatedly asked for a commission, not a committee. Zero effort was made to even consider that idea. In the future, will you move so boldly and quickly to take away other rights from Palm Desert residents? 1 believe the answer is yes. The council will see their efforts here as a win and continue to push stronger regulations on residents that do not want the government involved with their lives. If the city continues to disregard the separation of government and citizens rights by adopting ordinance 1360 tonight, they must be prepared to write me a check for $400,000. Not to mention, I need to recoup my intended annual investment return for a few years in addition to the amount 1 have put into my STIR. Adding 2 years with a stock market average of 7% to the check is hardly fair, but a decent negotiating point. I hope the check is mailed immediately after the vote, although I doubt the city has any plans to make anyone whole, which is in direct violation of the most precious doctrine of our country: The United States Constitution. We were told to sell or switch our means of income. Really? How rude and disrespectful. Everyone has the option to sell, not just us. Our land is no different from that of our neighbors. Appreciatively, Cody Sanchez, Gloria From: Kevin Aziz <kevinaziz7@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, December 10, 2020 8:23 AM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: STR Dear City Council, I bought my house in July of 2019 with the purposes of short term renting. The listing stated "STR approved area" anc the owner even received a permit from the city to prove. Inside the house they had copies of the permit showing STR compatibility. Our initial have investment was $132,5000. We then decided to invest $200,000 in improvements throughout the house, which we hired all local contractors for. We built a new pool/spa, redid the kitchen, bathrooms, remove grass to make our home more eco-friendly, made improvements to the front and back yard, fixed all issues found during our inspection, and so on. We could not rent the house out until June because of COVID, which means we have not been operating for most of the year. We have been unable to recoup even a quarter of our investment, not to mention we continue to have costs (mortgage, staff, continued improvements, etc.), which have cut into our attempts to recoup our investments. None of this would have been done if the city did not allow STRs. Is the city ready to write me a check for $400,000? What if I cannot sell my house or find a renter when the permit is revoked? Will the city right me a check to buy my home or provide me assistance? A 1 year sunset clause is NOT enough time. Sanchez, Gloria From: Judy Swanson <jswanson@connectkc.com> Sent: Thursday, December 10, 2020 8:53 AM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: Second Reading of STR vote Dec.10 Attachments: We sent you safe versions of your files; Letter for tonights meeting re STR.pdf Mimecast Attachment Protection has deemed this file to be safe, but always exercise caution when opening files. Please include this letter for the record of tonight's meeting. Thanks! Judy Swanson From: Judy Swanson jswanson@connectkc.com Subject: Letter for tonight's meeting re: STR Date: November 19, 2020 at 9:45 AM To: kswartz@cityofpalmdesert.org Cc: Cody Carlson codycarlson2008@gmail.com November 19, 2020 Kevin Swartz Associate Planner City of Palm Desert RE: Short-term Rental Ban Please forward this communication to the Board for inclusion in November 19, 2020 meeting Responsible STR Hosting is my #1 TOP PRIORITY, and that priority is evidenced in my time, investment dollars, maintenance and upkeep of my property. Most importantly, it's the pride I take in this business and joy I create AND receive between myself and my guests. It provides my husband and myself a vehicle to make Palm Desert our retirement home in the near future and to share this beautiful community with others. My husband and I purchased a condo property in Palm Desert in January of 2014. We immediately fell in love with the community during a December 2013 visit to a very close friend who lives here permanently. We were several years away from retirement at the time, and the only way we could buy our retirement property was to rent it short term during shoulder and summer months. During the past seven years in talking with others doing STRs in the community, a majority of them have a story to tell that sounds just like mine. Our new condo neighbors hosted a dinner for us that first year and when I mentioned that we were going to do STRs, they were aghast. "No, NO1 You don't want to do THATI" Little did they know that this is a serious business for me, that I had a business and marketing plan, rental contracts and documents, security procedures, and I expected to get to know my guests on a first -name basis BEFORE they even set foot in my home. I thank Cody Carlson, who founded vronpd_org, to provide a forum for STR owners to collaborate and to produce Best Practices Documents for BOTH Hosts and Guests. It is ESSENTIAL for STR Owners to work at being the best community partners possible. STRs allow people from the world over a birds -eye view of what everyday life is like in Palm Desert -- rather than a transient group of individuals seeing our community from a hotel -room window. The COVID-19 Factor The current pandemic has created a stressed, worried and fearful world. This summer, home owners in STR communities were on higher alert around out-of-town guests. STR guests were behaving poorly in their new-found freedom from their cooped -up world of urban living. This past summer produced one of the highest periods for city complaints. HOWEVER, after Labor Day those complaints dropped back to a more normal level. Unfortunately, the bad news always takes precedence over the good. This phenomenon that has everyone in attack mode will merely be a blip on the screen once the pandemic is contained. I believe that banning short-term rentals altogether or as a result of a time -related event requires careful research and input from the community as a whole. The negative impact it will have on property values (the majority of us depend on the income to maintain our property), and the related ancillary businesses that will falter (cleaning services, maintenance services, restaurants, golf courses, etc.) will be significant. I believe the best course of action is for STR owners or representatives to work with the city council in a constructive way to improve resident, host and guest experiences. Respectfully, Judy Swanson 816-309-1444 jswanson @ connectkc.com Sanchez, Gloria From: Rebecca Flanagan <cvtaflanagan@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, December 10, 2020 9:56 AM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: Ordinance 1360 0 •t Z S Good morning, y�r�„n Please read the following letter into the record for today's meeting. rnmm enn;1c - December 10. 2020 o m� Dear Honorable Members of the City Council: I'd like to say welcome to the newest member, and thank the rest of the City Council for keeping 75 percent of the City open for short-term rentals. This new ordinance 1360 only includes the four PR neighborhoods without any HOA protection and thus allows us the same rights as the neighborhoods with RI distinction. It is very unfortunate that the short-term vacation rental coalition sees this as an opportunity to create chaos and try to reopen the protections of the 25 percent left of Palm Desert where short term rentals are not allowed. This fraction of Palm Desert is the only place left where neighbors stay in their houses for at least 27 days or stay on the same property as their renters, if they even rent at all. You have begun the process to help the four areas that are affected, and I respectfully ask that you continue to preserve at least one -quarter of Palm Desert for people who do not want to suffer in a neighborhood plagued by short-term rentals. As we have learned from the past meetings, most of the STR owners do not live next to an STR with a constant flow of strangers and parties or for that matter, even live in the city of Palm Desert. They do not have children who want to play outside without the worry about getting hit by one of these inebriated revelers who tend to speed down our streets. They do not hear the extremely loud music, or the yelling of foul language regularly heard at these vacation rentals. They do not think about people who must work in the morning and would like to be able to have one room free of this noise before 10 pm every single night. Even with the doors closed tight and loud fans on, the yelling and bass from the parties permeates our house. In fact, the noise from these rentals permeates all the houses surrounding it. The STR owners think that the responsibility of keeping people from loud gatherings is something the City, police and other neighbors need to address, instead of realizing that it is their responsibility. They blame everyone else for bad STRs and often admit there is a big problem yet, beg for us to come up with a solution. Well, that solution is here tonight. 1360 is the best compromise for everyone, not just a few. The owners of these STRs say they employ gardeners and other maintenance people. Well, so do the residents. We hire those same people to work and keep them employed long after the STR people have made their money and moved on. We pay taxes, eat out at local restaurants and also spend our money in Palm Desert. Furthermore, you should know that the residents speaking out against STRs in these four areas only represent a fraction of the people who support this measure. I have personally spoken to many residents, the silent majority of people, who live in these neighborhoods and are too afraid to get involved because they will be retaliated against just as we have been on our street. The STR owners on our street have sent threatening letters to all of us more than once, have called us names in their correspondences to the City, and continue to publicly display their hate for the neighbors. Other residents who have seen and heard the vitriol coming from STR owners like this, simply do not have the mental health or energy to deal with the backlash from these people, and are afraid to speak out. If you fail to pass this ordinance, then all of these areas will soon become overrun with short-term rentals. Families and good neighbors will vacate to other cities that support neighborhood communities. As it stands now, there is no amount of enforcement to contain this madness. Just imagine what will happen if you do not act to keep just 25 percent of Palm Desert free of STR's. The City will ultimately have to pay so much more money than the TOT collected from these properties, that in the end it will not financially benefit anyone but the STIR owners and management companies. As a long-time resident of Palm Desert, I respectfully ask that you move forward with your plan to phase out short-term rentals of less than 27 days in these four areas and restore our neighborhoods. Thank you, Rebecca Flanagan Rebecca Flanagan Sanchez, Gloria From: Martha Kolstad <marthak@atoz-insurance.com> Sent: Thursday, December 10, 2020 11:33 AM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: Palm Desert City Council Short Term Rental Restrictions Today the Palm Desert City Council will be addressing restrictions on short term rentals. Our family has concerns about any further restrictions to homeowners who wish to continue to have short term rentals of their personal property. People who wish to do this hold potential renters to the highest standards - who would want their personal property damaged or cause inconvenience or stress to their neighbors? HOA approval for permits opens a whole new can of worms that could be construed to be implemented unfairly or unjustly due to many things including personal preferences, grudges, politics, social standing, economic bias, etal. I believe it would be too arbitrary to enforce fairly and completely. I am totally against any further restrictions to our personal rights as homeowners as there are ample restrictions and very complete rules already in place in our HOA's. Sincerely, Mrs. Martha Kolstad r-- ynelp�,• Ki,i,'n ®like is an Facebodd IMMLM:rit17Y i1 Martha Kolstad A to Z Insurance, Inc. zorq Small Business of the Year, CA District 23 c v 12o9 East Shaw Avenue o Fresno, CA. 93710 559-226-1561 Office 559-226-1567 Fax W >; Sanchez, Gloria From: Drew Maclurg <drewmaclurg@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, December 10, 2020 12:00 PM To: Nestande, Gina; Harnik, Jan; Kelly, Kathleen; Jonathan, Sabby; Weber, Susan Marie; Information Mail; CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: Opposition to Ordinance 1360 Good afternoon,l wanted to take this opportunity to reiterate our strong opposition to this proposed Ordinance 1360. I own a STR in Palm Desert and I absolutely love the city and my neighborhood. I made an investment in Palm Desert for the long term in the hope to retire in the community someday. That being said, I really don't want anything to change. Palm Desert has been a worldwide hub to visit for snowbirds and families to visit for generations. STRs allow a safe, quiet and clean space for these people to gather. This afternoon, I would like to address the ways how modern technology can stop and eliminate parties or loud noise before a neighbor has time to report the noise. Over the last 2 years I have used a system called Noise Aware, which protects my home from noise issues, property damage, and false complaints. The system provides me with instant awareness of what's happening at my property, alerts me via text if there is noise over my pre-set thresholds. This allows me to act quickly, within seconds to text, message, or show -up to the front porch to address the problem at hand. I have a great relationship with my neighbors after the use of Noise Aware. My neighbors on the street have no longer had issues with my renters next door since I am able to address any noise over the city noise ordinance. I really think there is a way to combat noise complaints with the use of technology as a requirement for all STR properties in order to keep rentals in Palm Desert. In addition, are you prepared to make me whole if you pass Ordinance 1360? 1 bought my house in May of 2020 with the purposes of short term renting. The listing stated "STR approved area" and the owner even received a permit from the city to prove. Inside the house they had copies of the permit showing STR compatibility. My initial investment was $120,0000. We then decided to invest $20,000 in improvements throughout the house, which we hired all local contractors for. We redid the kitchen, bathrooms, remove grass to make our home more eco-friendly, made improvements to the front and back yard, fixed all issues found during our inspection, and so on. We could not rent the house out until June because of COVID, which means we have not been operating for most of the year. We have been unable to recoup even a quarter of our investment, not to mention we continue to have costs (margate, staff, continued improvements, etc.), which have cut into our attempts to recoup our investments. Kind Regards, Andrew MacLurg � Drew MacLurg d =rMX Masters of Business Administration 13' Bachelor in Business Administration 12' o Azusa Pacific University m o Sanchez, Gloria From: Elizabeth Kolstad Sent: Thursday, December 10, 2020 12:00 PM To: CouncilMeeting Comments Subject: Palm Desert Vote on Short Term Rentals Restrictions Re. Palm Desert City Council addressing restrictions on short term rentals I have serious concerns about any further restrictions on homeowners who wish to continue to have short term rentals of their personal property. People who rent their personal properties are fully aware of the possibility of damage to their home, or stress caused to their neighbors, and thus are very particular about to whom they will rent. Especially in gated communities when renting has to be done within very specific parameters already. HOA approval for permits opens a the system up to,many problems, including approvals being construed as unfairly or unjustly implemented; favoritism shown due to many things, personal preferences, politics, social standing, economic bias, personal grudges, etc. On the most basic level, it is a direct violation of our personal rights. Homeowners have the right to do with their property what they please and that right cannot be legislated away arbitrarily. Unless the council or those pushing for these restrictions can show that there is an epidemic of unrest, property damage or out of control crime sprees due to the practice of short term rentals, you leave yourself open to lawsuits. Among other things, I believe the system would be impossible to enforce fairly and completely and the time required to go through the process alone would be unduly burdensome to owners. I am absolutely against any additional restrictions to our personal rights.as homeowners, and strongly suggest the council weigh all legal ramifications of trying to further restrict our rights. Regards, Liz Kolstad Palm Desert Homeowner