Here is a potential win-win. Presumably, the county is willing/able to exist without the property tax revenue associated with the higher tax rate for short-term rentals.

If so, why not table this entire STR ban concept (which will have untold unintended consequences for the local economy) and instead, leave STR alone but earmark the difference between the long-term and short-term rentals tax revenue for a restricted fund that will service a bond issue floated to building workforce housing.

Instead of blowing up the economy with a “solution” that will not satisfy the need for housing, develop a program that both supports the economy, employment and creates a meaningful, fiscally responsible way to meet local housing needs.

F. George Gilman

Lahaina