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Ibarra, Evelyn From: Karen OCallaghan < Sent: Tuesday, November 19, 2024 10:16 AM To: eComment Subject: SA Council Mtg 11/19/24 - Public Hearing Agenda Item #35 re: STR Ordinance Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution wnen opening attachments or links. Dear Santa Ana City Council Members, As a 35-year resident of Ward 3, 1 urge the SA City Council to, once again, thoughtfully consider the issue of banning Short Term Rentals (STRs) and conduct thorough research before making a final decision. Many local hosts started operating to supplement their income, helping them remain in their homes. According to AirDNA, 81% of STRs in Santa Ana are small properties with two or fewer bedrooms. It's important to differentiate between small, owner -occupied hosts and absentee owners who use property management companies to run their STR. While I understand concerns about the housing shortage, I doubt that STR units can significantly impact permanent housing, as most are one- or two -bedroom units inside or attached to existing homes. Santa Ana is missing out on a significant revenue opportunity. By implementing a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and permitting on STRs, as many other cities have done, our city could generate much needed additional funds. This revenue, combined with the economic boost from STR guests spending money at local restaurants, shops, and services, could be used in other areas of need within our city. Furthermore, these funds would help provide the resources to swiftly enforce existing regulations and issue fines for noise, parking, and occupancy limits, maintaining our peace and safety. In closing, I urge the Council to carefully consider these nuances instead of approving a 'blanket' ban on STRs. Let's find a balanced solution that helps responsible hosts, generates city revenue, preserves our neighborhoods, and fosters our local economy. Thank you, Karen O'Callaghan