Ocean Springs Rental Wars
An argument has been raging in the City of Ocean Springs for over a year. The issue is whether or not vacation rental homes should be allowed in residential neighborhoods.
“A couple of years ago, there was a complaint and a problem and it brought it to our attention so we have been working to regulate them somehow.”
That process has divided the community and caused an outcry from those against it.
“I think it takes common sense to understand that if you’re sitting there and you’re renting out a property that you’re not living in and making a profit off of it, then that is a commercial endeavor.”
“There are sexual predators out there I don’t know these people. It’s hard enough to know your neighbors, but once you do, you want to trust where you live.”
On the other side of the debate, supporters say the city would lose residents and revenue without vacation rentals.
“I would never come to Ocean Springs if I had to stay in a hotel. I don’t go anywhere unless I have to stay one night traveling long distances.”
While some Aldermen support the ordinance that will be on the April 21st agenda, others wonder if a proposed solution would cause a wider divide.
“Even with the ordinance, you’re looking to pit neighbor against neighbor.” A problem both residents and leaders say the city can’t afford to live with.
“A couple of years ago, there was a complaint and a problem and it brought it to our attention so we have been working to regulate them somehow.”
That process has divided the community and caused an outcry from those against it.
“I think it takes common sense to understand that if you’re sitting there and you’re renting out a property that you’re not living in and making a profit off of it, then that is a commercial endeavor.”
“There are sexual predators out there I don’t know these people. It’s hard enough to know your neighbors, but once you do, you want to trust where you live.”
On the other side of the debate, supporters say the city would lose residents and revenue without vacation rentals.
“I would never come to Ocean Springs if I had to stay in a hotel. I don’t go anywhere unless I have to stay one night traveling long distances.”
While some Aldermen support the ordinance that will be on the April 21st agenda, others wonder if a proposed solution would cause a wider divide.
“Even with the ordinance, you’re looking to pit neighbor against neighbor.” A problem both residents and leaders say the city can’t afford to live with.
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