So, best thing of this whole experience: 2 ladies contacted me because of the news story. A woman who lived here as a child, and her niece. They’re coming over on Sunday to see the house they have memories in from decades ago! Now I’ll get to have some more fun stories!
Plus, the outpouring of support from people I’ve had little contacts throughout the years who have commented on the various articles and posts has been amazing.
I also had my suspicions confirmed, and it’s the people who live directly across from me are the ones who have the issue. They’re second generation to their house as well, I guess they never realized it’s going on 28 years that this little guest house has been rented out to all sorts of people. They may not also be aware that there’s at least 4 other guest houses within 4 blocks, and at least 1 other Airbnb listing. And I’m be one ruining the neighborhood. Not in the article but on the first airing, the reporter ended the story with: “one neighbor said if she wanted to live next to a hotel she would have bought a house next to a hotel…”
Another fun story: we just helped good friends move into a house across the street yesterday. While they were staging their furniture outside the old house to load, a councilman stopped and asked what was going on. They replied that they were staying in the area, and moving to Thorpe. He replied “oh, we’re having issues on that street. Someone is wanting to run an Airbnb, and we don’t think we want that here.” They kept their cool and didn’t let on they knew us (or that they’re intending to turn the old house into an Air). They said “oh, we love Airbnb, and have stayed at some really nice ones. It’s great how hosts and guests can chat and read reviews and decide who stays, and it brings tourism to the area.” Councilman: “oh, well, what are your plans for this house?” Friends: “Well, we’re holding onto it. Just waiting to see what happens before we decide how we’re going to rent it.”
Meanwhile, several neighbors and others who have relationships and pull with council people are coming to attend the upcoming meetings as a show of support. Some of the worst days of my life have turned into some of the best in many ways.