Editor:
Did you know that in Gibsons anyone can purchase a house, live off site, and rent it out on Airbnb with no accountability for the negative effects on the neighbours?
There are no laws preventing absentee homeowners from renting out as many rooms as they wish. The Town of Gibsons has not passed any limitations and the door is open to an influx of commercial enterprises in residential neighborhoods (not zoned for hotels). We have such a house nearby. It was purchased this spring and has been fully booked ever since.
Loud, late night partying, early morning shouting, increased traffic and a constant flow of new people is now the norm on our previously quiet street.
The new owners’ Airbnb site advertises a large outdoor entertainment area and offers four bedrooms for eight guests every three days.
Their profits outweigh any potential fines and so far, warnings from the bylaw officer have not been heeded. Apparently, Gibsons council is considering some or all of these issues this month.
This could be your situation at any time. If you share our concerns, please express them to town council.
D. Angelus, Gibsons
