HomeMy WebLinkAboutLetter #28 Christine Walter
Subject: Short Term Rental Docket Number #PZ-2024-00180 SE.
Attention: Joe Shestak
Department of Community Services and Zoning
One Civic Square
Carmel, IN 46032
I have lived in our neighborhood for over 26 years. The presence of short-term rentals in our
quaint community of Lexington Farms HOA drives a wedge between neighbors and it
becomes annoying to be next door to a sometimes-hotel. Besides the noise and problems
with additional parking, it makes neighbors feel unsafe with the constant coming and going
of strangers. Afterall, our neighborhood demographic covers a vast majority of families with
young children and seniors who have moved to our community for a quiet, friendly, and
safe atmosphere.
Many times, a reputable individual can pass the initial screening by a short-term rental
owner, make the down payment, and bring a load of unknown guests into a small
residence. Often, they bring extended family and friends who are not on the list of approved
guests, causing extra wear and tear on the property and neighborhood amenities, while
ignoring the rules and covenants of the HOA. This situation gives rise to excessive noise,
parties, illegal parking and sometimes increases criminal activities. The problems have
become so widespread, nationally, that in March of this year, Airbnb introduced a snitching
tool to help neighbors report to the company about their host neighbor’s disruption. Some
have reported an uptick in drug dealers and prostitution inhabiting these residences.
I do not want short-term rentals changing the social fabric of our Lexington Farms
Community and risking the safety of our residents. This situation can eventually impact the
value of our properties.
Sincerely,
Christine Walter
1044 Saratoga Circle
Carmel, IN 46280