Residents of Union Street are voicing concerns over the impact of recent zoning changes that have transformed their neighborhood into a hub for short-term rentals. During a recent community meeting, a local resident, Liz, shared her distress over the loss of regulatory control following the reclassification of properties from residential to commercial use. This shift has led to an influx of short-term rentals operated by larger institutions and faceless entities, which she believes has contributed to a decline in neighborhood safety and cohesion.

Liz recounted a troubling incident where an unfamiliar man was found sleeping on her sofa after mistakenly entering her home, having rented a property on Union Street. This incident highlighted the confusion surrounding rental properties in the area, where it has become increasingly difficult for residents to distinguish between homes occupied by families and those rented out to transient guests.

The community is grappling with the consequences of these changes, as residents feel their neighborhood is deteriorating despite its outward appearance. The meeting underscored the urgent need for discussions on how to address the challenges posed by short-term rentals and restore a sense of stability and safety in the community.