During a recent government meeting, citizen Robert Vetrano voiced his concerns regarding the proliferation of short-term rentals (STRs) on Marco Island, highlighting the negative impact on his quality of life and property value. Vetrano, who moved to Marco full-time in 2022, expressed frustration over the operation of a neighboring property that functions like a motel, accommodating multiple groups weekly.

Vetrano pointed out that when he purchased his home, there were no STRs in the vicinity, and the local government was in the process of implementing new ordinances to regulate such rentals. However, he noted that these plans were shelved due to the implications of Senate Bill 250, which he claims restricts changes to Marco's comprehensive plans regarding STRs.

He formally requested clarification from the state of Florida regarding the legality of STRs in residential single-family zones, citing existing deed restrictions and local land development codes that prohibit such operations. Vetrano's appeal underscores a growing concern among residents about the commercialization of residential neighborhoods and its effects on community life and property values.