Residents of Happy Valley Circle and Orange Drive expressed strong opposition to a proposed short-term rental at 5320 Ernest Drive during a recent government meeting. Local homeowners voiced concerns about the potential disruption to their neighborhood's character, citing increased traffic, noise, and safety issues associated with short-term rentals.

One resident, who presented a petition signed by 10 out of 18 households on Orange Drive, emphasized that the majority of neighbors do not support the proposal. They argued that the area, designated as R3, was intentionally excluded from short-term rental regulations to preserve its residential nature. The resident stated, \"We simply do not believe that short-term rentals conform to the character of the area,\" highlighting fears that the property could become a \"hotel house\" that disrupts their community's peace.

Another resident, Mona Reynolds, echoed these sentiments, stating that the business model of short-term rentals does not align with the needs of long-term residents. She noted that many neighbors have lived in the area for decades and are concerned about the impact on their quality of life.

Robert Tolbert, another local resident, also voiced his opposition, reinforcing the idea that the residential nature of their streets should be maintained.

The residents urged the governing body to deny the special use permit for the property, advocating for the preservation of their neighborhood's integrity and safety. The meeting concluded with a call for further consideration of the community's concerns before any decisions are made regarding the rental application.