Whitestone Council approves short term rental applications amid public concerns

The Lancaster County Board of Supervisors convened on March 27, 2025, to discuss several applications for special exceptions to operate short-term rentals, a topic that has sparked significant community interest and concern.

The meeting began with a public comment period, but no input was received from residents regarding the first application for a short-term rental at 218 Wayne Circle. The applicant, Jacqueline P. Cavolo, received unanimous approval from the board after confirming compliance with local ordinances and receiving no objections from neighboring property owners.

The board then reviewed a second application for a short-term rental at 55 East Cove Lane, submitted by Randolph and Lindsay Jones. Similar to the first, this application also met all necessary requirements and was approved without public dissent.

However, the discussion took a different turn with the third application for a rental at 1239 Kelly Neck Road, proposed by Ethan and Sarah Slattery. This application drew public opposition, particularly from neighbors concerned about environmental impacts on the nearby Corotone River and potential increases in traffic and noise in their rural community. Residents expressed fears that short-term renters may not respect the local ecosystem or contribute to the community in the same way as permanent residents.

Ethan Floyd, a neighbor, articulated concerns about littering and the potential rise in property taxes due to increased property values associated with short-term rentals. Stephanie Floyd echoed these sentiments, highlighting worries about the rural character of the neighborhood being compromised by the influx of transient visitors.

Despite the concerns raised, the board ultimately moved to approve the application, reflecting a growing trend in Lancaster County towards accommodating short-term rental opportunities. This decision underscores the ongoing balancing act between fostering economic development through tourism and addressing the needs and concerns of local residents.

As Lancaster County continues to navigate the complexities of short-term rentals, the outcomes of these discussions will likely shape the community's landscape and its residents' quality of life in the years to come.