Scranton residents oppose Airbnb proposal in East Mountain's R6 zone

The Scranton Zoning Hearing Board meeting on April 9, 2025, brought significant community concerns to light regarding the potential establishment of an Airbnb in the East Mountain neighborhood, the city's most restricted zone for single-family homes. Residents voiced strong objections, emphasizing the impact such a business could have on their close-knit community.

Edward Gilmartin, a long-time resident, presented a petition signed by 69 neighbors opposing the Airbnb, highlighting a lack of awareness about the hearing until the day before. He expressed concerns about the validity of the six-month residency requirement for property owners, suggesting that the proposed business might not align with community standards.

Joan Matsui, another local resident, testified that she had never seen the property owner at the Airbnb, raising questions about the owner's commitment to the neighborhood. She also pointed out parking issues, noting that the absence of sidewalks on Cherry Street forces pedestrians into the road, complicating safety for residents.

Celeste Gilmartin echoed these sentiments, warning that allowing an Airbnb could set a precedent for more short-term rentals, potentially disrupting the harmony of their small community. She emphasized the importance of maintaining the neighborhood's character, which relies on the close relationships among residents.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the tension between business interests and community integrity, as residents rallied to protect their neighborhood from what they perceive as an encroachment of commercial activity. The Zoning Hearing Board's decision on this matter will be crucial in determining the future of East Mountain and its residential landscape.