Council confirms tourism commission appointments after debate over Airbnb operator's fit for 'hotel and motel' representation

The Superior Common Council approved six appointments to the Tourism Development Commission on Sept. 21 after several councilors questioned whether one nominee who operates Airbnb properties fit the statutory intent to represent the hotel and motel industry.

Mayor Payne presented six nominees: Steve Knauss, Joanne Jardine, Lindsey Grama, Keith Kern, Bruce Barron and Emerson Sloan. Councilor Sutherland asked whether Mr. Barron's residence and rental activity were equivalent to hotel and motel representation. Councilor Fennessy and others argued the statute intended a hotel or motel industry representative, while the mayor noted the tourism marketplace has changed.

Bruce Barron addressed the council by phone and described his part‑time residency in Superior, his small‑scale property redevelopment and operation of several Airbnb homes. "I would offer the city sort of an outsider insider perspective," Barron said, adding that short‑term rentals are a growing part of the lodging market.

Councilor Fennessy moved to pull Barron's confirmation for separate consideration; the council instead took Barron's comments and then voted by voice. A 'no' vote was recorded during the roll but the chair declared the ayes had it and congratulated Barron on his appointment.

Councilors said they considered both traditional hotel representation and the evolving lodging market, with at least one councilor arguing a more locally based, hotel‑owner perspective would better serve the commission's work. The council did not adopt an ordinance change to redefine membership; it confirmed the nominees and will rely on the commission to advise on tourism policy.