Council debates balancing Loma Linda’s ‘health and prosperity’ image with revenue needs; staff to pursue short-term-rental rules

A broad discussion about economic development, city identity and enforcement of short-term rentals dominated part of the meeting as councilors weighed how to preserve Loma Linda’s ‘health and prosperity’ character while addressing budget constraints.

Dr. Weil (speaker 13) framed the conversation with a historical overview of the city’s origins and its identity tied to health and the university, and asked how ordinances or planning tools could help the city shape what types of businesses are attracted. “What are the ordinances we need to ensure the types of businesses that we want…?” Dr. Weil asked.

Council members acknowledged the tension between long-term identity and immediate financial needs. One councilor said the council must decide whether to increase revenue or decrease services; another warned that overreaching regulation can have unintended consequences and noted the city’s limited finances.

Assistant City Manager (speaker 15) told the council staff had analyzed short-term rentals and estimated between about 35 and 75 such units in the city. He said staff is planning a first reading on a short-term-rental ordinance in June with implementation possibly in July and noted that enforcement paired with a registration ordinance could allow the city to collect transient-occupancy tax similar to hotels. “We’re expecting to have a first reading in June with implementation in July,” the assistant city manager said, and staff estimated TOT collection would be 10% of gross room receipts.

Councilors also discussed code enforcement capacity—particularly for unauthorized short-term rentals—and suggested that committee work include both revenue-generation and protections to sustain the city’s identity. No formal action was taken beyond direction to staff and committee coordination.