Redwood City residents ask council to investigate short-term rental after nearby shooting

Several Redwood City residents used the public-comment period on April 2 to urge council action after a violent shooting near a property they say operates as a full-time short-term rental.

Matthew Arales told the council the house at 3050 Hastings Ave has been the focus of neighborhood complaints for four years, including allegations that the owners are not local occupants, that the property exceeded permitted rental days and that no local responsible party was identified for emergencies. Arales said the property was the site of a violent shooting last week and asked the council to direct staff to investigate ordinance violations and, if violations are found, revoke the rental permit.

Tom Imer said he and his wife encountered moving crews who told them the house was being "staged for Airbnb," and that a parade of transient guests had created stress and safety concerns in the cul-de-sac. Allison Bowe said two people were shot several hundred feet from her home while her young children were playing nearby and urged the council to review the property under the short-term rental ordinance.

Speakers said they compiled a history of complaints and provided contact information to staff. The council did not take formal action on the short-term rental during the meeting; public comment was recorded and councilmembers indicated staff enforcement and follow-up are options.

The meeting transcript shows no immediate motion or vote on enforcement for 3050 Hastings Ave; residents asked for staff investigation and possible permit revocation.