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What's The Fate Of Airbnb In Cincinnati?

over the rhine
Bill Rinehart
/
WVXU
According to Airbnb, Cincinnati hosted more than 47,000 guests in 2017. Many of those rentals where in Over-the-Rhine.

Short-term rentals, including Airbnbs, are popping up all over Cincinnati, particularly in the urban core. For many, they're an asset to the city, boosting the economy and generating jobs and sales tax. But for some neighbors, the growth of Airbnb is unwelcome.

Cincinnati City Council Member David Mann worries that short-term rentals are reducing affordable housing, which is already in short supply in the city. In an effort to strike a balance between providing affordable housing and encouraging tourism, he has proposed an ordinance regulating short-term rentals. The proposal includes limiting operators to owning three un-hosted units and places a 7 percent tax on owners, which will go toward affordable housing.

Joining Cincinnati Edition to discuss Airbnb rentals in the city are Cincinnati City Council Member David Mann; Coalition for Sensible Short-Term Rental Policy Member Margy Waller; and Airbnb Operator Chris Hikel.

Tune in to Cincinnati Edition Nov. 21 at 1 p.m. to hear this segment.