update (May 4): STR ban lifted thanks to you!

5/5/2020

County Lifts STR Ban - Thanks to You!

Dear STRACC,

Good news! Yesterday, Chelan County Commissioners allowed the ban on STRs to expire immediately, rather than extending it with Governor Inslee's "Stay Home" order through the end of May. Our letter-writing campaign clearly worked! We estimate that more than 100 letters were submitted over the weekend by STRACC supporters like yourself.

SO THANK YOU for reminding the Commissioners that STRs are an essential service, as designated by state and federal guidelines. We can provide shelter during these difficult times to first responders and vulnerable populations, using best operating practices to ensure the safety of our guests and our community. STRs certainly did not deserve to be singled-out while hotels, inns and campgrounds were allowed to continue to operate.

While we gained a small victory in this battle, the fight for our property rights is far from over. As yesterday's press release made clear, the Commissioners are intent on pushing through new STR regulations by early August, despite a lack of public support last year. The proposed regulations include:

Requiring a $500/year permit to legally operate an STR and enforced by the Sheriff
Limiting new STRs to 1% in most areas and a 3-year ban outright in Peshastin, Manson, Chelan, Leavenworth or Wenatchee UGAs.
A restriction of two-guest per bedroom could be required with no more than 10 guests allowed per nightly rental.

So we will need your support and continued solidarity through what is likely to be a contentious review process this spring and summer. Please consider donating to STRACC so we can mount the necessary legal defense to defend our industry from tightening regulations.

Thanks,
The STRACC Executive Board