HomeMy WebLinkAboutRamos, Eddie_Public Comment Regarding Short-Term Rental Regulation in San BernardinoFrom:Eddie Ramos
To:PublicComments
Subject:Public Comment Regarding Short-Term Rental Regulation in San Bernardino
Date:Wednesday, May 20, 2026 12:55:41 PM
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Good evening Mayor and Members of the City Council,
I would like to make a public comment regarding an item not on tonight’s (May 20, 2026)
agenda, specifically the proposed short-term rental ban.
I respectfully urge the Council to reconsider the current direction of a full ban and instead
pursue a balanced and enforceable regulatory program for short-term rentals.
My husband and I were raised in San Bernardino, attended school here, worked here, and
chose to invest in this city because we believe in its future. During a time when many people
overlooked San Bernardino, we purchased and improved our property with the goal of creating
something positive that would bring visitors, families, and revenue into our community.
Our experience operating a short-term rental has been overwhelmingly positive. We have
hosted families, healthcare workers, business travelers, church groups, educators, and visitors
attending local events. Many guests have shared that their stay changed their perception of San
Bernardino in a positive way. We have taken pride in maintaining a high-quality property,
being responsive to neighbors, following rules, paying taxes, and operating responsibly.
Short-term rentals can bring meaningful Transient Occupancy Tax revenue to the City and
support local businesses including restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations, cleaners,
landscapers, maintenance workers, and other service providers. These are real economic
impacts that benefit the community, especially as the City prepares for the upcoming fiscal
year and continues balancing major operational costs and financial obligations.
I understand there have been concerns involving certain properties, and I fully support strong
enforcement against irresponsible operators. However, I do not believe responsible
homeowners and small business operators should lose their livelihoods because of a small
number of situations. The Planning Commission and City staff already spent significant time
developing a regulatory framework with oversight and enforcement tools that could address
issues while preserving the benefits these rentals provide.
I respectfully ask the Council to revisit the ordinance and consider regulation instead of a
complete prohibition. I believe there is a path that protects neighborhoods while also
supporting local business activity, tourism, and revenue for the City of San Bernardino.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Eddie Ramos