The Little Compton Town Council has periodically discussed the short-term rental (STR) situation in town, but they have not yet taken action. The time has come.

The town council should explore policies that minimize the negative effects of short term rentals in terms of noise and other disturbances and overuse of water and septic systems. More importantly, the council should explore policies that strengthen incentives for property owners to create long-term, rather than short-term, rentals, and disincentives for creating more STRs.

We are experiencing an acute housing crisis in Little Compton. In some cases, STRs may help a year-round resident to afford and remain in their home. But an increasing number of STRs are owned by investors who have no relationship with the town.

The council could take steps to encourage STR owners to turn their short-term rental into a year-round rental. Year-round rentals attract families with children who want to support our school, people who work here and can’t afford to own a home, and seniors who may benefit from selling  their own house and renting year-round. Finding a way to convert STRs to year-round rentals would provide much-needed real estate for those who cannot afford to buy but need and want a place to live in town.

The path forward must be to put our residents and community first and find smart ways to grow year-round rentals for seniors, families, and local workers. It’s time for our next town council to make some decisions and find viable policies that turn the tide toward long-term rentals. Not everyone will agree on the best path forward and building consensus is hard work, but a passive approach on this front will not strengthen the year-round community we love.

Anya Rader Wallack

Little Compton