Local Communities & Airbnb
Thought:
Why don’t local government or local communities set up Airbnb locations, whose generated income gets pumped back into the immediate area?
I do not intend or foresee this being a solution to any housing crises, but more of a conflict resolution where local areas end up utilizing certain new developments in society to enhance their areas without feeling disconnected and without control.
Benefits:
- Results in alternative income for the neighborhood outside of direct local government initiatives.
- Local communities vote on how to allocate this money back into the area, and can then build better public amenities and fund local initiatives like: food gardens, co-ops, local artist grants, co-working spaces, etc.
- Money doesn’t leave the community as it currently does when individuals run Airbnbs.
- Incentive to keep local water, air, attractions, infrastructure in good order.
Difficulties:
- Large initial upfront cost for the local government or community to purchase property and set up a non-profit organization, but this could be subsidized at the local or state level.
- Ownership - Co-Op might work, or even tying it to the community boards, so as to not add extra levels of bureaucracy.
- Alternative HOA solutions might will need to be discussed.
- Transparency will be critical here so that the community can see the ins and outs, as well as where the money is going to be re-invested.
- Handling of budgets. NYC participatory budget process allows for email updates about this process which seems pretty transparent. https://council.nyc.gov/pb/
Smaller details:
The Airbnbs could be designed/decorated by local talent, as well as showcase local artist’s work inside the units which can all be purchased.
Craft experiences that immerse the visitor in the local community.
Extra reading:
http://crosscut.com/2017/06/homelessness-housing-crisis-seattle-vienna-solution/
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