Please don’t kill the goose
You know – the goose laying the golden eggs – also known as the unique character and ambiance of our lovely mountain town.
Commercial and resident needs are symbiotic, and both need to be protected. In the 20 years I’ve lived here, commercial needs seem to be over-served. From the never-ending expansion of parking spaces, the failed attempt to turn NC106 into an expressway, and the attempt to drive tourism through more and more events and festivals.
Now, short-term (overnight) rentals are exploding in residential neighborhoods, potentially ruining the ‘character and ambiance’ town leaders say they want to protect.
I ask those leaders to stop the commercialization of our residential neighborhoods and clarify zoning ordinances to outlaw this harmful practice.
Jim Bode,
Highlands