The illegal vacation rental industry is out of control. Every home that is turned into a mini-hotel is one less home for local residents to live in. Clearly, illegal vacation rentals are harming our local housing supply and contributing to our rising housing and rental costs. These businesses also deteriorate the residential character of our neighborhoods. Short-term tenants have little interest in public agencies or in the welfare of the citizenry. They do not participate in local government, coach paddling, or join the hospital guild. They do not lead a scout troop, volunteer at the library, or keep an eye on an elderly neighbor. Literally they are here today and gone tomorrow–without engaging in the sort of activities that weld and strengthen a community.