Support Airbnb in Mobile, AL

Comments

#5

I think airbnb is an asset to our community

Marcus Neto (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#10

I’m signing because I believe in the growth and prosperity of Mobile, Alabama. I believe there is room for all housing businesses, whether that’s Airbnb, hotel, or B&B stays.

Jamie Carroll (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#12

This is a no brained! It brings people to our amazing city, brings money into our amazing city, and these homes that are eye sores are being remodeled making our amazing city look even better!

Jennifer Ballard (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#23

Mobile needs Airbnb. I know they take quite a bit for occupancy tax!

Glen Shaw (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#24

AirBnbs allow me to travel with my children for competitions. We much prefer staying in houses and meeting new people when we travel.

Theresa Hoch (Auburn, AL, 2020-08-20)

#30

I am signing because my friend is someone who earns their income from Airbnb, and it seems the proper public outreach was not conducted to make people who manage Airbnb units aware of these meetings/changes. Perhaps you should create an email or mailing list of people who rent Airbnb and other properties out in the area so that the appropriate people are notified.

Amber Jacobson (binghamton, 2020-08-20)

#34

I am also a real estate investor.

SANDI FOUTZ (MOBILE, 2020-08-20)

#36

Airbnb hosts are more often individuals, who are more heavily impacted by the pandemic than corporations, who have bail outs, additional funding, and years of profits to cushion the blow. Airbnb hosts also take more pride in their individual spaces and have been doing all they can to protect themselves and their guests from the coronavirus. Allow them to continue their good work without unnecessary restrictions.

Maryanna Goff (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#37

I am an Airbnb Host since the first of this year, January 2020.
I have done over $40,000 in renovations to this home last year in anticipation of this home being an Airbnb. Before that I used it as a rental home.
My Airbnb is located on Old Shell Road and we hosted our first guest at the end of January 2020. Even with being shut down during Covid for 2 months I have paid $517.68 in occupancy taxes so far this year.
Had I kept this home as a rental, the city would have received ZERO taxes from me.

This home is in better condition and appearance today with it being an Airbnb than when it was a rental in the private sector. I have control of the upkeep of the property rather than a tenant, even thought I have strict leases.
Why is the city doing this, or better yet, why are you in support of this Mr. Manzie??

We as Airbnb Host are contributing to our city by promotion of our culture, our restaurants, and our city. Plus, I now employ people who I would not have if I did not have this Airbnb.
So in short, I am paying taxes, creating jobs and promoting our wonderful city!!
So again, Mr. Manzie, I ask what are your real issues with Mobile's Airbnb hosts?

Respectfully
Linda J. Landry

Linda Landry (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#38

I operate two Airbnb’s and would be greatly impacted by these requirements and restrictions. Running and operating our two properties had become a passion of mine - giving tourists a more local and personal experience of Mobile.

Megan Thigpen (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#39

I recently purchased my first home in the Leinkauf district and I’m seriously disappointed that my now city council representative is trying to enforce even more government regulation on private business owners already suffering from city council and the governors overreach in regards to the handling of Covid. I was excited to move away from Fred Richardson’s district. I’m hoping Levon Manzie isn’t just a younger version.

Rebekah Lasher (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#40

I love AirBnB and have used it many times

Abby Norris (Wilmer, 2020-08-20)

#44

You don’t grow something by putting more regulations on a program. Let the free market determine our city’s needs.

Robert Lee (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#47

We are property owners who provide homes thru Airbnb as well as Airbnb renters ourselves.

Ashley Fowler (Mobile , 2020-08-20)

#49

I support Airbnb and VRBO in our community.

Courtney Harris (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#50

Mobile needs this!!

Christina Holt (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#51

This is for the good of the people. We are not rich corporations. We are just trying to feed our family during these difficult times when all of our other small businesses have been forced to shut down. Have some mercy on your fellow man.

Harlan Schwall (MobileMobile, 2020-08-20)

#52

I am a renovator and owner of numerous residential and commercial properties in Midtown.

John Cocke (Fairhope, 2020-08-20)

#56

Too much government overreach... let businesses thrive!

Eric Parrow (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#59

I'm signing because of unnecessary restrictions and fees should be avoided at all costs.

Natoria Thomas (Destin, 2020-08-20)

#62

I am a current Airbnb Superhost. I have worked very hard to be a good ambassador for Mobile to visitors of our wonderful city!

Hannah Wheeler (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#63

We own and operate an Airbnb in Midtown Mobile. We love our city and enjoy sharing it with our guests. We have never had and issues with our guests. It allows me to stay home with my small kids. This is especially important now considering the pandemic and remote learning.

Katie Wheeler (Mobile, 2020-08-20)

#71

Supporting friends who have AirBnb’s!

Sarah Gill (Moss Point , 2020-08-21)

#72

Craftsmanship

Frank Henderson (Mobile , 2020-08-21)

#75

What the councilmen are doing is wrong. No representation. Fascism on display.

Vaughn Street (Mobile, 2020-08-21)

#77

I think the Air BnB rentals add a personal touch of Southern charm to our community. We have used Air Bnb rentals in different parts of the country many times. We enjoy the ability for a group to stay at one property and have the space to socialize. We always end up spending more at other local businesses because most of our budget is not spent on lodging. I think Air BnBs give tourist the chance to experience our beautiful city on a more personal level. The Air BnB hosts guarantee a beautiful stay on a more personal level. Please do not add any additional fees, taxes or restrictions to the Air BnB rentals as it will be detrimental to our City's tourist trade.
And please do not say that the Air BnB rentals should be subject to the same taxes and fees as hotels or that the Air BnBs take away business from the chain hotel industry. The two businesses do not provide the exact service. In a city of our size Air BnBs do not hurt the chain hotel business.

Barbara Cobb (Mobile, Al, 2020-08-21)

#78

I value Airbnbs in this city and what they bring to the table.

Kirsten Rand (Mobile, 2020-08-21)

#79

Because it's the right thing to do.

Adrienne Tate (Mobile, 2020-08-21)

#80

I support the thoughtful restoration of homes in my neighborhood.

Sara Cowley (Mobile , 2020-08-21)

#81

I think AirBNB is great for both Mobile tourism and citizens.

Amy Driskell (Mobile, 2020-08-21)

#83

Making the area nicer by fixing up the homes and great place for people to come and stay in
Mobile and to feel like they are at home.

Kellu Jones (Mobile , 2020-08-21)

#85

I like Airbnb and support family business

Donald Wheeler (Mobile, 2020-08-21)

#91

I support small business owners, especially those that have enhanced the community with upgrades to under-utilized properties. These upgrades have helped increase local property values, and provide a needed service to those who (for reasons including the need for social distancing) would not choose to stay in a multi-unit facility.

James Stafford (Miami, 2020-08-21)

#93

I’m signing because I believe Airbnb and patrsn are community in so many ways!

John Rand (Mobile, 2020-08-21)

#96

I believe Airbnb's provide a great service to our area!!

Carol Moon (Moible, 2020-08-21)

#97

I believe in the free market system and think this is a good example of that.

David Barr (Mobile, 2020-08-21)

#100

I own and manage 16 Airbnb properties.

Lydia Blackwell (Mobile, 2020-08-21)

#101

I support Airbnb’s in Mobile because they are an essential part of the “Support Local Business” plan in our city. As such, Airbnb’s are an important part of our local economy. They bring visitors who generate lodging tax dollars for the city and lots of business to local restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions. They also improve our neighborhoods through restoration and improvement of homes which may otherwise have fallen to neglect. Airbnb guests comprise a special group of travelers who prefer the personalized and unique experiences that Airbnb offers, especially during this time of covid. Airbnb hosts put their hearts and souls into their properties to make them comfortable, convenient, and accommodating for their guests. For many owners, it is their primary source of income. Please do not force these small business owners out of business by imposing unnecessary requirements and regulations they will be unable to meet. Mobile needs Airbnb’s!

Mary Ellingwood (Mobile , 2020-08-21)

#102

I benefit from AirBnb in Mobile, especially important to me during these times of high unemployment. Please support the ongoing welcome environment for AirBnb.

Laura Filbert Zacher (Mobile, 2020-08-21)

#106

I am an Airbnb host

Brandon Kiser (Theodore , 2020-08-21)

#107

It’s important to me to be able to stay in Mobile overnight affordably!

Beth Nations (Satsuma, 2020-08-21)

#110

I am signing because my family enjoys using Airbnb properties more than hotels. They offer charm and ease at a very affordable rate.

Jason Snyder (Hamilton, 2020-08-21)

#111

I’m signing because I use Airbnb.

Ryan Reid (Mobile, 2020-08-21)

#112

I love what Airbnbs have done for our city. They are truly a great way for out-of-towners to really see the charm and beauty of our city.

Ilka Porter (Mobile, 2020-08-21)

#117

This extra stream of income has allowed citizens to invest in restoring vacant and deteriorating buildings, and helps save historic homes that may sit vacant for years. This brings in additional revenue to the city in the form of permits, taxes related to construction cost and materials, and tax revenue from the rentals.

Airbnb withholds and pays the city and state lodging, sales and use taxes of approximately 15% from each rental, whereas long term rentals pay no additional tax.

Philip Austin (Mobile, 2020-08-21)

#119

Our family of 4 relocated to Mobile within the last year to help revitalize the city. Our first task was to renovate a house and provide it for visitors through AirBnb. Many folks who would not have come to the Mobile area have ventured down from our home state to stay in this home and poor their money into the Mobile economy. We have also had many out of state guests rent our home. It is well kept, freshly mown and sparkling clean. However, you keep pushing this agenda, and we will pull it from the short term rental market and most likely provide it for long term rental for someone who already lives here. This town does not have a positive reputation. Let us continue to promote this city and help further revitalize. Otherwise, we may leave as well.

Shannon Marcum (Mobile, 2020-08-22)

#121

We are hosts and love being able to supply a budget friendly, clean & safe experience for every kind of visitor to our beautiful city.
Last week we hosted a mother seeking a second opinion for breast cancer and this week are graduate students exploring the Gulf Coast before classes start. We take great pride in our Superhost status and are happy to help in the regulatory process where needed.

Michelle March (Mobile, 2020-08-22)

#125

AirB&Bs add tremendous value to our community. Homes and condos are being purchased and renovated to provide visitors an alternative place to stay.

Ginny Byrd (Mobile , 2020-08-22)

#126

I truly believe that individuals should be able to rent their properties as long as they have a business license and are paying taxes. Not only does it help our local economy but it helps to improve the area when owners buy blighted properties and refurbish them.
WIN, WIN for our city!

Tonyea Weber (Mobile, 2020-08-22)

#127

Short term rentals are helpful visitors and people who are doing short term business in Mobile also they are helping to renovate some homes and make it worthwhile to do that.

Jane Spicciani (Daphne, 2020-08-22)

#128

Several of my close relatives fit the description of Airbnb participants and depend on the services they provide for others.

Pat Booker (Perdido Beach, 2020-08-22)

#132

Because times change and people’s needs change. Air b&b meets people’s needs which is why it’s been so successful. Our legislators need to be Flexible and willing to change with the timeS.

Coree Weber (Mobile, 2020-08-23)

#140

No doubt, hotels serve a great purpose in giving a city the infrastructure that it needs to drive the economy. AirBNB serves, not only that exact same purpose, but much, much more:
1. Local families use Airbnb to create income, which they then spend at local Mobile businesses. The jobs that a new hotel brings are a great economic driver, but they pale in comparison to the boost the economy receives from Airbnb income.
2. The competition for Airbnb guests creates the need to upgrade and maintain these properties. This will serve to drive beautification of the city. A hotel will upgrade and beautify their one acre, while Airbnb hosts scattered throughout the city, will accomplish so much more. Oh, and they will be using local Mobile businesses for the products and services that are necessary for the upgrades and maintenence.
3. Some out of town guests that the city wants to attract are loyal Airbnb users. They do not search hotels, only Airbnb. This trend will only grow. Do not eliminate this large potential audience. Instead, harness the power of the platform to multiply your efforts.
4. You do not have to offer tax deferments or incentives to attract this economic boost.
5. Airbnb collects and pays the taxes for the local family who is renting their space. This is guaranteed revenues. If families are forced to long-term rent the same homes instead of Airbnb, the city gets nothing.
6. The Airbnb community polices each other. The robust review process, of both host and guest, is a huge deterrent for bad behavior. This encourages the host to maintain a safe and friendly environment, and requires the guest to be respectful of the communities that they are visiting.

I think it is shortsighted and very counterproductive to over regulate and try to snuff out something that is a great addition to your great city and the families and businesses there.

Donny Wheeler (Tuscaloosa, 2020-08-23)

#143

I’m signing this because air bnbs are safer, more private, and economical for get aways as a couple or as grandparents taking the grandkids somewhere.
I can save money and put the rest of the money back into Mobile checking out the local shops, museums, and restaurants with them. In a hotel, we would not be able to enjoy Mobile if all the money goes into a hotel chain.

Maria Ann Callaghan (Spanish Fort, 2020-08-24)

#144

To support Mobike AirBnB! Be fair! Don’t lose them! They are valuable to our city in many ways!!

Arnie Harrison (Mobike, 2020-08-24)

#150

I am a short term rental business owner. I own properties and manage others properties for short term rentals. I pay lodging taxes on every rental whether booked direct or through other platforms and I have a business license and insurance. I add value to our area of the gulf coast and participate in our economy in a real way.

Stephen Hickman (Mobile, 2020-08-25)

#152

I sign this petition because I believe Airbnb provides a means in which the people of our community can earn a living as well as our city (Mobile) having the chance of additional revenue being poured back into its infrastructure. It would be a disservice to withdraw this opportunity for hosts and guests of Airbnb.

Richard Stringfellow (Mobile, 2020-08-25)

#156

I care. I have booked through Airbnb all over the world, as well as, the USA. It is a choice that I would not want to lose.

Margie Wheeler (Mobile, 2020-08-28)

#158

I live now in midtown, and did so during my young and formative years. There Is no place I would rather live. I will make every effort to build up our community

Cary Buck March (Mobile , 2020-08-29)

#162

I like Airbnb and I don't believe in COVID-19.

Alicja Jaskolska (Teltow, 2020-10-17)

#163

Because our city council seems to be a little crooked.

Tara Jones (Mobile, 2020-12-26)

#164

I am an out of towner and would like to visit Mobile utilizing AirBNB homes, so many of which are so unique, charming and up to date.

Julie Nelson (Birmingham, 2021-04-14)



Paid advertising

We will advertise this petition to 3000 people.

Learn more...