Short term rental issues discussed at Eggs and Issues

At the semi-annual Eggs and Issues Breakfast last week, the topic of short-term rentals was brought up for discussion. The comments from county representatives were quite different. Accomack Board Chairman Robert Crockett stated that the short-term rental issue is not a priority in Accomack. He mentioned that, to his knowledge, there have been few problems, and it is not currently on the radar for the county.

In contrast, Northampton Administrator Charlie Kolakowski said that the issue is more complicated for Northampton. He explained that short-term rentals are a key part of the tourism economy, particularly in Cape Charles. “We need that activity to help support the tourist trade,” he said.

However, Kolakowski also acknowledged that the county needs to be mindful of residents whose lives can be disrupted by nearby short-term rentals. “Northampton is working hard to find a balance between the needs of both sides,” he added.

“I was working on it yesterday, I’ll be working on it today when I get back to the office, and I’ll be working on it tomorrow as well,” Kowlokowski continued. “I’ve reviewed about 100 ordinances on the subject and would welcome any ideas to help find a solution.”

Also discussed at the breakfast was the lack of long-term housing in both counties. With Rocket Lab expanding, a major problem is that workers coming to the Shore have difficulty finding housing.

Delegate Rob Bloxom mentioned that he had sponsored a bill a few years ago granting a tax credit to developers who build workforce housing. While no one on the Eastern Shore has yet taken advantage of the program, Bloxom suggested that the counties could add local incentives that would complement the state program.

A representative for Congresswoman Jen Kiggans also spoke, noting that since the election, the focus on Capitol Hill will be to ease the burden on businesses by eliminating unnecessary red tape.