Short-term rentals

Dear editor:
Idyllwild is not on the map to make some rich and others poor — some with homes, others homeless. As I see it, short-term rentals are taking over, leaving long-term renters pushed out, fearful and sad with nowhere to go.
Leaving Idyllwild to tourists, visitors and weekenders, who do not care and are not invested in our community, is not the same as our permanent renters.
Let’s not make money our goal but security and safety for those who cannot buy a home and must rent. We must be reasonable and offer affordable housing. How many short-term rentals do we need here in Idyllwild?
Motels are still an option for a weekend visit. We love our visitors, just not short-term rentals taking over our town.

Arline Citrowski
Idyllwild

Peaceful village lost?

Dear editor:
Those of us who are fortunate enough to live on this mountain might be wise to remember what drew us to want to be here. I believe for most people, it was the beautiful, peaceful surroundings. Even the visitors to our haven come to experience the quiet nature all around us to escape for a brief time the hustle, bustle and commotion of city life.
Ours is a special gift and one to protect and nurture. That serenity is regularly interrupted by the extremely loud music created at many outdoor venues around town, stretching beyond the mere entertainment of the customers of a specific establishment to disrupt the personal space of all for blocks around.
Some weekends, the “battle of the bands” is excruciating.
Respecting our common environment is up to all of us. I will do my part. Will you do yours?

Sandy Reed
Idyllwild