5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Opening Lincoln County
Kristi Peter
Opening Lincoln County
Aaron Linfoot - Meredith Lodging
Dear Lincoln County Commissioners and Mayors,
Lodging is such an integral part of the tourism on the Oregon coast. It feeds a tremendous amount of the local restaurant and shop scene. Businesses, and all of the workers and their families, have suffered tremendously. Lodging is typically feast or famine. We are in a prolonged famine. You have seen the unemployment numbers for our county for April – the highest in Oregon. It is imperative for the survival of these businesses, the employees, and their families that we allow visitors to the Oregon Coast again
Requiring occupancy at 6 regardless of property size significantly hurts our local property owners and our staff that depend on the work to support their family. Vacation rental properties provide a unique asset class that allows for guests to practice social distancing with neighbors and communities. They allow for a safe amount of distance between properties, which is something that hotels are unable to provide - rooms next to each other and access doors in front of each other. June is already showing as a VERY low occupancy month, and this requirement will result in the few existing bookings property owners have to likely cancel their stay. Please work with the already established occupancy licensing requirements.
Our local businesses are under significant economic strain and many are facing the stark realization that they will need to close their doors permanently. We ALL want the same result, to open our coastline back up to visitors and tourists while keeping ourselves, our friends and loved ones safe. With summer right around the corner, the livelihood of thousands of local individuals and establishments are dependent on being back open and operational.
Respectfully,
Aaron
Aaron Linfoot, COO
Meredith Lodging
O: 541.996.2955 | MeredithLodging.com
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Kristi Peter
(no subject) 1 message
Adriana Martinez
I work as a member of the local lodging economy. My job relies on properties to be rented, which in turn allows me to provide food for my family. These last two months have been so challenging. Please help open up vacation rentals. They provide social distancing to all guest and neighbors, more so than any hotel can offer. Please do NOT limit occupancy at 6. My ability to stay working and living on the coast depends on it.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666621608842233615&simpl=msg-f%3A16666216088… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Vacation rentals
Kristi Peter
Vacation rentals 1 message
Alma Thompson
I understand that there is a suggestion that house rentals be further limited to a cap of six visitors no matter what the original rule stated. At the same time, hotel/motel rooms carrying as many as four per room. Apart from the obvious stupidity in this, it is clearly prejudicial to the house rental in the county. I would hope that science and fairness will carry the day over what seems like unending hostility to those of us who share our homes in order to own and enjoy them. Sincerely, Alma Thompson Homeowner in Yachats since 1972.
Sent from my iPhone
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Kristi Peter
Fwd: Opening Lincoln County 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
------Forwarded message ------From: Amanda
Hello Katie, Mayors, City Managers, City Counsels,
Please consider this as you all discuss our future at your meeting.
95%-98% of people infected will have mild symptoms, according to the CDC. The virus has to enter the body through the mouth, eyes, or nose. If you touch something contaminated, you will not be infected, unless you then touch your mouth, eyes, or nose. Think of all the stores that have remained open in our county, with all the many customers that have came and went and our infections are still low. What did people do when they went out? They wore masks, used sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes. They protected themselves. They made good, informed decisions. Oregon has done a wonderful job at flattening the curve. We have some of the best numbers in the country. That was the goal of the closure. Lincoln County Leaders can no longer make decisions, by sitting back and waiting to see what others will do. As our elected officials we are counting on you to make prudent decisions. Decisions that are best for our all in our county. We do not need decisions that are based on what you fear could happen. The state of Oregon did not close private RV parks or hotels. The state allowed these businesses to remain open. Their opening had no impact on the virus numbers. Continuing to force closure of business is not a solution to this problem and it will not keep people from coming to our area. Do not be afraid of large numbers of people coming to our area. This is a natural occurance for our area. Businesses will be prepared. People coming will be prepared. It is time to stop treating people as if they are stupid and need to be told how to do everything. That is not the job of an elected official. That is our job, as the public. Yes, there is always one or two who won’t play by the rules, we have citizens of our county that do not play by the rules, and that behavior can be addressed, if and when, it happens. Shutting everything down is no longer the solution. We must continue on with life, while living with and fighting the virus. We can not afford to wait until it “goes away”. We can fight it by washing our hands, keeping physical distance, wearing a mask if needed, and staying home when we are sick. This is how OHA is telling us to fight the virus. Our “high risk” population, 28% of Lincoln Counties population, in our governor’s opening plan, she suggests they continue to stay at home. This allows the other 72% of the population to get back to life. As our leaders, how are you being fiscally responsible to the county and our cities? As I am sure you are aware, the closure has all ready had an enormous impact on the economy. Local, state, and national. The impact is effecting private business and government business. You are probably looking at your budgets for next year. These impacts will be felt well into next year, perhaps longer. No Money makes it difficult for anything to continue. Public meetings are still a right of the people, even in a time of emergency. It is not good practice, to make decisions prior to meetings, and use meetings to pass what has been previously decided. It appears the last meetings have been this way. No public input was shared, just shared the number of emails received. As https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666674339723684759&simpl=msg-f%3A16666743397… 1/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Opening Lincoln County Amanda
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
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Kristi Peter
Lodging Reopening Plan and Short Term Rentals 1 message
Arthur & Carol van der Harten <[email protected]> Wed, May 13, 2020 at 7:14 PM To: [email protected]
Dear Sir,
Thank you to you and your colleagues and staff for drafting a lodging reopening plan in these less than ordinary times. My wife and I are the owners of a vacation rental in Lincoln City, which is managed by Meredith Lodging. We appreciate your prudence and caution to limit further spread of the COVID19 virus, however, we are puzzled to see the limitations you imposed on the number of occupants, regardless of what the rental is licensed for. Meredith lodging has submitted a letter for your review in which a number of reasons are presented to you questioning the necessity of these limitations. I have enclosed the letter for your convenience. We would like to ask you to please review the arguments made by Meredith Lodging and reconsider imposing limitations on the number of occupants in a vacation rental in your reopening plan.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Arthur van der Harten Carol van der Harten
970-533-9955 [email protected] PO Box 1025, Mancos, CO 81328
Rental Property: 2729 SW Anchor Ave, Lincoln City.
Meredith LettertoLincolnCounty.pdf 114K
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Kristi Peter
Public Comment for Joint Meeting 5/14 1 message
Ashley Grout
To the County Commissioners, Mayors, City Councils and City Managers,
I am a citizen of rural, Central Washington. I know that as I am not a tax payer in your county or towns, my opinion may be unwarranted, however I simply wish to share with you all my hopes that you will seriously consider approving reopening of short-term rentals come June 1, 2020.
For many years, my small family and I travel multiple times a year to your towns to enjoy the beach and get some much needed relaxation from our regular lives. It is our goal one day to retire to your beautiful area.
My family and I have been in lockdown since before March 23, 2020. We have followed our Governor's Stay At Home Order. We practice social distancing when we need to go out. I own a business with 28 employees, I sent everyone home to telework because I care about their health and safety. I care about the health of my family, my employees, and ultimately, the health of the public.
Last fall we reserved a vacation rental in Lincoln City for late June 2020 to celebrate our 5th and my parents' 40th wedding anniversaries. We have been keeping a close eye on what has been happening in Lincoln County, and we are hopeful that you will consider allowing short-term rentals again come June 1, so we may come back and support your local economy and enjoy all the area has to offer.
Short-term rentals allow my family to stay together in a safe environment, while we enjoy the beach. While we may not be able to visit our favorite restaurants and shops, we can cook together, walk the beaches together, and spend quality time together in a place we all love to visit, all while socially distancing ourselves from others.
Any loosening of restrictions comes with a risk of an increase in cases of COVID-19. There is a social responsibility for all of us American citizens to protect ourselves and others from the spread of this virus. This can be accomplished with short-term rentals, we can sanitize, social distance, and act like the respectful adults that we are. We love your county, and we only want to support you during this time. Please allow us to return in June so we can support your local economies, and hopefully have an opportunity to relax from the past 8+ weeks of stress and devestation we've seen across the country.
I thank you all for the opportunity to comment and hope to visit in a few weeks.
Respectfully submitted,
Ashley Grout 509-398-0703 Ephrata, WA
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Kristi Peter
STR occupancy limit 1 message
Beverley Bowen
Whilst I am very grateful to see that my STR will be able to honor the bookings we have from June 1st, I am very concerned by the 6 person limit. My house has 4 large bedrooms and could be licensed for 14 occupants. We have always limited our occupancy to 10 for maximum comfort for all our guests. Being a larger VRD the vast majority of our bookings for the rest of the year are for 9-10 guests as most guests book to maximize their value for money. We would be left with the choice of cancelling the rest of our bookings or asking our guests to chose who to leave home. We will struggle to cover our expenses this year having lost April and May's rental income. Losing the summer season would cost us a lot of money. My husband and I are retired . The income from our STR is an important part of our retirement plan.
I understand the idea behind limiting short term lodging as a way of limiting visitors to the city but limiting the occupancy of a particular type of STR , seems unnecessary and unfair, particularly as the larger STRs play a particular role in our guests lives allowing them to gather a family in one place.
Please reconsider the 6 person occupancy limit
Regards
Beverley Bowen
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666619649941616086&simpl=msg-f%3A16666196499… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Opening STRs in Lincoln County
Kristi Peter
Opening STRs in Lincoln County 1 message
Beverly Verna
We have read Exhibit A regarding the Reopening Framework Plan. As owners of a short term rental in Lincoln County we feel there are numerous ques ons that need to be addressed before STRs are opened.
- What safeguards or assurance of these policies will be ins tuted? Will they be policed? Are there penal es for non-compliance? - If there are 6 renters in a short term rental and one is Covid-posi ve, how many do you expect will be infected a er one week in the house together? - Lincoln County now has had 8 cases. Are there projec ons on how many cases there might be in 45 days? By the end of the summer? How many of those addi onal might be caused by opening up short term rentals? - How many cases would there need to be a er 21 days for rentals to be shut back down? - The state’s guidelines say there is a low risk for housekeepers who work cleaning hotel rooms. Do you agree with this? Do you feel there is a low risk for housekeepers cleaning whole-house rentals? - What are the guidelines if a housekeeper has been exposed to a house with a Covid-posi ve tenant? Will they be no fied and contact tracing go into effect? - What are the guidelines if a housekeeper feels ill and may or may not have Covid-19? - Will tes ng be available for all housekeepers? Should they be tested regularly? - If a housekeeper has Covid-19 (symptoma c or asymptoma c) will the next tenants be subject to ge ng infected from that housekeeper? - Kitchen items are not men oned. Do you have specific requirements for the cleaning of the kitchen? Specifically dishes, all utensils, spices, condiments, toasters, ovens, microwaves, etc. - Do you have specific recommenda ons for the refrigerator and le -over foods? - Are there recommenda ons for the freezer and associated ice maker. We know people reach into the ice maker with bare hands. We also have heard that the virus can live indefinitely in a frozen state. - Can you give recommenda ons on where we can purchase disinfectants, hand sani zers, masks, or similar ppe products for housekeepers? - Are there any considera ons to disallowing rentals to people from out of state? We have groups from Nebraska, Georgia, New York, Utah, Michigan and California coming. - Are there safeguards being ins tuted to protect people who own rentals from ge ng sued if the tenants get Covid-19 as a result of the rental? Is there any liability to the County in this or similar regard?
These are only some of the ques ons we have that need to be addressed before short term rentals should be opened up.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666621791042616572&simpl=msg-f%3A16666217910… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Re: STR
Kristi Peter
Re: STR 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
Hi Dorothy,
Thanks for your comment, I have forwarded it onto the public record. Our joint meeting with cities is today at 3pm and you can watch from the City of Newport page.
Kaety
On Thu, May 14, 2020 at 8:58 AM dorothy sternkucha
Secondly, I must say, as a citizen living in a residentially zoned community, how very disappointed I am that you are selling my right to live in a quiet, peaceful and safe place to the interests of commerce.
I realize that through this STR industry you generate money. I appreciate the fact of your needs, and support your efforts in the governance of our County by the taxes I pay.. However, I object to you putting commercial enterprises ahead of my rights in the pursuit of happiness.
There are reasons we have zoning laws. If you don’t abide by them you are abnegating your responsibilities to protect me from the nuisance, noise and clutter of living next to businesses. That simply is not right, and I say shame on you for putting your money making interests before the citizens you have been elected by to work for.
Please work for us in this and be ethically responsible by not allowing the STR industry to place their businesses in any residentially zoned areas of Lincoln County. To my mind, its no different than giving permits to fracking operations. They are both extractive and take away from the quality of life.
Sincerely, Bill and Dorothy Kucha Miroco, Oregon
Sent from my iPad
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
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Kristi Peter
6 person limit on VRD's during phase 1 - Please Reconsider 1 message
BobGeralyn
Dear county officials of Lincoln County,
We would like to request you modify the current proposal for phase 1 of re-opening Lincoln County, specifically the requirement for a 6 person limit on VRD’s. We ask that you review whether there is any increased safety risk with leaving the maximum occupancy at the current permitted limit for each VRD when comparing to similar hotel guidelines. We feel that VRD’s present a safer environment compared to Hotels, given family’s staying in a VRD can still remain isolated and maintain social distancing from others staying in the community. Also, there is no risk with sharing common facility’s with VRD’s, whereas with hotels those risks are present. Guests check in on-line and go straight to the home (that will be deep cleaned between tenants). Giving family’s and fiends the opportunity to stay in a safe environment, while enjoying the beautiful Oregon coast is what many people need after 2 successful months of self-isolation in Oregon.
Many VRD’s in Lincoln City are 3+ bedrooms and rely on family’s greater than 6 people to rent their homes. Placing a cap of 6 people will dramatically reduce the ability to rent these homes and will continue to place financial burden on both the home owners and the resulting city economy (by decreased lodging and tax revenue). We have personally had a significant financial impact from the inability to rent our home, and we have multiple bookings over the summer with more than 6 people. If we are restricted (or limited by the occupancy cap) from renting our home over the next couple of months, we will have to assume more debt that will only take us longer to dig out of (hopefully we will be able to).
Please consider changing the 6 person max, and trust that your community will safely function as we re-open. Safety has to be the number one priority, however lets trust that the other guidelines in the phase 1 plan do provide the necessary safety protocols to protect the community, while allowing us to re-open our economy.
Thank you for taking the time to read our input.
Bob & Geralyn Simpson
Home Owner in Roads End, Lincoln City
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666677530395458418&simpl=msg-f%3A16666775303… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Public comment regarding health and fairness reopening coast rentals
Kristi Peter
Public comment regarding health and fairness reopening coast rentals 1 message
Candy Neville
To the Powers that Be: I am calling on each one of you to use highest ethical standards, fairness and common sense pursuant to Covid and health regarding reopening hotels and vacation rentals on the Oregon Coast. It is tempting to be self-serving for personal interests rather than professional and inclusive. It has been suggested to limit the vacation rentals to a smaller number of people than the rules allow. And yet allow two persons per bed with two beds per single room at a motel or hotel. That allows four people to share one room! If it is healthy for four people to share one room at a motel with many rooms sharing same roof, halls, entries it is definitely healthy for the presently allowed number of people in vacation rentals to share the same roof, entries and exits. The latter allows much more space between people than a motel/hotel does. To limit vacation rental homes while allowing crowding as usual in motels in unethical, self-serving and just plain wrong. There must not be preferential treatment for motels/hotels regarding the safe- guarding of our health. If it is unhealthy for people to congregate in vacation rentals, it is more unhealthy for a larger number of people to share smaller space in rooms in motels/hotels. If that is the case - shut us all down. If it is not the case, let us all get back to business together, equitably and fairly.
Candy Neville Aha Lodge1430 King Street Yachats, Or. 97498 [email protected] 541-465-9010
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666622386320286415&simpl=msg-f%3A16666223863… 1/1 May 13, 2020 Sent via e-mail to all parties
Special Joint Meeting between the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners And the Mayors, City Councils and City Managers of Lincoln City, Depoe Bay, Newport, Waldport, Yachats, Toledo and Siletz
RE: Comments on Draft Order 5-20-136 Framework for Reopening Lodging and Short Term Rentals
We request this letter be read and entered into the record on our behalf during the May 14, 2020 Special Joint Meeting between the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and the Mayors, City Councils, and City Managers of Lincoln City, Depoe Bay, Newport, Waldport, Yachats, Toledo, and Siletz.
We respectfully request that at Phase 1 reopening you allow STR’s to operate at their PERMITTED occupancy levels.
1. Proposal to cap STR Occupancy at 6 people. This will effectively close our properties at least thru the summer and fall 2020. We own two STR properties specifically configured to accommodate families. • STR #1: Newport OR licensed for 10 occupants • STR #2: Lincoln County, OR licensed for 16 occupants
The average hotel room is 320-450 square feet and Draft Order 5-20-136 is allowing 4 people max / room. STR’s provide private, single family homes with much more space per person. We’ll compare our two STR properties to a Lincoln County Oregon oceanfront hotel. STR properties allow for social distancing superior to hotels without reducing STR occupancy below permitted levels.
Lodging Building SF Max # Occupants SF / Occupant Typical Hotel Room 450 sf 4 people Order 5-20-136 113 sf STR #1 2,080 sf 10 people permitted 208 sf STR #2 5,232 sf 16 people permitted 327 sf
Based on the SF / Occupant table above how can justify capping STR occupancy levels below permitted levels?
2. Consider consistency and lateral fairness The County continues to single out STR’s while letting the rest of the hospitality industry operate with comparatively fewer and less economically impactful requirements. If the County is honestly sincere about Phased Staging for lodging openings for community and personal safety to maximize safe people spacing and distancing, you’ve got the order wrong. The order of opening from the most to least social and personal space distancing should be: 1st: Parks and Campgrounds 2nd: Short Term Rentals 3rd: B&B’s 4th: Motels & Hotels
3. Impact to our Service Providers Continuing to restrict STR’s has a broad reach into the local economy. With the County’s March 2020 STR closing and your proposed 6 person reopening limit we will be closed down through at least September 2020. Our local resident workforce including home cleaning, landscaping, and hot tub service people will continue to be severely economically impacted by keeping STR’s closed. The trash service, water, electric, propane, natural gas, and internet services have all been placed in standby mode and is financially impacting these businesses. Finally, if we are not open for business there will be $0 Transient Room Tax paid to the County.
Respectfully,
Cassandra & Gary Pietrok Pietrok LLC and Pietrok 2, LLC 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Limiting vacation rentals to 6 family members only
Kristi Peter
Limiting vacation rentals to 6 family members only 1 message
ackannemarie
To whom it may concern, We are home owners of a lovely home on the water that we come to as often as we can in Roads End, but because we live out of State, we do not come as often as we would like. We started renting our home out as a way to generate some income and to share with others our beautiful Oceanfront view that takes our breath away every time we walk in. We are able to sleep 10 people comfortably and do not think it is fair to us or our renters if you limit it to 6 family members only. We will have to decrease our prices and disappoint alot of guests who have looked forward to their summer vacation all year long and booked several months ago. And by doing this, you are hurting Lincoln City even more than you know. Thank you, Chris and Anne Marie Smith
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
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Kristi Peter
Reopen Short term rentals and Hotels 1 message
Personal Gmail
As a homeowner in Lincoln City, the shutdown of Sort term vacation rentals has negatively impacted me immensely. The financial impacts have been substantial and the reason we were restricted was to reduce the influx of Covid Patients into the healthcare system. There have been almost no Covid patients admitted in our counties, and even at a state level we are no where near capacity of care. Please consider the costs to your citizens by maintaining these restrictions past a reasonable time-frame. Tourists can still visit our great community and maintain social distances. It’s time to stop letting fear rule our community. Thank you for your help.
Chris Opdahl
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666678811539878239&simpl=msg-f%3A166667881153… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Order 5-20-136 Re-opening short term rentals
Kristi Peter
Order 5-20-136 Re-opening short term rentals 1 message
'Chris Dowd' via BOC
I am writing regarding the current draft plan to reopen short term rentals effective June 1, 2020. I own a large 4 bedroom home in Waldport that I periodically rent out in order to provide funds to help pay expenses (taxes) so I can keep this family property. The proposed re-opening rules would limit occupancy to no more than 6 people even though there are 4 bedrooms and room for more than 6 people. This restriction does not make sense given the size and make up of the house. Federal guidelines restrict groups to no more than 10 people. I encourage you to change the restrictions to a maximum of 2 people per bedroom so that the rules make sense.
Thank you for your consideration!
Christian Dowd
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666676570132346811&simpl=msg-f%3A16666765701… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Our Voices, Lives, Towns are one
Kristi Peter
Our Voices, Lives, Towns are one 2 messages
Christopher Iverson
To My elected Officials and Leaders, I am a Lincoln City resident and rental industry worker. I had relocated to this area in 2013 and started in this industry a er migra ng to it from social services. Since the move to Lincoln City and the change in fields I have become financially independent. This current event has since made it difficult to sustain my family as I relied on over me and the stability of the rental industry. I know of some established Hotels that have disregarded the shut down as my company had closed to slow the spread. Currently, we are on board with the reopening in a safe and systema c reopening with the set dates. Unfortunately, if those dates are extended my company as many others will not be able to survive. The company that I work with has kept some of us on working from home honoring the safety guidelines and with the drop in the ability to be able to rent out the homes in a safe manner was ceased with the hopes of reopening in the first deadline phase. We understood the second extension decision and the reasoning behind it. Again, it will be unfortunate if there is an addi onal extension as we like many other businesses would not be able to survive another lengthy closure. As stated previously we have honored the closure as others have not so the strain is being felt. I fear that the hard work that has been accomplished over the years would have all be for not and I will be adding to the number in the unemployment figures if we do not have a structured opening with this next upcoming date that is set. I have a family like many others and have seen the colleagues of mine who were not as fortunate as myself struggle and yet to receive any unemployment benefits to this day which is crea ng an even larger burden on the system that is unsustainable. I implore you to please reopen, in a safe and structured systema c progression and please include vaca on rental homes as they are safer than retail businesses as the prac ces that we have included in our standard opera ng policies are less hazardous than any retail shop that has the opportunity to open themselves. I do agree we need to be safe and hold people and businesses’ alike accountable if they do not follow safety guidelines. We have had a month to prepare for the reopening and have had me to learn what to do and not to do. Most will not be able to get that chance as they have already permanently closed their doors as they were not able to survive this first lengthy closure and others have faltered with the extension and we need to prevent a third wave of closures if we are to come out of this without a las ng impact financially. I understand this decision is mul -faceted and complex, but we all can do this if we work together, make examples of those that are reckless, and observe common sense safety and health prac ces. We are a close community, a family, friends and we will all work together as we always have to take charge of our lives and safety. If we make sure that every one knows that we will and can open and require their assistance on following safety guidelines, report and have he y cita ons for viola ons and have a report and swi response method we all can do this and save our economy, families and livelihoods. I thank you for your me. Sincerest regards, Chris Iverson
Kaety Jacobson
HI Christopher,
Thanks for the comments. I have forwarded it onto the public record. Our joint meeting with cities to discuss lodging is today at 3pm and can be watched from the city of Newport page. https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666679292224178776&simpl=msg-f%3A16666792922… 1/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Occupancy reduction due to Covid-19
Kristi Peter
Occupancy reduction due to Covid-19 1 message
Robert Gambino
Hello Crystal
Thanks for your letter of concern regarding the Lincoln County ban on vacation rentals, et all. You are one of many we have heard from that are truly hurting as a result of the economic impact this virus and restrictions have caused.
Myself and the City Councilors of the City of Depoe Bay are very concerned for, and dedicated to, the citizens, businesses and visitors to our area. We will make decisions based on solid evidence and testimony such as yours. I have read every testimonial that has been sent to the county and I understand your concerns.
Thanks and be well, Robert Gambino
To who it may concern,
I work in the property management economy for short term vacation rentals. My job solely relays on bookings and guests coming to stay in our resort communities, thus, in turn, providing me with a reliable income to support my family. Since March it has been beyond a struggle to keep my family afloat to pay bills on time and in full. We are all suffering due to Covid-19. However, to continue to keep our business closed will only make matters worse in the end as no stays provides no money for our county taxes/local businesses/or local staff to help support our economy. In addition, to reduce occupancy to 6 in all rentals, in my opinion, it will not help reduce the risk of spread at all, as most stays are family-related only and they have already been exposed to one another. A motel is less safe than any vacation rental as there is no social distancing like there is in a vacation rental. A vacation rental is set apart from other homes as they are located independently, way more than a hotel room with the only separation between guests is by a wall. Please do not reduce the occupancy of the current licensing requirements that are already in place.
Thank you for your time and I hope this email helps you all understand the impact this is having on all of us.
Kind Regards,
Crystal
-- Robert Gambino, Mayor, City of Depoe Bay [email protected] Cell 503-349-4758
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666674881446849471&simpl=msg-f%3A16666748814… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Vacation rentals
Kristi Peter
Vacation rentals 1 message
Gmail
We encourage your review to allow for normal 8+ occupancy operations resumed. We have taken the unprecedented effort to keep our properties safe for guest as well staff. Thank you and we look forward to opening back up and providing our guests a wonderful experience.
Thank you
Property owner, Lincoln, Depot Bay
Sent from my iPhone
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Kristi Peter
Re: Oregon Coast Property Rental 2 messages
Kaety Jacobson
Hi David,
Thank you for the comments. Yes, we meet in a joint meeting (virtually) with cities today at 3pm to discuss lodging. You can watch from the City of Newport page. I have copied folks on this who can add your comments to the public record.
Kaety
On Mon, May 11, 2020 at 2:46 PM David Kading
Hi Kaety,
I understand that you will be meeting soon to discuss the rental property reopening in Lincoln county. I wanted to offer a few brief notes as a property owner who relies on income in the summer months to help cover costs.
1. Whatever your findings, can we re-evaluate the framework or methodology frequently to allow for greater flexibility if things improve (every 30 days.) 2. I hope that you will consider the financial strain placed on those of us who have owned property in Lincoln County for generations (our family is not wealthy.) 3. The safety of our guests is paramount. We do, however, believe the guests are responsible for behaving appropriately (social distancing in public areas, etc..) 4. Our hot tub is new and properly maintained and treated. We have it drained sanitized and refilled before each new guest with an automatic chemical dispenser, always keeping it germ-free. The guests should be able to decide for themselves whether or not they will use the hot tub. 5. Given that each property is different, will we be given a method or means by which to seek an exception? Our situation is quite different than most, and I would appreciate the opportunity to explore a variance.
Thank you for taking your valuable time to address my comments and concerns. Lincoln County is my favorite place on earth, and I appreciate your continued efforts to keep it safe and beautiful.
Regards,
David Kading Senior Customer Success Manager 208-409-3338 [email protected]
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666684690469262657&simpl=msg-f%3A16666846904… 1/3 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Re: Oregon Coast Property Rental
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
David Kading
Thank you Kaety,
Unfortunately, I will be unable to watch it. I have a meeting at that time.
I have faith that you and our other trusted officials will do what is right for the property owners and residents of Lincoln County.
Regards,
David Kading Senior Customer Success Manager
208-409-3338 [email protected]
From: Kaety Jacobson
Kristi Peter
re opening plan VRD limits 1 message
DAVID SUDLOW
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to express my deep concern about the limits of occupancy of vacation homes on the Oregon coast upon reopening lodging post covid-19.
Our home is one of the older large dwellings in Lincoln City, it has been in our family for forty years. In order to keep and maintain our home we need to be able to have it rented at full capacity. We have already lost two months of income due to the pandemic in addition to other revenue loss.
So that we can continue token and enjoy our home in Lincoln City, we implore county and city officials to allow VRD's to reopen without restrictions. We understand the concern about large groups. But if they are the same folks that would be together in their own area, then we see no reason that they could not be together in our vacation home. Thanks for your consideration.
Sincerely, David Sudlow and family
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666686130247496581&simpl=msg-f%3A16666861302… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Plan for reopening Lodging
Kristi Peter
Plan for reopening Lodging 2 messages
Dee Shannon
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,
I realize you are in a difficult position of weighing the public’s physical health with the public economic health. I do not envy the job you have had to do these last many weeks. As a long time hotelier, I understand the responsibility of caring for the public as well as dedicated employees. None of us knows how many years Covid-19 will be around, nor do we know what the next catastrophic incident will be. I do know that The Landing at Newport, as well as many other hoteliers are ready to open following the CDC and State guidelines. We began preparing the day we closed and are very much in favor of opening although with caution. I agree that a phased opening would be healthy and prudent. I would encourage you to trust your business owners and managers as this is our community too.
Thank you,
Deanne Shannon
General Manager
The Landing at Newport
541-574-6777
Dean Sawyer
Thank you for your comments and I have forwarded them onto the City Council and the Lincoln County Counsel. We will be meeting with all the City Councils in the county and the County Commissioners this Thursday to discuss this issue. You can watch the meeting on Spectrum local channel 190 or on the city website at www.newportoregon.gov
Thank you for your interest in Newport.
Dean Sawyer Mayor of Newport 169 SW Coast Hwy Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] ______From: Dee Shannon
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,
I realize you are in a difficult position of weighing the public’s physical health with the public economic health. I do not envy the job you have had to do these last many weeks. As a long time hotelier, I understand the responsibility of caring for the public as well as dedicated employees. None of us knows how many years Covid-19 will be around, nor do we know what the next catastrophic incident will be. I do know that The Landing at Newport, as well as many other hoteliers are ready to open following the CDC and State guidelines. We began preparing the day we closed and are very much in favor of opening although with caution. I agree that a phased opening would be healthy and prudent. I would encourage you to trust your business owners and managers as this is our community too.
Thank you,
Deanne Shannon General Manager The Landing at Newport [email protected]
image001.gif 1K
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Kristi Peter
OPENING VACATION RENTALS 1 message
Debra Rufener
To whom it may concern, Your utmost attention to being fair and equitable concerning vacation rentals in contrast to motels and hotels is at stake at county meeting today. Since a motel averages about 325 sq ft of space for 2 people that is 162.5 sq.ft per person or for 4 that is about 81 sq.ft. Using those dimensions as a minimum most vacation rentals have much more square footage per person and limiting vacation rentals adds undue burden to the owners who have tremendous overhead before they even see profit. If the county can in good conscience re-open motel/hotels with those dimensions it seems that the vacation rentals who have considerable more space per person ought to be allowed to operate as per their license.
Sent from my iPad Yours truly Deb Rufener
Sent from my iPad Yours truly Deb Rufener
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Kristi Peter
Fwd: I write in regard to the reopening of Lincoln County Hotels. 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
------Forwarded message ------From: Debra Saude
Good Afternoon,
I am extremely concerned about the influx of travelers which would inundate our county should our Hotels reopen. My husband feels the same, ie. that reopening hotels too soon would be a recipe for disaster. He should know. He works in the hotel industry. As it is, even with the hotels for the most part being closed his hotel is being inundated with so called “essential workers” from out of state bearing sketchy documents entire families, pets, toys and whatnot. They are determined to have their vacation on the coast and will not be swayed and they’ve learned how to work the system. Many of these visitors are rude, entitled and careless which is exactly what we Don’t need right now. They behave as if nothing is different and seem to not care if they put others at risk. Case in point: 700 beachgoers in Cannon Beach over the Mothers Day weekend. The beach was closed. It was clearly posted that it was closed. And yet 700 people chose to ignore those signs and do as they pleased. Some may argue that “Hey, we’re a tourist town! Tourists are our livelihood” and under normal circumstances I would have to agree. But these are not normal circumstances. This crisis is far from being over. People are dying and no amount of money is worth somebodies life. Allowing hotels to open up now would be a huge mistake which we will all pay for in the end.
Thank you, Debra J Saude
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666675936125885201&simpl=msg-f%3A16666759361… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Regarding Reopening
Kristi Peter
Fwd: Regarding Reopening 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
------Forwarded message ------From: Don Andre
Hi Kaety,
Hope all is going well.
I have my Vacation Rental Hat on here. I am sure you are dialed into this but wanted to address a fairness concern. I have heard that there is a negative bias by some decision makers against VRDs in general as the opening up conversation has proceeded. I hope this is not the case.
I wanted to make sure as we look to open things up that VRDs are treated equally to other short term properties such as hotels and motels. There are a fair number of us who are putting together our protocols for how to ensure our own and our customers and ultimately our communities safety. There is a lot to unpack here to pull this opening off but wanted to share my desire to be taken seriously as our potential guests would certainly not be any more or less a threat than any other visitor.
Thank you.
No need to reply, I know you are slammed these days. Just providing input.
Best
Don A
Virus-free. www.avg.com
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
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Kristi Peter
Comment on renting occupancy change 1 message
Don Daniels <[email protected]> Wed, May 13, 2020 at 4:13 PM To: [email protected] Cc: Meredith Owner
Hi,
I just wanted to take time to leave a comment about limiting occupancy to six people.
I am certainly supportive of any actions to protect the public health, and I applaud your efforts to date, but I respectfully disagree with the new proposed limitation. Any renters would all be part of a family/friends unit, and I don’t think this increases risk. My unit is built for greater occupancy and will suffer harshly under such a restriction.
Thanks for your consideration.
Don Daniels 7101 NW Logan Road
Don Daniels WarRoom Ventures 22985 El Camino Real Santa Margarita, CA 93453 805-550-8912
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666618884089703121&simpl=msg-f%3A16666188840… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - The Opening of Hotels/Motels while closing of VRDs
Kristi Peter
The Opening of Hotels/Motels while closing of VRDs
Don Ollila
To whom it may concern with the City of Newport and Lincoln County-
I am part of a large group thread that seems to single out Doug Hunt for his lopsided view of VRDs vs Hotels/Motels. Though I don't agree with the tone of the message, I agree with the stance that to open up hotels/motels to tourists and not VRDs is rather irresponsible given the current COVID-19 concerns. Hotels/Motels have shared common areas where people are forced to be within 6 feet of strangers as well as sharing things such as door handles, buttons, railing and other items that are not cleaned off prior to the next person using them. Most entrance doors to a room are within 6 feet of each other by the design of these places using common walls and framing.
Most VRDs are like mine, a single family home that allows enough room for a single family to occupy the house, cook their own meals, take their pets, watch a TV, sleep in their beds, not feel cramped and in most cases not having to come anywhere near a stranger. The management company that cleans my home in fact spends 3 days after each visitor to clean the house as well as ensure there is no possible transmission of any germs between guests. The management company I use is a global organization that has been adopting these techniques in response to this pandemic.
I am not a large corporation like a Shilo or a Motel 6. I have lived 40 years of my life in Oregon, graduated high school in Hillsboro and completed my undergraduate and graduate studies at Oregon State. My wife was born in Oregon, graduated highschool at Sunset and completed her degree at Portland State University. We live in Lake Oswego and I work for an Oregon company. My family has always loved the Oregon Coast and we enjoy AirBnB/VRBO so we can take our own food, make our own breakfast and lunch and take our pets with us and not feel cramped. We purchased our beach house in Newport because we wanted to spend more time at the beach year round but we couldn't afford another house so we have a VRD to help offset the costs. We love our little house and constantly upgrade it and add family oriented items like Wii games, board games and movies so that others who stay there can enjoy it. This economic downturn has been rough on us as well as a number of other Oregonians and Americans. My wife was going to start a new job but that position disappeared due to the pandemic. Shutting down the VRDs, though we understood at the time, has impacted our budget greatly.
If you want to know what most VRD owners look like, it's our family. It's a single family wanting to share their property with others and contribute to the Newport economy by providing a safe comfortable home for tourists to use. And of course we pay our taxes, go shopping (when there is not a pandemic), eat out (when there is not a pandemic) and pick up trash off the beach when we are there...
Please take these points into consideration when you meet Thursday to discuss reopening plans. Please use your best logic based judgement and make the right decision. Thank you.
--
- Don Ollila
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permmsgid=msg-f%3A1666602182063670778&simpl=msg-f%3A16666021820… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - written testimony concerning lodging reopening
Kristi Peter
written testimony concerning lodging reopening 1 message
Don Williams
Commissioners, Mayors, council members
As you debate today about allowing private businesses to operate their rental housing facili es, I would ask that you each divulge from where you received your “science” informa on so that the public would be be er informed as to how you each came to your conclusions about allowing the public at large to resume ren ng rooms and houses in Lincoln County.
I believe that much of the scien fic data has unfortunately been poli cally twisted and manipulated to serve the desires of some with a larger non health related agenda.
As we look at the data from states and countries that did not par cipate in lock downs we see no percep ble rise in Covid 19 cases over those that did lock down their people and economies.
If we base our decisions on the devasta on visited upon New York City and New Jersey then we are doing ourselves an injus ce by ignoring the living standards of those areas with par cular a en on being paid to the subway system which has been proven to be the Aorta of their outbreak. Florida on the other hand while having a similar popula on of aged adults has seen almost no rise in covid deaths (in par cular because they chose to lock down senior centers to protect the residents versus shipping Covid pa ents into them as New York did). Florida in fact has seen a 14% decreased a er “opening” Their economy.
Oregon is s ll a suburban majority state. We don’t have the deadly mass transit of New York City, we s ll enjoy the safety and containment of single family dwelling units.
Writer Ma Ridley in the American Spectator has done an analysis of a study that ran in the Bri sh Spectator. . Here is what they have learned — and it was reported in the Bri sh Spectator.(summarized) “The virus actually spreads with difficulty outdoors. It spreads with difficulty among younger and under 65-age people, and it starts to die off when it cannot get at suscep ble hosts.” The second data point they discovered in their research: “The virus is predominantly a hospital/nursing home-acquired virus that rampages through elderly, sick pa ents who are bedridden or at least not ac ve.” Being in a house with one’s rela ves or close friends with whom one has not ceased associa ng with during this me is not going to endanger anyone. One ques on to ask is; “If staying in an motel is dangerous why hasn’t that danger materialized in apartment complexes throughout the state and na on?” Surely people pass by each other in apartment complexes. Laundry rooms must have stayed open as well as parking areas and management offices. The idea that germs will behave differently in Lincoln County hotels, motels and STRs is ludicrous. You have a heavy responsibility today. As a former mayor I too would take it seriously. But I would have to ask myself what my duty is. Am I trying to prevent mass death or am I trying to keep people from ge ng sick. The “science” clearly indicates with a 98.5% survival rate that Covid 19 is not a lethal threat to the majority of Americans any more than severe strains of flu have been in the past. Destroying our economy and the livelihood of so many is in your hands. We have all made valiant efforts to protect ourselves and others from this disease and we will con nue but driving so many into financial ruin will not help anyone. You will be in my prayers today.
Don Williams
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666687257518934658&simpl=msg-f%3A16666872575… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Concerned
Kristi Peter
Concerned 1 message
'Emma John' via BOC
Dear Local officials,
I am reaching out today to help provide you with a greater understanding of an industry I love so much. I have been working in the hospitality industry for almost 17 years. It has provided a means to a career, not just a job that I love. It has given me the ability to be the breadwinner in my family and allowed me the ability to help my disabled mother who now lives with us. With that said COVID19 has had devastating effects on my family's financial stability. My husband was laid off as he worked at one of the hotels/restaurants in town. This is very difficult for our family as he already has a disability and has found it difficult in the past to find a job here in the community we both love so much. As he has epilepsy so he cannot work just any job nor can he drive to get there. We have to coordinate everything with my work schedule. If guests are not allowed to come back to the community as they once we're able to I will most likely lose my job which is currently the ONLY source of income for our family. This means I will not be able to pay for food to feed my three-year-old. Nor have the ability to care and provide for my mother and husband.
Let's face the facts, our community was designed with tourists in mind as they have provided transit room taxes that pay for our hospitals, schools, roads, and help keep our local restaurants, bars, and shops open. In addition to the large spending most due while on vacation. Short term rentals are different in that most of the people who come to stay, do so because they are able to have a quiet relaxing safe environment where they do not have to enter act with others unless they choose to do so. They come to retreat and be with their families. They use the kitchen and plan on cooking most of their meals at the home and have very little impact compared to those who stay at a hotel where they have to go out to eat or have to leave because their room is too small to stay in all day. If we truly want our local economy to make it so that your grandchildren or grown children have a town to call home we must allow guests back. But let's do it safely by keep hotels closed. Allowing guests to come to a whole home, with all of their family. Where they can truly self- isolate, enjoy a change of scenery. To help ease their minds in a time of uncertainty. For most people coming here might be their ONLY vacation all year and the reason that they've worked hard for and looked forward too.
I also think that you might not realize by limiting the number of guests who are allowed to come in one home is limiting the ability for most to even come to the coast. Families come here to spend time together to relive old trips they might have had with grandparents. As most rent homes with their grown children to spend time with their grandchildren they might not otherwise get to see nearly as much when they come to visit. Lots of people have more than just one or two children. I have a friend who has six children. So she and her family would never be able to come to the Oregon coast as a family. I also have a cousin who has a young child who is slowly going blind who could never see the ocean before his sight goes away because they have too many people in their family. I feel you should really take the Constitution into consideration before you decide what is best for our community. Let's face it you are not taking that into account with your list of recommendations. They seem bias towards hotels.
I urge you to think about what is BEST for everyone not what is best for a few. Our town was made and has grown to support the tourist industry. Now is not the time to turn our back on those who helped make this community possible. Let's support one another by showing support for those people who helped shape our beloved town by allowing them back safely. Now is the time to set aside personal interest and show what support truly means. Kind Regards, Emma Sent from my iPhone
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Kristi Peter
Re: Lincoln County reopening 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
Hi Eric,
Thank you for the comments, I have copied people on this who can add them to the public record. Our joint meeting with cities to discuss lodging is today at 3pm and can be watched from the City of Newport page.
Kaety
On Tue, May 12, 2020 at 8:52 AM Eric Breon
The reopening of Lincoln County is a challenging topic, and no matter what you decide there will be those that disagree. These decisions aren’t easy, and I thank you for your service in these difficult times.
While not a resident of Lincoln County, I have strong ties to the area. Until recently, I was CEO of Vacasa, which - when operational - has several hundred employees within the county. I also personally own Ocean Cove Inn in Yachats, Cape Cod Cottages in Waldport, and a home in Depoe Bay, and spend a bit of time within the County.
My wife, Alia, is an Emergency Medicine Physician, and has helped lead the response at her hospital (Peace Health, in Vancouver, WA). The appropriate response to the COVID 19 is something we spend a great deal of time on.
As you consider the plans for reopening the county, it’s important to consider the risks, and benefits, of different options. I realize a broad desire to generally reduce the amount of visitors to Lincoln County, but there are many ways to accomplish this, with different impacts.
For most businesses, the reduction in revenue associated with a closure is partially offset by a reduction in expense: a store doesn’t consume any inventory while shut down, and a restaurant doesn’t consume food nor liquor while closed.
This isn’t the case for lodging businesses. Outside of local employment, the bulk of their non-labor expenses are fixed. Amounts spent on debt service and property tax are far higher as a percentage of revenue for lodging businesses, and these expenses continue whether or not the business is operational.
As you consider which lodging options to reopen, please consider the following:
Can face to face contact be avoided? The traditional in-person check-in common to most hotels is not appropriate in times like these. Instead, can “after hours” check-in procedures be utilized, where payment has already been taken care of, and the guest simply grabs an envelope or similar with their key cards?
Can common areas be avoided? Areas like lobbies, hallways, and elevators increase the risk of local employees coming into close contact with tourists. Unlike hotels, motel properties and (non-condo) transient rentals avoid this risk.
Are kitchen facilities be provided? While there are some take-out options for dining, kitchen facilities are beneficial as they allow tourists to spend more of their time within the home.
As long as proper protections are taken, there is no risk in cleaning a house or hotel room following a guest stay. The first precaution is that the space should sit empty for short period of time. This need not be long; a period of 30 to 60 minutes is what’s typically used in hospitals, for anything airborne to settle. Following that, it’s important that hard surfaces likely to be touched are thoroughly sanitized: things like doorknobs, handles, and faucets.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666684013598412962&simpl=msg-f%3A16666840135… 1/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Re: Lincoln County reopening Amongst businesses that benefit from tourism, lodging is relatively unique in that it provides employment from tourism without requiring local residents to come in contact with tourists. Transient rentals are the perfect example on this front: in most cases, the guest is able to let themselves into the home, and need not come in contact with any local residents. At the same time, substantial employment is generated, as it can take five hours or more to clean that home after the guests have departed. That’s five hours of local employment, with zero risk of transmission.
Travel can be done responsibly. As an example, we recently spent the weekend in Sunriver, OR. We were able to recreate outside without coming near anyone outside of our household. While our spending in the area was reduced from what we normally would have spent, we were still able to enjoy a local restaurant: Sunriver Brewing had an option to order online & pick up the food from a table outside of the restaurant. We didn’t even see anyone when we pick up our food - we just walked up to a table outside, grabbed the bag with our name on it, and took it back to our house to eat.
Thank you for your consideration on this topic, and please let me know if there’s any way I can be of assistance.
Thanks, Eric Breon
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
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Kristi Peter
(no subject) 1 message
Fernanda Morales
I work as a member of the local lodging economy. My job relies on properties to be rented, which in turn allows me to provide food for my family. These last two months have been so challenging. Please help open up vacation rentals. They provide social distancing to all guest and neighbors, more so than any hotel can offer. Please do NOT limit occupancy at 6. My ability to stay working and living on the coast depends on it.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666626884739967211&simpl=msg-f%3A16666268847… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Concerned Lincoln City Home owner regarding proposed limit on occupancy at short term rentals to six (6) person…
Kristi Peter
Concerned Lincoln City Home owner regarding proposed limit on occupancy at short term rentals to six (6) persons per property 1 message
Hank Caputo
Dear Mayor Anderson, Mayor Gambino, Mayor Woodruff, Mayor Sawyer, Mayor Cross, Mayor Moore, Mayor Worman, Commissioner Hunt, Commissioner Hall, Commissioner Jacobson, City Manager Chandler, City Manager Cutter, City Manager Nebel, City Manager Richter, City Manager Beaucaire, City Superintendent Weidner, County Counsel Belmont, & Distinguished Members of the Lincoln CountyCity Council
This letter is to address our Short-Term Vacation Rental in Lincoln County, which has been negatively impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lincoln County has submitted a 3 Phase plan which consists of a framework to reopen Short-Term Vacation Rentals, Hotels/Motels, RV Parks, and Campgrounds. One of the recommendations being made in opening Phase 1 for Short Term Rentals has the “Recommendation of Limiting Occupancy to a max of 6(must be related) persons no matter what the license provides”. We ask that you strongly reconsider this reduction in occupancy and abide by what home permits allow.
Access to our vacation rental property is provided to guests in advance which allows for zero human interaction. How is limiting the occupancy to 6 occupants safer than what the licensed VRD allows? If guests are checking into our home, and not coming into contact with any other individuals, there is no additional risk by allowing more than 6 people to rent our home. A family of four with 2 spouses and 4 grandkids is not an uncommon guest in our home. To limit this to 6 would unfairly discriminate against these families.
We are concerned by the recommendation that that all occupants must be related. What about those who live with friends/roommates/domestic partners? How is a family that lives in 2 different cities staying in a vacation rental safer than a group of individuals not related that live in one residence? How can you place restrictions on occupants being related staying in a vacation rental, but have NO suggested restrictions on patrons that will dine at restaurants when they open that they are related? We respectfully ask that all Mayors, County Commissioners, City Managers, and elected County Officials reconsider the recommendations that would restrict Vacation Rentals to 6 (related) occupants.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666639041283041275&simpl=msg-f%3A16666390412… 1/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Concerned Lincoln City Home owner regarding proposed limit on occupancy at short term rentals to six (6) person… We are under significant economic strain and are facing the very real fear of losing our vacation home due to the effects this pandemic has created. Our livelihood depends on opening up our vacation rental on June 1 or sooner. We ALL want the same result, to open our coastline back up to visitors and tourists while keeping ourselves, our friends, and loved ones safe.
It is imperative for the survival of our business, that we allow visitors to the Oregon Coast again with no restriction on occupancy.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Henry and Patricia Caputo Owners of Latitude Adjustment Vacation Home under management by Meredith Lodging
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Kristi Peter
Fwd: not yet 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
------Forwarded message ------From:
To the leaders of our community, Opening short term rentals of any kind, whether it be hotels, motels or vrds, seems very short sighted. The numbers of covid 19 cases in Oregon are increasing. In some counties they are doubling. Our county has been successful at keeping this virus at bay. This has perhaps given some people a false sense of security. All of the leading experts in the field agree that opening up too soon will have dire consequences and waste the 2 1/2 months that we have put in already. Our numbers of covid 19 cases will balloon if people from outside are let into our county before control has been obtained over this scourge. Our front liners will be contracting covid 19 and unwittingly pass it along to other residents of Lincoln County. We have given up so much already. Please don't sacrifice our efforts for immediate gratification that will turn into a bigger problem a few weeks down the road. Our resources will be depleted and our health workers will be making decisions of who lives and who dies. Remember at the beginning of this pandemic when this was a concern: A burden that we did not want to put on health care workers? I know the rental owners are screaming the loudest, but that doesn't make them correct. If we open rentals too soon it will cause us to have to shut down again later in the summer and for a longer period of time. This will end up costing the rental owners and our economy even more. We don't have to learn every lesson the hard way. We elected you to lead, which sometimes means making the hard and unpopular decisions. Don't base your decision on what you want to be true. The facts are right in front of you. Thank you, Heather Haugland
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
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Commissioners and Council Members:
Your consideration of reopening Newport and Lincoln County will dramatically increase risks for many residents, especially those who work in the tourist industry. But all residents will be at greater risk than currently. Please note the demographics for those most at risk. It’s anyone over 50. Are you aware of the age demographics of this county? It is also being observed that children are more vulnerable than first thought. It also puts our health care workers at greater risk and could quickly overwhelm our resources. You can say it won’t happen, but evidence is starting to show increases in infections in those locales that have reopened. I hope you are able to accept the science that accompanies this pandemic. Citizens have shown clearly that they do not honor spacing, masks or small grouping in areas that have reopened. This, too, is well documented. Did you see the photos and articles about people on newly opened beaches and their failure to space? Will you ignore this data?
I believe that the decision to reopen must be made based on knowledge not gut feelings or emotion. I have two degrees in biology. I taught biology for 30 years. I have continually studied infectious diseases, viral genetics, viral evolution and pandemics. This doesn’t make me an expert, but it certainly allows me to make or understand the science based decisions in the face of discovery. Observing the government making decisions regarding scientific matters over the years does not inspire my trust or confidence. Most are not trained beyond high school biology….how many years ago? There is just too much emotion, too many people barking in their ears along with the indispensable inclusion of money fears. Yes, this is a very tough time. We have been very lucky not to have had more cases of Covid19. But look what it took to do that….closure and stay home policies.
The current metrics for Lincoln County look good. But let us all remember that those metrics are based on the current residents of the county, a closed county. This is only representative of a community that has been closed to outsiders. Those metrics are most likely not accurate for tourists who come from many other areas of the country, some with substantially different metrics, more dangerous metrics. So if you base your decisions on current county metrics you have bought into one of the most common failures of decision makers….not viewing ALL the data which will impact this county when you open the doors. Data from all of Oregon, Washington, California and Idaho will impact this community.
If you open this county and other communities prematurely, the new damage to residents will lie at your feet. We are nowhere near the testing and contact tracing capacity that must be present to make informed decisions. How many lives are you willing to risk with this gamble? I recognize that you never expected to be placed in this life and death decision making position when you became a commissioner or councilor, but here you are. I have to live with your decision. Fairness for all does not reign in a pandemic. Sacrifice is very hard to accept but lives are at stake here.
My immediate concern (though not my only concern) is with VRDs that continue to operate and those that would reopen with your approval. Your plan has many deficiencies in protecting the community. Your first assumption that tourists will follow rules is totally inadequate and ill informed. You’re betting on the best possible outcome occurring with human behavior. Dreams. By the way, how many tourist are you expecting?
Enforcement will be important if you open the county. There still is no weekend enforcement for VRDs, even though the Newport City Council verbally assured residents they understood the need for enforcement. The City has also said that weekend enforcement was needed and action would be taken to mitigate this problem. These promises were made months ago, and there is little evidence that weekend enforcement has been put in place. Good intentions alone are meaningless. You are considering reopening when we can’t even deal effectively with current violations. The current regulations on VRDs allow owners to occupy their VRDs. Most VRD owners do not live here or even in the county. Those owners may invite guests from anywhere. The owners may invite friends to violate Oregon’s ‘Stay at Home’ order. Clearly this possibility escaped the rule makers of current county regulations. Those who make decisions for the county must write rules that take into account the human tendency to get around them or cavalierly ignore them. The rules must be without loopholes in order to protect the community.
Many VRDs are located in residential areas not commercial areas. In your plan there will be no testing in place to assure residents that VRD occupants are uninfected or have been staying home. How does remote registration protect the community? We take their word that they are uninfected? Really. How many fingers have you crossed? I can choose not to go to an open restaurant or not to hang out at a resort bar or avoid the beach. I cannot avoid these visitors that move in next door. Or those that choose not to follow clear guidelines for protecting others. The plans laid out for cleaning these VRDs after occupancy are insufficient as well. It is unlikely that cleaning services will be able to clean these VRDs appropriately. Please note that proper cleaning is very different now. This virus lives for several days on most surfaces. UVC and nanotechnology can help in cleaning, but will it be required? Quite an investment is necessary.
I know that science and facts are really inconvenient for some people. Let’s hope that none of you fall into that trap. Science still knows volumes more than the collective you. Opening this area will need to occur at some point. Jumping the gun means some of your constituents may die. Go ahead and grow the economy. Just realize that you will probably be growing cemeteries as well. Why not wait until better testing and tracing is available. We do not have this virus corralled. Our collective professional experts are expecting increases in infection with openings, and they say we just don’t know enough to make some decisions safely at this time. Many experts are already expecting a second wave of infections irrespective of reopening. And to those of you that believe in herd immunity, start reading up on that topic. Not just Dr. Katz’s incomplete proposal. We will need to infect more than 60 % of the population. We are more than 330 million people. Do the math with a 1%, 2% and 3% death rate. Do your homework please.
The best possible decision at this time is to continue to delay reopening until there is enough science-based data to support it, along with having testing and contact tracing in place. Small mistakes here cost lives. Big mistakes mean more lost lives. As I said earlier, betting on the best possible outcome while relying on human behavior is simply naive. We must have better when lives are at stake.
James Hanselman Newport
P.S. Have you noticed that the White House can’t even stop the virus from entering? Do we have White House sized resources? Just saying. 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Reopening of Lodging in LC
Kristi Peter
Reopening of Lodging in LC 1 message
'Jeanne Bower' via BOC
Dear Councilperson,
I think it is unwise to open short-term rentals on June 1. As the primary areas where people will be might be coming from have not been contained. It is inevitable that undetected cases will come into and infect our service sector. We will then have have a spike of cases in our county which put infrastructure won’t be able to handle. I feel strongly that we need to wait until Salem, Portland and California start decreasing, in their cases, for a period of time that is consistent with “flattening the curve”.
The other reason is that we are just beginning to re-open some of our businesses in two days. We need to see what effect that will have on the community. It could be deleterious if we combine an increase in cases from that at the same time people start coming in from other areas.
I understand this is a tremendous economic hardship, and believe that re-opening on June 1st is premature.
Thank you,
Jeanne Spagnoli-Bower Toledo Oregon
Sent from my iPhone
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Kristi Peter
Vacation rental reopening. 1 message
'John Cochran' via BOC
I am retired and have been relying in large part on rental income to help me with the expenses I have on a monthly basis and from open heart surgery a few months ago. The suspension of vacation rental income has made it much more difficult for me. It seems to me that it is much less a health hazard having a family rent a house than to have hotel with many rooms that are wall to wall in one location. Also a family renting is more apt to eat in instead of going out. Please consider reopening vacation rentals on the 15th. John W Cochran 10536 NW Pacific Cost Hwy Seal Rock, OR
Sent from my iPhone
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Kristi Peter
Recommendation for Limiting Short Term Occupancy to 6 Persons 1 message
John Moore
To: Lincoln County City Counsel and related Digataries
Fr: John Moore
Re: Proposed Decision to Limit Occupancy of Vaca on Rentals
Dear Sir or Madams:
I have a Vaca on Rental property on Ebb Street in Lincoln City, which has operated as a vaca on rental since it was built in 2005. It is a 4,000 sf home, with licensed occupancy up to 16 persons. It is managed by Meredith Lodging, who has advised me of your considera on today of a rule limi ng occupancy to 6 persons, regardless of my licensure with the City. While we ae in a me of serious health concerns for our na on and communi es, and for which, thankfully, the results have been less than originally projected – more akin to the annual flu seasons we experience – even so, I am opposed to this provision and would ask you to reconsider and reject this provision for the following reasons:
1. Decisions Contrary to the Cons tu on. As you may be aware, the Bill of Rights addresses a range of rights for us as American ci zens, from travel, to worship, to congrega ng, to gathering in a range of situa ons. Neither the president, elected officials, the governors, or local officials have the authority to override these rights. As you likely know, there are two lawsuits currently filed in federal court against Governor Brown in this regard, seeking injunc ve relief which would deny the Phased in restric ons currently recommended by her office. But moreso, and as you see all across our country, people are desperate, they need to open back up their businesses, and they are applying varies levels of civil disobedience, for which the related Supreme Courts of various states are finding and ruling in their favor, and against the restric ons from the offices of the governors and local officials. For these reasons, I believe any ac on which limits the occupancy of these vaca on rentals would be contrary to our cons tu on and its deriva ve rights.
2. Decisions Detrimental to Financial Considera ons. As is well ar culated in the Meredith Lodging objec ons below, there are dozens of businesses and hundreds of jobs at stake with this ruling. Not only do we, as property owners, have con nuing financial obliga ons for our proper es which con nue unabated, and which would be damaged by an inability to provide occupancy consistent with our licenses, we have management and retail and holiday and vaca on businesses which would be substan ally harmed by this provision limi ng occupancy to 6 persons.
3. Decisions in Viola on of Contracts.. A whole range of business investments and decisions are made in the Lincoln City community, based on and relying on contracts between the City and property owners. As property https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666686870053718565&simpl=msg-f%3A16666868700… 1/5 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Recommendation for Limiting Short Term Occupancy to 6 Persons owners, we have invested in and relied on both state and local municipal promises by way of contract. Any decision to further limit occupancy on a basis other than licensure is a breach of your contractual promise to us, and I believe is ac onable.
4. Decisions without a Logical Basis. Again, as Meredith Lodging notes, these same restric ons are not proposed for hotels or restaurants. My tenants in my vaca on rental have their own separate duty to maintain health distances and standards to safeguard each occupant. For Lincoln County to try to arbitrarily reach into one type of business in housing in our city without consistent restric ons across the tourist and retail businesses is without logic and, I believe, will be ill-fated in Lincoln City.
Some of you may remember Tom McCall, Oregon’s governor from 1966 to and through 1974. While Governor McCall was remembered for many good things, including urban growth boundaries, which have allowed for measured growth in our state. But he is also unfortunately remembered for a notable comment in 1971, in a CBS interview, where he stated:
Come visit us again and again. This is a state of excitement. But for heaven's sake, don't come here to live
As it turns out, this was his unfortunate legacy and painted and branded our state as an -growth and an -tourism for many years to come, to the financial detriment of various communi es in our state, including the Oregon coast. My concern is that your decision to limit occpancy more than the vaca on rental licenses will similarly be looked back on as an unfortunate and backward, if not illegal, step in the growth and a rac on of our state and coast, which I consider second to none world wide. I would request the rejec on of this limited proposal.
I am happy to speak to these issues further telephonically if your city council would so desire.
Respectuflly,
John C. Moore
Moore Law Group P.C.
4248 Galewood Street
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Voice 503.675.4300
Fax 503.675.4301
Web: www.moorelawgrouppc.com
Email: [email protected]
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From: Owner Success Team [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, May 13, 2020 2:55 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Calling All Homeowners – Make Your Voice Heard NOW!
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Meredith Lodging
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May 13, 2020
Dear Homeowner,
Our entire team continues to be actively involved in advocating for our homeowners and today we ne Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and the Mayors, City Councils and City Managers of Lincoln https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666686870053718565&simpl=msg-f%3A16666868700… 3/5 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Recommendation for Limiting Short Term Occupancy to 6 Persons Newport, Waldport, Yachats, Toledo and Siletz meet tomorrow, May 14th at 3:00PM, to finalize a lod that is deeply concerning. The proposed reopening plan includes a limit on occupancy at short te persons per property regardless of what your license allows. Here is a link to the reopening plan and the letter we have submitted to Lincoln County et al. We strongly urge you to make your voice heard b comment before 1:00PM tomorrow explaining to Lincoln County and cities how this restriction would comment may be sent to [email protected]. All other City contact names and emails are included a Below is a link to meeting details including the meeting access link, agenda and more.
Lincoln County – Joint Meeting
Thank you for your continued support and partnership.
Regards,
Owner Success Team
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Meredith Lodging 2015 NW 39th St.
Suite 100
Lincoln City, OR 97367 [email protected]
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Kristi Peter
Re: Covid19 & Short term rentals 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
Hi John,
Thank you for the comments. I have copied folks on this that can add them to the public record. Our joint meeting with cities to discuss lodging is today at 3pm and you can watch from the City of Newport page.
Kaety
On Mon, May 11, 2020 at 8:15 PM John Starkey
First, will there be a distinction between "hotels" (with overnight style rooms) and resorts like us that offer fully self- contained units (with full kitchens)? How are lodging facilities going to be sub-classified.
Finally, we are looking forward to getting back open again, but are very concerned that the public will not fully hear or understand the restrictions and that our local services will be a breeding ground for a surge in Covid infections.
Thank you for working so hard to keep Lincoln County safe.
John & Lyndsey Starkey Managers Wayside Oceanfront Lodge 5773 Highway 101 N. Yachats, OR. 97498 541-547-3450
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
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Kristi Peter
Proposed Vacation Rental Dwelling restrictions 1 message
Jon Chandler
Dear Commissioners: my wife and I own a three bedroom house in Lincoln City that we have used as a VRD for nearly 15 years, which has not only helped us pay the mortgage on our property but also brought a fair amount of business to the city. We are currently approved to have up to eight people staying at our house, so would be negatively affected by the proposal being considered.
I appreciate the difficult task that you have as elected officials, attempting to find a balance between public health and the health of the local economy. With respect, I believe that the proposal on your agenda misses the mark.
For one thing, there is no evidence of which I’m aware that would indicate that the current occupancy limits pose any threat to the public health, or which would support the setting of limits without regard to the size of the house.
For another, limiting the stays to related individuals is problematic on a variety of levels, and would potentially put property owners and property managers in the position of asking questions about familial status that are inappropriate at best and discriminatory at worst.
For yet another, I think that it would be far easier to maintain social distance (and to limit interactions with full-time coastal residents) in a VRD than in a hotel or motel. In most VRDs, people can check in and check out without having to interact with anyone, thereby eliminating any possible threat of infection. Also, the very nature of a VRD house vs a hotel makes it easy to only interact with one’s traveling companions as opposed to total strangers in the hallway or elevators or lobby. Finally, people staying in VRDs are more likely to cook in than to eat out, thereby eliminating or limiting another possible area of concern.
Please take the time to reconsider this proposed ordinance, and instruct your staff to bring you back one that strikes a better and more logical balance in addressing this important issue.
Thank you for your consideration.
Jon Chandler 503-602-8945
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666621707263692928&simpl=msg-f%3A16666217072… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Please do not Change VRD Occupancy Requirements
Kristi Peter
Please do not Change VRD Occupancy Requirements 2 messages
Kari Kellow
Dear Lincoln County Commissioners,
I work for a local vaca on rental company and live in the area. These past two months I have watched as my co- workers and their families, as well as my friends who own local business suffer due to the loss of business from COVID-19. It has been a challenging me for many, including me and my family. I know that many of us are not just hoping but truly relying on things to get be er soon.
I just heard that there is a possibility of se ng the maximum occupancy for the county per vaca on home to 6 regardless of a home’s size. This change would significantly impact the income that vaca on rental business brings and therefore would effect my co-workers and their families, and the homeowners I work with who have also greatly suffered from the recent loss of income. Our vaca on homes are following cleaning procedures above CDC standards, and they provide social distancing as they are located independently.
I’m asking that we please do not make things harder than they have already been on so many of us locals, and on the people who have invested in our local economy, and that we please work with the already established occupancy licensing requirements.
Thank you,
Kari
Kaety Jacobson
Hi Kari,
Thank you for the comments. They will be put on our public record. Our joint meetings with cities is today at 3pm and can be watched from the city of Newport page.
Kaety [Quoted text hidden] -- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
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Kristi Peter
Input for Special Session on 5-14-2020 2 messages
'Katherine Aukstikalnis' via BOC
Hello,
I'm writing to express my support to let Order 3-23-85 Prohibition of Short Term Rentals less than 30 days expire on May 31st. My husband and I own a small motel (19 rooms) located outside of the city limits in Yachats. The shutdown of our business has been devastating for both us and our employees. We have many bills (Mortgage, Insurance, Property Taxes, contracted utilities, contracted rentals etc) that continue despite being closed for business. Despite our small size, we have kept a full time employee, in addition to my husband and I. This has allowed us to keep health insurance going for both his household and our own. If we continue to be shut-down we will not be able to justify keeping this employee and both households will lose their health insurance. The rest of our staff is also eager to come back to work.
We've been keeping appraised of the various drafts for the Draft Reopening Framework for motels. We are ready to open and operate in full compliance (and then some!). In this instance our small size works well for us because we are able to be super responsive and flexible. We are completely committed to the safety of our employees and guests as well as the safety of our community. We would be happy to support a "locals only" schedule for necessary buildings such as the grocery stores. We will definitely encourage all of our guests to wear face masks in all pubic spaces and maintain social distancing.
Please let the order expire on May 31st. Please don't push this out even a day longer. Like so many businesses on the coast, we rely on income from the summer months to make our business profitable and keep our doors open. The curve has been flattened and as you know the hospitals are not overwhelmed. If Order 3-23-85 is not allowed to expire businesses will surely close forever, unemployment will continue to soar and the county will loose vital revenue. It is possible to open up and keep the community safe at the same time.
Sincerely, Katherine Autkstikalnis Deane's Oceanfront Lodge 541-547-3321
Kaety Jacobson
[Quoted text hidden] -- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666624009964421075&simpl=msg-f%3A16666240099… 1/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - VRD occupancy for reopening
Kristi Peter
VRD occupancy for reopening 2 messages
Kathleen Keranen
Dear City Management, We so appreciate your time and effort evaluating the risks for Lincoln City due to COVID-19. While we appreciate the initial efforts in securing sufficient medical care in case of an outbreak and also limiting the severity of an outbreak, I have deep concerns for the overall health of your community as a taxpayer and as someone dependent on VRD income.
COVID19 data has demonstrated to all of us to have a severe impact on a very small minority of people with pre-existing conditions. The economic impact which will inevitably lead to severe health impacts and an impact on our healthcare system will affect literally ALL of us. I am sure your city budget is severely impacted, which will lead to a loss of employment for many which also means a loss of health insurance for those people. It also impacts the amount of funds available for local hospitals to treat your residents. This is very concerning and with the length of this crisis, will only continue to worsen. The stress and health implications of your residents will have long-term critical impact on your community.
The understanding of a lockdown and restriction of movement in the beginning was for the healthcare system to not be overrun and to give them time to prepare. Overall, the number of hospitalizations due to COVID19 have plummeted, with an obvious trend of more patients leaving the hospital than those who are being admitted. As of yesterday, Lincoln County as a whole only has had 6 confirmed cases! Lincoln County's press release on May 6th stated that you are also fully capable to test and trace per the guidelines given by Governor Brown. Yet, you continue to limit the very sources of income needed in this small town, affecting the livelihood of the majority of your residents. Your tents set up at urgent care clinics remain empty, hospital beds remain empty and I am expecting that hospitals will need to (if they have not already) lay off medical personnel due to insufficient budgets.
While I appreciate your desire to ensure safety in these coming months, I have concerns over your limitation to 6 occupants in VRDs, even for larger homes which have been legally permitted for larger occupancy. I am unsure as to how this limitation is even helpful in curbing the spread of this virus. Many family units are larger than 6, so you have automatically excluded them from staying in homes by this number. What scientific evidence do you have to support such a limitation?
Please reconsider this limitation of 6 people per VRD.
Thank you,
-- Kathleen Keranen Homeowner and taxpayer
Kaety Jacobson
------Forwarded message ------From: Kathleen Keranen
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666622162498197050&simpl=msg-f%3A16666221624… 1/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - VRD occupancy for reopening
Dear City and County officials, We so appreciate your time and effort evaluating the risks for Lincoln City and Lincoln County due to COVID-19. While we appreciate the initial efforts in securing sufficient medical care in case of an outbreak and also limiting the severity of an outbreak, I have deep concerns for the overall health of your community as a taxpayer and as someone dependent on VRD income.
COVID19 data has demonstrated to all of us to have a severe impact on a very small minority of people with pre-existing conditions. The economic impact which will inevitably lead to severe health impacts and an impact on our healthcare system will affect literally ALL of us. I am sure your city budget is severely impacted, which will lead to a loss of employment for many which also means a loss of health insurance for those people. It also impacts the amount of funds available for local hospitals to treat your residents. This is very concerning and with the length of this crisis, will only continue to worsen. The stress and health implications of your residents will have long-term critical impact on your community.
The understanding of a lockdown and restriction of movement in the beginning was for the healthcare system to not be overrun and to give them time to prepare. Overall, the number of hospitalizations due to COVID19 have plummeted, with an obvious trend of more patients leaving the hospital than those who are being admitted. As of yesterday, Lincoln County as a whole only had 6 confirmed cases! Lincoln County's press release on May 1st stated that you are also fully capable to test and trace per the guidelines given by Governor Brown. Yet, you continue to limit the very sources of income needed in this small town, affecting the livelihood of the majority of your residents. Your tents set up at urgent care clinics remain empty, hospital beds remain empty and I am expecting that hospitals will need to (if they have not already) lay off medical personnel due to insufficient budgets.
While I appreciate your desire to ensure safety in these coming months, I have concerns over your limitation to 6 occupants in VRDs, even for larger homes which have been legally permitted for larger occupancy. I am unsure as to how this limitation is even helpful in curbing the spread of this virus. Many family units are larger than 6, so you have automatically excluded them from staying in homes by this number. What scientific evidence do you have to support such a limitation? What is better in limiting to 6 people than having people stay in hotel buildings with many more people coming in contact with one another? Could it possibly be safer for people to stay in isolated homes with literally no contact with staff or cleaning personnel? Could it be possible that limitations in restaurants and stores with strict social distancing and mask wearing are more effective than limiting VRDs, where people are not in contact with others?
Please ask yourselves and your colleagues these very questions before determining your policies. Please reconsider this limitation of 6 people per VRD to help your community get back on their feet in this devastating time. [Quoted text hidden]
-- Katie Keranen Africa Area Administrator Free Methodist Church USA
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666622162498197050&simpl=msg-f%3A16666221624… 2/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Vacation rental owner
Kristi Peter
Vacation rental owner 1 message
Kathy Wheeler
I own a home in Bella Beach, Depoe Bay, which is managed by Meredith Lodging. I protest limiting guests to 6 and only family groups. That would drastically cut into our rentals. I believe the cleaning procedures and safety guidelines are enough. Lincoln County needs the revenue!
Sent from Outlook Mobile
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Kristi Peter
Rentals 1 message
Kelly G
Hi all, If I had a rental, I would want to open. However, I am afraid for Yachats to have full opening. Only two stores are operational and few restaurants. ALL my neighbors are elderly. I go Costco and Fred Myer for all. I urge you to REQURIE masks and gloves. These tourists do not care. Please help.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666638290178468625&simpl=msg-f%3A16666382901… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Open Lincoln County Vacation Rentals
Kristi Peter
Open Lincoln County Vacation Rentals
Kelly Newcombe
To Whom it May Concern;
The Oregon Coast is a sought a er des na on because of it's amazing beaches and natural beauty. Overnight lodging is a crucial part of the business economy on the Oregon coast. It contributes tremendously to all of the small businesses, local restaurants and shops and directly affects the livelihoods of thousands of local residents.
Local small businesses are suffering greatly, and this includes the hundreds of staff working for our lodging company. Tourism has been at a stands ll for 2 months and the booking pace minimal. Businesses, families and individuals are all greatly affected by the contribu ons of tourism in the area. Vaca on rentals provide social distancing – with self check-in. We have taken great steps in addi onal training in our cleaning protocols as well as proper PPE. We ask that you please work with the already established occupancy licensing requirements within the county so that we can help in jump star ng the economy.
Kind Regards, Kelly Newcombe
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permmsgid=msg-f%3A1666602540904496123&simpl=msg-f%3A16666025409… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Humanitarian crisis -open Lincoln County today
Kristi Peter
Fwd: Humanitarian crisis -open Lincoln County today 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
------Forwarded message ------From: Kenneth R. Rowlett
Dear Ms Jacobson ,Mr Hunt, Ms Hall , Mr Chandler 380,000 jobless claims since March . 50,000 claims have not been processed by State Employment division Thousands have no job and no jobless benefits. None . It gets worse with each passing moment . Open Lincoln County immediately please .
This Humanitarian crisis needs to be fixed today .Open Lincoln county now . Oregon House majority leader calls for ‘bold action’ on jobless claims backlog Updated 1:06 PM; Today 1:05 PM
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666676472896673385&simpl=msg-f%3A16666764728… 1/8 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Humanitarian crisis -open Lincoln County today
A tour group looks down from a viewing spot beneath the Oregon Pioneer statue on the State Capitol in Salem on May 14, 2015. Randy L. Rasmussen/Staff LC- The Oregonian LC- The Oregonian
By Mike Rogoway | The Oregonian/OregonLive
Oregon House majority leader Barbara Smith Warner said Wednesday that the state needs to take immediate action to resolve its long backlog of unpaid jobless claims.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666676472896673385&simpl=msg-f%3A16666764728… 2/8 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Humanitarian crisis -open Lincoln County today “Oregonians are struggling – they need action and they need it now,” Smith Warner, D- Portland, said in a statement Wednesday. She called on “bold action” to resolve the crisis.
While a number of other legislators have also highlighted the issues at the Oregon Employment Department, Smith Warner’s statement is among the most forceful and urgent to date.
The employment department has been overwhelmed by the coronavirus outbreak, fielding more than 380,000 jobless claims since the beginning of March. More than 50,000 https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666676472896673385&simpl=msg-f%3A16666764728… 3/8 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Humanitarian crisis -open Lincoln County today claims remain unprocessed, including thousands dating back to March.
That means huge numbers of Oregonians have been going without benefits during the economic catastrophe triggered by the coronavirus.
As The Oregonian/OregonLive has reported, the employment department relies on obsolete computers to process jobless claims. That has triggered a succession of mistakes in processing claims and delayed the state’s efforts to adapt its system to recent changes that made more workers eligible for benefits.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666676472896673385&simpl=msg-f%3A16666764728… 4/8 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Humanitarian crisis -open Lincoln County today The employment department’s phone lines are hopelessly jammed, meaning it’s nearly impossible for laid-off workers to get through to address the department’s mistakes and receive their benefits. Those that do get through spend an average of two hours on hold – and most of those calls are never answered.
“For far too many Oregonians, the wait for unemployment checks and the economic upheaval that comes with that has gone on for too long,” Smith Warner said Wednesday. “We are hearing each day from our neighbors who are fed up and scared about the road forward.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666676472896673385&simpl=msg-f%3A16666764728… 5/8 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Humanitarian crisis -open Lincoln County today They have spent countless hours waiting on the phone and sending emails, and despite having filed a claim months ago, have not received the payments they are due. It is beyond time for these claims to be met with action.”
In her statement, Smith Warner suggested allowing more employment department staff to work remotely and recalling retired staff to process complicated claims. She also called for more “transparency and proactive communications to filers and the public.”
The employment department did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Smith Warner’s statement. For several weeks, department director Kay Erickson has refused requests for an interview on the crisis.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666676472896673385&simpl=msg-f%3A16666764728… 6/8 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Humanitarian crisis -open Lincoln County today
Gov. Kate Brown apologized last month for the long delays in paying jobless claims. Her office did not immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday.
-- Mike Rogoway | [email protected] | twitter: @rogoway |
Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newslette rs and podcasts for the latest news and top stories.
On May 13, 2020, at 11:29 AM, Kenneth R. Rowlett
Dear Ms Jacobson Please advocate for immediate opening of our county. Not eating for 2 more weeks may be fatal for many both literally and figuratively . We’ve had no income since March. Thank you for your assistance and understanding .
We are perfectly happy to implement questionnaires and advocate publicly wearing a mask to re open immediately Questionnaire & procedures : 1.have you traveled outside the country in the last month 2. Have you had a cough recently 3.have you had a fever recently https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666676472896673385&simpl=msg-f%3A16666764728… 7/8 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Humanitarian crisis -open Lincoln County today 4 have you been exposed to anyone with covid 5. Must wear a mask for your and my protection . These same questions are asked by major dental clinics and hospitals before receiving treatment statewide .Many have gone back to work as of May 7,2020.
Kenneth Rowlett Franklin Rowlett 503-539-6059 c
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666676472896673385&simpl=msg-f%3A16666764728… 8/8 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Need to open!
Kristi Peter
Fwd: Need to open! 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
------Forwarded message ------From: Lisa Brown
Usually don’t involve myself in politics, but decided today I needed to make my voice heard. My husband and daughter are both unemployed due to the closure of the casino and hotels. We are struggling! Unemployment payments are not covering the bills and we desperately want to return to work. Please, do not delay in opening up Lincoln City. Seems like the retired and those working for the government are the ones with money and ok keeping it closed. No wonder! Your getting paid!
Please open. Lisa
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666677027502963084&simpl=msg-f%3A16666770275… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - COVID 19 Restrictions
Kristi Peter
COVID 19 Restrictions 1 message
Maggie Conrad
To whom it may concern,
Our county needs to get back to work! I work in a hotel and it is disheartening that we have to turn guests away and ask them to sleep in their car or move on to Lane county to get a room for the night. In many cases these people are tired and road weary but yet we are not allowed to let them in our hotel because they are not essential or necessary travelers? How does that make sense?
Our employees need to get back to work. We have some great employees that are pleading to get back to work. They feel “bad” getting unemployment benefits and not being able to work for their money.
In summary, getting back to work would be better for our community (lodging taxes are a huge support), our folks that feel a need to travel and our morale.
Maggie Conrad | Director of Sales | [email protected]
Agate Beach Inn
3019 N. Coast Hwy | Newport, OR 97365
P: 541.574.2205 C: 541.270.6165 F: 541.265.5342
Hotel Reservations: 541.265.9411 or 800.528.1234
www.agatebeachinn.com
Like us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/Agatebeachinn/
Disclaimer
The information contained in this communication from the sender is confidential. It is intended solely for use by the recipient and others authorized to receive it. If you are not the recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or taking action in relation of the contents of this information is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful.
This email has been scanned for viruses and malware, and may have been automatically archived by Mimecast Ltd, an https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666680665924648707&simpl=msg-f%3A16666806659… 1/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Opening on June 1st 2020
Kristi Peter
Opening on June 1st 2020 1 message
'michele jantzen' via BOC
Good afternoon Lincoln County Commissioners,I am writing on the behalf of the Best Western Plus At Agate Beach. Our staff and managers are willing and able to meet the standards of reopening our hotel on June 1st 2020. Housekeeping,restaurant,maintenance and front desk will abide by all rules set forth by our managers and Corporate Headquarters. We will wear masks,gloves and wash our hands frequently keeping the 6 foot rule. The common areas and guest rooms will be sanitized to the Covid 19 standards. We will keep Guests Staff and all who enter our business aware of the house rules ,as they may change. Our goal is to keep all who enters safe and well so they may visit our beautiful beaches in Lincoln County year after year. The staff and management of Best Western At Agate Beach Thank You for listening.
Sincerely Michele Jantzen
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666662567105819999&simpl=msg-f%3A16666625671… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Slow open our County to save lives
Kristi Peter
Fwd: Slow open our County to save lives 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
------Forwarded message ------From: Michele Riley
Dear Commissioners,
Do any of you know someone with COVID-19? Or someone who has been exposed to the virus?
Well, I do.
My 82 year old mother is in a care facility where 13 people, both staff and residents have tested positive, she tested negative so far.
But my mother is not eating. Not only is she not eating but neither my brother nor myself can visit her due to the lockdown of such facilities. So we cannot cajole, encourage, demand etc. that she eat because we cannot be there beside her to get her to eat. We cannot feed her. My brother has taken her ice cream sundaes and she has eaten those. But how long will this last? How long will she linger? Will I be able to see her before she dies? Who will comfort her and hold her hand as she passes? Sadly, probably not my brother nor myself.
Now, we are talking life and death here with COVID-19, we are not talking about vacations, rentals and fun in the sun at the coast. This is about who lives and who dies. And Lincoln County wants to open up tourist destinations! Do you see that sharp dichotomy between what is really serious and what is a luxury? Do you BOC?
Open the businesses to save peoples’ livelihood and save them from being destitute and homeless? Oh, my yes, without question, yes. And make them safe for the workers and the patrons, yes please do. But vacations? Now? In a time of crisis? Absolutely not. People who have lost so much should be putting money away (if they have any) for a rainy day fund for the next crisis and the ones with excess funds should be helping out the less fortunate not going on vacation to potentially infect innocent residents of wherever they want to vacation. We all heard from these STR owners about how lucrative their “investment” was and how their “business” had taken off and made them oodles of money. And now, now they are crying poverty and you want us to feel bad for them and let them open up again and potentially infect all of us in the County so they can make their fortune again? Um, no, not so fast BOC. This should in no way be your priority at a time like this. This should be a time of how many lives can we save? How many can we give a safety net to in terms of shelter, food, medical care, not vacation rentals!
Do you see how foolish that even sounds? I am reminded of our own late, David Ogden Stiers in M*A*S*H when on a Christmas episode he brings the orphans some very expensive candies and then he finds that they had no food at all. And he says something to the effect of “How can they have candy when they haven’t even had any dinner?” So how can you worry about luxuries when many citizens of Lincoln County have no job, no food, have no home, have no basics? Doesn’t it seem foolish to worry about luxuries before basics BOC?
By the way, Travel Oregon has $800,000 in grant money (this is on newslincolncounty.com) to help out hotels and motels that have been operating for the past 5 years and who are still open. Yes, the hotel/motel industry is in terrible shape now and they do need
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666676069739459697&simpl=msg-f%3A16666760697… 1/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Slow open our County to save lives assistance but still, opening these is risky now. We should designate at least one motel for quarantine of COVID positive patients should that need arise to protect others from the virus.
Contact tracing of guests at all short-term rentals be they large or small is going to be difficult. Until that piece is in place these businesses should remain closed to protect all of Lincoln County’s residents.
I could give a rat’s behind about going on vacation and so should all of the people who lost their livelihood thanks to this virus, but no, we are not talking about regular Oregonians are we? No, we are not. We are talking about the owners of second, third, fourth and fifth homes that they use as cash cows not homes they ever lived in. But somehow all three of you view these people who have money to burn much more favorably than your constituents, your residents in their primary home here in Lincoln County. We whose fortunes rise and fall not with tourism but many times because of it. Can I find toilet paper today or will all the tourists have bought it out of our limited supply? Will I get eggs today or are they all gone? If I get sick, will there be a bed for me at the local hospital or will I have to be driven or flown to the valley for care because too many non-residents are taking up beds in Lincoln County?
Just this weekend I was at Fred Meyer’s customer service desk and the person there told me when I asked how she was doing said that she had seen quite an uptick in customers, tourists she said. And I said where are they staying since Lincoln County is closed and what are they doing since most businesses and all the attractions (like the Aquarium) are closed? She said “I guess shopping here.” It was a real slap in the face for both of us and frustrating too. And, nothing is being done about this and you want more of this to happen?!
So once more I am begging you to think about your residents, the full timers, the ones living in their home, not renting out one or more homes and residing elsewhere in Oregon or the United States or abroad. Think of us— the ones you see, the ones you don’t see, the ones whose lives depend upon you and your decisions. And one more thing, this past weekend 700 people were turned away from Cannon Beach because that beach wisely stayed closed. They protected their own, won’t you please do the same?
Respectfully,
M. Riley, Lincoln County Resident
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666676069739459697&simpl=msg-f%3A16666760697… 2/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Opening Oregon
Kristi Peter
Opening Oregon 1 message
Neil Brabec
Dear Commissioners:
I can empathize with all Oregonians who are suffering a financial loss as a result of this pandemic. However, I cannot understand how anyone can put a price on human lives.
Dr. Fauci is vehement that opening too soon will result in a second outbreak. China is now dealing with a second outbreak after opening their borders. By opening up too soon, you are placing a price on human life.
We put a price on human life now, will it ever stop.
Please consider all options before opening up Oregon too soon.
Thanks
Neil Brebec Newport
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666675923310055980&simpl=msg-f%3A16666759233… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Re: vacation rentals and openings, BOC meeting 14th May
Kristi Peter
Re: vacation rentals and openings, BOC meeting 14th May 1 message
Nicole Loxley
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
Dear Sirs,
I am writing to ask that the Board please keep the vacation rental and hotel closures in force until after July 4th weekend. As of today, 940 CV19 tests have been performed in our county of 50,000, representing a serious failure of our county health system. Without more access to testing, there is literally no way to know how many people in Lincoln County have CV19 or have been exposed to it. Allowing unrestricted flow of tourists into our area represents a huge health risk to our local population. Please, look at what is happening in other areas of our country and in the world. Opening of shut down areas brings new cases, followed by yet more severe and damaging shutdowns. Instead of trying to figure out ways to allow hotels and other businesses to open ASAP, the focus of the BOC should be to expedite relief programs for individuals and businesses who are in extreme hardship, so they can stay closed until it is safe for them to re-open. I say this as a small business owner of 10 years in Lincoln County, who has not been able to operate since 14th March and has not been able to get unemployment benefits due to total meltdown of the State system. So I do not make this request lightly, as it will impact me, too.
If it is considered too dangerous to hold Independence Day celebrations anywhere along the coast, how much more damaging is an influx of tourists likely to be? If there is not a spike in cases by July 4th, it will likely be safe to re-open hotels and VRDs.
Please consider carefully. The lives of your family, friends, neighbours, and our out of town visitors depend on it.
Thank you.
--Nicole Loxley
Sign of the Hawk Leathercraft
Yachats, Oregon
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666622539480789701&simpl=msg-f%3A16666225394… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Please open up Vacation Rentals
Kristi Peter
Please open up Vacation Rentals 1 message
'nikki hamilton' via BOC
Dear Lincoln County Commissioners,
For the past 15 years I have owned a small Property Management company in Yachats. Currently, we have 11 Vacation Rental properties that we mange for owners who live elsewhere. Our company is run from our home office and we earn a small commission. This is the sole source of income for my husband and myself.
Since the middle of March we have had no income due to Covid-19 restrictions. We understood the need to close our business in order to keep our community safe. We were hopeful that the closure would be short lived. That has not been the case. As of yet, we have NOT received any unemployment benefits despite our application. We also have not received a stimulus check. Our workers are contracted employees so we did not qualify for the SBA PPP loan. The City of Yachats floated by a loan opportunity, but the eligibility requirements state that you have to have a "brick and mortar" business within the City limits so we do not qualify. Honestly, I feel left behind by my community. And I am frightened for our future. I don't think I am going to be able to hold on to our health insurance.
I am writing to ask that you please not single out Vacation Rentals by restricting them longer than local Hotels. Please do not discriminate against a small business owner like myself from the Big Guys out there.
I know many other people will point out all of the ways that staying in a Vacation Rental is even safer than staying in a Hotel, so I will not be redundant and plead that case here, but it's true. We are connected to many industry leaders and are keeping current with new housekeeping standards and practices as they relate to Covid-19. The health and safety of our guests and employees not to mention the community that we live in and love is of utmost importance to us!
Please do not discriminate against Short Term Rentals and allow us to open as you would for local Hotels!
Respectfully submitted,
Nikki Hamilton Owner, Sea-Nik Vacation Rentals Yachats, Oregon
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666621457298901453&simpl=msg-f%3A16666214572… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Proposed limit of 6 occupants in VRD homes
Kristi Peter
Proposed limit of 6 occupants in VRD homes 1 message
'Patrick Adsuar' via BOC
I'm writing to note my objection to the proposed modification to short term rental occupancy rules to limit renters to 6 people per property, regardless of the permit limit on the home as part of the reopening plan under consideration.
I own a short term rental home in Lincoln city which allows 11 occupants. This is a 3100+ square foot home with 4 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms. Limiting occupants to 6 for this home vs. 11 doesn't do anything to limit those guests exposure to people outside the home, one way or another.
This useless restriction would further impact local employees to LC that rely on this industry for work, as well as further put home owners in LC that open their homes to VRD further in the hole from missed opportunities for rental income.
Sincerely, Patrick Adsuar (Owner of Chez Adsuar VRD in Roads End).
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666616323737285782&simpl=msg-f%3A16666163237… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Comments for May 14 Meeting - Public safety residential rentals
Kristi Peter
Comments for May 14 Meeting - Public safety residential rentals 1 message
Paul Reimers
Text resent - I did not see my May 8th email input on the public submittal listings.
I'm concerned for both renters and residents of our county. The introduction of vacationers into the area can expose current residents, and the vacationers can expose subsequent vacationers. I'd like to reduce the probability of vacationer to vacationer exposure. This would consequently reduce vacationer to current resident exposure. I see the county health website (lodging opening plan still under development) links to the state health dept for hotel/motel cleaning. These cleaning guidelines should be applied to the individual houses/apartments as well. Prior to opening the county to rentals, I request that the county require: a) a minimum level of cleaning of each rental, b) a post cleaning 24 hour minimum waiting period prior to new renter arrival, c) a certification process provided by the renting business/individual, and d) an inspection process. The OHA website recommendations for cleaning suspected contaminated community facilities should be followed. With the rental turnover frequency, it would be prudent to treat each location as a suspected contaminated facility. Contact tracing would fail to prevent numerous infections. The owner/rental agency should be required to certify to the public health agency a readiness to rent, together with a plan of cleaning and wait period after cleaning. The public health agency could either perform inspections, or require owners/rental agency to submit independent agency inspection reports at some reasonable frequency. I wouldn't think 100% inspection would be necessary, but some percentage in order to provide confidence of compliance. Thank you, Paul Reimers
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666639256955688142&simpl=msg-f%3A16666392569… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Regarding VRD's
Kristi Peter
Regarding VRD's 1 message
Robert Gambino
Hello Phil
Thanks for your letter of concern regarding the Lincoln County ban on vacation rentals, et all.
You are in a large group that is more than ready to spur our economy back onto its feet. Your concerns will be well represented.
Myself and the City Councilors of the City of Depoe Bay are very concerned for, and dedicated to, the citizens, businesses and visitors to our area. We will make decisions based on solid evidence and testimony such as yours. I have read every testimonial that has been sent to the county and I understand your concerns.
Thanks and be well, Robert Gambino
From: Phil Magnan
Dear honorable Mayor,
We are extremely concerned about the continued closure of Vacation Rentals and hotels. I know that the idea is to reduce the exposure to our city. I too share this concern, but after so many months passing I strongly believe it is possible to allow them to open.
If we simply allow the hotel industry to only book those clients who do not belong to a 'hot spot' of Oregon, or other State whose cities have "hot spots" I believe we can thrive without greater exposure and assure that we do not completely kill the tourist industry. If the County continues to keep the industry from being a destination for vacationers it will have effectively killed thousands of jobs and family run businesses for many years to come.
I implore you to correct this economy killing policy, that though well intended has gone on way too long and is harming so many family restaurants and Vacation rentals. The service industry is counting on your support.
Thank you for your help in this matter, Sincerely Phil Magnan
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666674185707419720&simpl=msg-f%3A16666741857… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Open Vacation Rentals
Kristi Peter
Open Vacation Rentals 1 message
Quincy Powers
Dear Leaders of Lincoln County,
It's far past time to open the economy in Lincoln County. The damage that has been done to the private sector from your unconstitutional shutdown far exceeds any benefit derived. You have ruined peoples livelihoods, causing excessive stress, drug and alcohol abuse, and spousal abuse. Your cure has been worse than the virus.
We are adults and can make the necessary adjustments to our businesses to reduce the risks of this pandemic. Please begin to treat us as citizens and not your subjects.
Quincy Powers Sandpiper Retreat
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666618469544477263&simpl=msg-f%3A16666184695… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Please consider
Kristi Peter
Please consider 1 message
Raj Patel
Dear Lincoln County
We kindly ask you to allow all hotels that practice social distancing, and guidelines given by health department for safety of guests and employees to open their hotel to leisure travelers.
We are here to serve, and also protect our guests and employees first.
Please kindly consider. God Bless.
Raj Patel Holiday Inn Express Newport 135 SE 32nd St, Newport, OR 97365 562-261-4086 [email protected]
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666621556846801029&simpl=msg-f%3A16666215568… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: VRDs in city of Newport
Kristi Peter
Fwd: VRDs in city of Newport 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
------Forwarded message ------From: Pivot Point
To Whom it May Concern:
Please plan to open VRDs and do NOT cap VRDs at 6 people.
My property is licensed for 10 people. We cater to large families and families with small children. If you impose the 6 person cap requirement then I will have to cancel my summer bookings and I will loose approximately $30,000. My business will fail if we loose 3/4 if our yearly income. Please don’t do this to us!
You are giving preferen al treatment to hotels if you cap my occupancy. The average hotel room is 320- 450 square feet. How can you force a much more spacious, private, single family home to cap occupancy at levels that cramped hotel occupants are in? My home is 2200 square feet, has a lot size of approximately 1/4 acre and allows for social distancing superior to hotels without further reducing my occupancy.
Please don’t violate familial status discrimina on. As a place of public accommoda on, it is illegal for me to discriminate based on associa on (“family of choice”/ LGBTQ+ community) or to discriminate based on a number of children that are part of the family.
Many other Local companies earn their income because I am in business. I hire cleaners, landscapers, construc on/ maintenance workers, pay local city taxes, local Spectrum dealers, etc. Many of my vendors risk of losing their stability when the county/city imposes the types of changes which are currently being considered.
Please represent us, the people whose livelihoods you hold in your hands.
Rene Tyson Pivot Point Produc ons
-- Rene Tyson 503-999-6759 Product Acquisition & Sales Pivot Point Productions, LLC
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666674241903476162&simpl=msg-f%3A16666742419… 1/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: VRDs in city of Newport “Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as ever you can.” ― John Wesley
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666674241903476162&simpl=msg-f%3A16666742419… 2/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: allowing motels in Lincoln County to open
Kristi Peter
Fwd: allowing motels in Lincoln County to open 1 message
'RICHARD WIESE' via BOC
Sent from my iPhone
Begin forwarded message:
From: Richard Wiese
-----Original Message----- From: Richard Wiese
As Oregon starts opening up it seems appropriate that Lincoln County start allowing motels to open. Using pretty much agreed upon procedures the motels can assure that they are not sources of virus transmission. It does, however, mean more tourists, and they can be a pain - even in "normal" years. But our economy and the continuation of our unique restaurants and shops is dependent upon more than just local business. Persons at higher risk of Covid-19 complication - and I am one - will need to evaluate what protections we need to feel comfortable. This will happen across Oregon and the Nation. Blocking off Lincoln County puts a large proportion of the business community at risk and not, materially, increase the safety of residents. Those of us at higher risk can still enjoy or cities and coast without increased danger - just a bit differently than in the past.
Thank you for all you effort on behalf of the citizens and for doing a task that brings more problems than joy.
Sandy
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666637291521361050&simpl=msg-f%3A16666372915… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Some thoughts on Covid-19 re-opening...
Kristi Peter
Some thoughts on Covid-19 re-opening... 2 messages
'Bob' via BOC
I understand the pressure being exerted from all sides to reopen our economy, especially when everyone around us is doing so. I’ve talked to many local business owners, and employees whose lives have been greatly impacted by this closure, and I desperately want them to get back to their livelihood. I understand the economic toll this has taken on them. But, I believe we must proceed with caution and heed the warnings from science, rather than the recommendations of politicians in Washington who are worried about economic numbers hampering their reelection efforts.
I know the decisions are difficult. But you were elected to make difficult decisions. I implore you to watch those areas around the country that have reopened or are reopening to see if there is a surge. Early evidence suggests there is. Implore you to wait until we see an increase in access to testing. We currently do not have anywhere near the level necessary to make an average assessment of our current situation. I would hope that when we do set a date for re/opening, the county would consider imposing a mandatory mask order, as evidence now suggests regions with 80% or higher mask usage have effectively contained the virus.
We all know that as soon as we open our parks and beaches, our restaurants and shops, our hotels and vacation rentals, there will be an influx of visitors from across the state as well as the nation. When we experience what most see as the inevitable spike and resurgence when we reopen, and the virus gains a stronghold in our community, it will be too late to shut the door. It would be good to know the actual prevalence of cases in our community before we reopen. Have we been effective in keeping the virus out f our community? Have most people been exposed, experienced mild symptoms and now recovered? If so, we can safely begin to reopen. If the majority of Lincoln County citizens have not yet been exposed, then an influx of tourists is precisely what we do not need at this moment.
The age demographics of our county skew to the higher side of the national average of 38.2, Lincoln County has an average of 50.9, placing more of its population in the at risk category.
I’ve included links to some articles that may be informative as you deliberate...
From the State of Oregon’s own weekly update, “Readers might notice that, although Oregon is moving towards reopening some businesses and relaxing some of the restrictions on daily activity, more COVID-19 cases and deaths were reported during the week of May 4 through May 11 than during the preceding week...” https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Emerging%20Respitory%20Infections/COVID- 19-Weekly-Report-2020-05-12-FINAL.pdf.
Currently the state of Oregon has tested 0.18% of its population for Covid-19... And, you still need a doctors order to get tested.
Additionally, very few, if any states currently meet the Presidents guidelines for reopening, which are already minimum and driven by economics. The Associated Press is reporting that a detailed 63 page report from the CDC on how to safely reopen the country was shelved by the President because it was “too restrictive.” https://apnews.com/ d4fb9744fb3524b6aaff1036f3ba9cd2
As we reopen and we go back to work, go back to the office, go back to our barbers, go back to our favorite restaurants, go back to worship... there will be a spike in cases. There is no one that does not believe this. Does anybody really believe it won’t start spreading again when we start “getting back to normal.”
Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, warned on Tuesday that Americans would experience “needless suffering and death” if the country opens up prematurely.”
Dr. Rick Bright, who was recently ousted from his position as head of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority for suggesting that “chloroquine” may not be the miracle drug Trump testified to Congress today, that “Our window of opportunity is closing. If we fail to develop a national coordinated response, based in science, I fear https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666679210531651134&simpl=msg-f%3A16666792105… 1/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Some thoughts on Covid-19 re-opening... the pandemic will get far worse and be prolonged, causing unprecedented illness and fatalities. Without clear planning and implementation of the steps that I and other experts have outlined, 2020 will be darkest winter in modern history." https://www.cnn.com/2020/05/13/politics/rick-bright-testimony-congress/index.html
Georgia, which pushed aggressively to re-open is now experiencing new outbreaks which Governor Kemp believes will stress state resources. my https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/georgia/articles/2020-05-05/kemp-warns-of- growing-outbreak-stressing-northeast-georgia
If you separate Northeast from the National curve, US cases are still rising at a rapid rate. https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/05/06/opinion/coronavirus-deaths-statistics.html
Ensemble/Consensus Covid-19 models: https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/covid-forecasts/ Most are being revised upward.
In another apparent attempt to ignore science based recommendations, the Whitehouse appears to have buried a CDC report warning against summer travel. White House 'buried' CDC plan warning against summer travel...
Although the President said on Monday May 11th that “all throughout the country, the numbers are coming down rapidly,” a May 7 coronavirus task force report which the President has refused to release is at odds with that assessment, showing spikes and hotspots spreading in rural America. https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white- house/unreleased-white-house-report-shows-coronavirus-rates-spiking-heartland-communities-n1204751
'Bob' via BOC
I realize I sent my previous remarks without my name.
[Quoted text hidden] [Quoted text hidden] Robert Barrett Yachats
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666679210531651134&simpl=msg-f%3A16666792105… 2/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Lincoln City Vacation Rental (VRD) reopening plan
Kristi Peter
Lincoln City Vacation Rental (VRD) reopening plan 1 message
Rob Bethge
As a long time owner and operator of a individually-owned and locally professionally-managed Vacation Rental Dwelling on Lincoln City coast, I feel it necessary to add my voice of concern, question, and confusion over an element of the proposed Lincoln County reopening plan that limits VRD occupancy to an upper limit of 6 persons.
In my particular case, the City of Lincoln City Planning office initially calculated my home's safe capacity at 25 persons, based on the number of bedrooms (seven), room sizes, egress, and other life safety factors. From that 25 capacity, I was then limited to 20 persons, across the seven bedrooms as a stipulation of my VRD license. Just in the past few years, the coastal hotel/lodging industry successfully petitioned to have VRDs limited further, so to comply with the newest permitting restrictions, my home was restricted to only using 5 of my legal 7 bedrooms, with a reduction in occupancy from 20 down to 16. Under this present reopening proposal, my seven bedroom home would be limited to just 6 persons, even though by the city's own calculations, I could have safely hosted 4-times that number of people.
At this reduction, I would be practically forced to reduce my per-night rate by 63%, even though my rental home provides adequate space for social distancing, including 7 bedrooms, 2 kitchens, and 4 bathrooms. A occupancy limit of just 6 persons in the case of this home is simply too restrictive given the particulars.
Thank you for taking the reopening of Lincoln County tourism as seriously as you are. I hope and trust that local owners of vacation rental homes like myself we be able to contribute to a healthy and vibrant Oregon Coast, with as much opportunity to participate and recover as will be afforded to the large hotels and motels.
Respectfully,
Robert Bethge 2221 SW Coast Ave Lincoln City, Ore 97367
Background: Lincoln County has submitted a 3 Phase plan which consists of framework to reopen Short-Term Vacation Rentals and other lodging. One of the recommendations being made in opening Phase 1 for Short Term Rentals has the “Recommendation of Limiting Occupancy to a max of 6 (must be related) persons no matter what the license provides.” We ask that you strongly reconsider this reduction in occupancy and abide by what a VRD's approved permit already allows.
Further, and in support of other industry commentary:
Access to my vacation rental properties is provided to guests in advance, and electronically which allows for no-contact interactions.
How is limiting the occupancy to 6 occupants safer than what the licensed VRD allows? If guests are checking into a home and not coming into contact with any other individuals, there is no additional risk by abiding by homes current licensed occupancy limits. Help us to understand the suggestion that all occupants must be related? What about those who live with friends/roommates/domestic partners? How is a family that lives in 2 different cities staying in a vacation rental safer than a group of individuals not related that live in one residence? If forced to allow rentals only to related guests, how do you propose that a management company protect itself legally and how would you suggest this rule be enforced? How do you propose we tell guests that already have reservations in June that are coming with more than 6 occupants that they must pick and choose who comes on vacation and who stays home? How can you place restrictions on occupants being related staying in a Vacation Rental, but have NO comparable restrictions on patrons that will dine at restaurants ? https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666621396681349368&simpl=msg-f%3A16666213966… 1/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Lincoln City Vacation Rental (VRD) reopening plan Commissioner Hunt has been quoted saying that he 'opposes including Vacation Rentals in any June 1 lodging reopening plan, fearing an “inundation” of visitors.” Why is this? How is a Vacation Rental home more of an "inundation" problem than a corporate hotel or motel?
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666621396681349368&simpl=msg-f%3A16666213966… 2/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Reopen Oregon
Kristi Peter
Reopen Oregon 1 message
Rob Sands
Lincoln County Board,
I am very concerned about the closure of some short term vacation rentals in Lincoln County. I own a single unit vacation rental in Lincoln County. Currently I am losing $400.00 a day, each day this closure is in effect. I have had to cancel all my April bookings, and my May bookings as well. If this closure stays in effect, I may lose my house because I cannot make the mortgage payment. Many other business, that rely on tourism, are losing much more. The longer this closure stays in place, the more it will negatively affect the local economy. By taking action now, we may be able to stimulate the local economy and start the recovery process. I am asking that the Board of Commissioners allow single family vacation rentals to be open in Lincoln County before June 1, 2020. When our house is rented, it is done so by families, who are already together in quarantine. The cleaning done in our house, by a professional cleaning company, meets or exceeds the CDC recommendations. As owners, we can post notices about social distancing, Lincoln County guidelines and other CDC recommendations to encourage everyone to stay safe. I understand the concern when it comes to multifamily units, such as hotels and motels, where there are multiple family’s in close proximity. I can see how multifamily units could cause issues with the spread of the COVID-19. However, there is no issue or danger with allowing single family units to be open. This would also help in a couple of ways. First, it would elevate the financial burden we as home owners are facing. Second, this would allow others in the state to get out of their homes, and help reduce their stress and anxiety of this COVID-19 situation. Third, this would help the local economy as money is spend within the community, revitalizing local businesses that are desperately in need. This is the first step to getting back to a normal life in Oregon, which is much needed. There is a point at which the stay home order will have a negative effect on the people of our state. That point is upon us now. We need to take the first step in opening Oregon. I urge Lincoln County to be in the forefront of this, and lead the way. Again, I am asking that the Board of Commissioners allow single family short term vacation rentals to be open in Lincoln County before June 1, 2020. Thank you for your time in this important matter.
Rob Sands Sands Investment Group, Inc. Whitehawk Investments, LLC. Salem, Oregon USA
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666677850628980139&simpl=msg-f%3A16666778506… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - re Phase I re-opening of Short term rentals
Kristi Peter
re Phase I re-opening of Short term rentals 1 message
'Roger Wecker' via BOC
To: Lincoln County Board of Commissioners
We would like to comment on proposed provisions for reopening Short-Term Vacation Rentals in Lincoln County. We own a vacation rental in Bella Beach, and have experienced lost income since rentals were closed. We look forward to a safe resumption of vacation rentals, but feel that the 6-person cap on occupancy is counterproductive to fair and safe continuance of business.
Lincoln County has licensed all SVR’s according to safe and responsible guidelines. Why would these guidelines not continue to apply at this time as well? All meals can be taken by guests at an SVR in a common kitchen area. This provides social distancing from unknown parties at its best. Most homes have enough square footage for 2 people per bedroom. In a Hotel/Motel room there are multiple rooms that open out into common hallways and even though pick up of meals in a common area has been set up, contact with others will surely occur. An SVR provides a private and safe location to socialize, share meals and experience quality time with family and friends.
In summary, we endorse a careful and safe reopening of short term vacation rentals. We have enormous confidence in the dedication and skill of management teams to prepare our homes for guests. We also believe that county licensing protocols have taken into account the capacity of rentals to provide safe and reasonable personal space to guests. We also see any attempt to legislate permissible relationships within rental parties extremely difficult to even define, much less enforce.
Thank you, Roger and Christine Wecker
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666639183485106156&simpl=msg-f%3A16666391834… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Opening Lincoln County: Your stated position regarding VRDs Batch 1
Kristi Peter
Fwd: Opening Lincoln County: Your stated position regarding VRDs Batch 1 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
------Forwarded message ------From: roger benney
Commissioner Hunt, We own a Vacation Rental in South Beach and up to now we have been supportive of your actions with regard to the Covid 19 Virus and the shut down of our businesses. We are now faced with the repayments of bookings for June, a loss we cannot afford and as such I am writing to reiterate all that Caleb has so well mentioned. We are very well set up with wonderful cleaners to present our VRD at the start of every booking with all surfaces etc sterilized ad in all senses as your committee have suggested we do. Our guests are almost always family and we do not see our VRD being in any way a vector for the virus to inhabit. We therefore ask you with respect to allow us to open our business very soon and let us have the date today Roger Benney,Sheryl Craner
On Monday, May 11, 2020, 02:46:59 PM PDT, Sheryl Craner
------Forwarded message ------From: Caleb Beaudin
Commissioner Hunt:
Good afternoon. I listened to this morning’s meeting and was shocked at your reluctance to support the vacation rental businesses within Lincoln County. When asked if there were any questions about the plan to reopen, you took the opportunity to interject your individual position to single out vacation rentals (VRDs) from other hospitality businesses including hotels, motels and camp grounds, and to disallow VRD’s from opening on June 1st. You stated opening vacation rental properties would “lead to an inundation on the county and an inundation on those other businesses trying to open”. How did you come to the position that “other businesses”, including hotels, are more important than vacation rental businesses and what is the basis for your biased in discriminating against vacation rental businesses? Vacation rentals allow for families, who are already living together, to isolate remotely and to regain their sanity in the serene environment of Oregon’s beach sanctuaries. Hotels and camp grounds put random groups of unrelated parties in immediate proximity to each other. I was unable to follow the rationale of your position. Please elaborate….
In general, you seem opposed the overall reopening of the county in a timely fashion despite the relative minimal direct COVID health impact to the county and the state. During the early meeting brief, Rebecca highlighted how all of the governor’s reopening measures have been met. Given the current state of readiness and measures in place, the other commissioners seemed willing and optimistic to open the county as expediently as possible and reasonable, possibly even May 15th. You have been a commissioner for a long time. Furthermore, you are a board member of the Economic Development Alliance. How is it that our area is one of the least impacted in the state, let alone the country, yet you are https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666683346095351517&simpl=msg-f%3A16666833460… 2/3 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Opening Lincoln County: Your stated position regarding VRDs Batch 1 pushing to be one of the slowest to reopen? Being on the Board of Economic Development Alliance and as a County Commissioner, I would think you of all people should be able to reasonably weigh the minimal health impacts versus the detrimental economic impacts this virus situation has caused in our region.
I’ve copied ~200 interested / impacted parties as well as the other commissioners on this email. I am sending this in two batches so there are less than 100 on each email. Regarding the above underlined questions, please reply all to both emails in explaining to your constituents the positions you have stated. We would appreciate your responses ahead of tomorrow’s discussion to further the opening plan. In light of this information, I encourage you to rethink your initially stated positions. Thank you for your prompt detailed response.
I also encourage more group input directly to this commissioner.
Best Regards,
CALEB BEAUDIN
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666683346095351517&simpl=msg-f%3A16666833460… 3/3 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Reopening lodging
Kristi Peter
Reopening lodging 1 message
Scarlett Kier
Dear Commissioners,
As you consider reopening the county I beg you to be cautious. This county has a low number of virus cases which is due in part to the caution you have used thus far. With less than 1000 test done in Lincoln County there is still a significant amount of unknown.
Yes, I know we need to open but medical professionals are very clear that this needs to be done slowly or we could see a reoccurrence that will be hard to get under control. Let’s not trade dollars for bodies. Lincoln County has a high population of retired community members that have contributed heavily to the success of the county, please don’t put them at risk.
If I’m correct that the governor’s order states that non-essential travel is restricted until July, I don’t know why the motels need to be opened. If you open the motels the tourist will come! Why are motels treated differently than the vacation rentals, both pay into the transient room tax.
On a personal level I don’t feel that enough is known or under control to open for tourist, but if you feel you have enough info and that the citizens of the county will be safe with the opening wouldn’t it make sense, be “slower” to open the vacation rentals first verses the much higher numbers of motel rooms? The fact of the matter is when either are open there will be little control whether they are following the rules or not.
Lastly, I’m concern about trash. When I drove pass Don Davis park last Saturday there were cars lining the road and trash cans overflowing on to the street, this is also happening on the Bayfront. With an opening will the parks, the city have the manpower to take care of the county so that trash and debris is not left as the tourist head home?
Thank you for your careful consideration.
Be safe!
K. Scarlett Kier
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666684826735675153&simpl=msg-f%3A16666848267… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Reopening lodging
Kristi Peter
Reopening lodging 1 message
Scarlett Kier
Dear Commissioners,
As you consider reopening the county I beg you to be cautious. This county has a low number of virus cases which is due in part to the caution you have used thus far. With less than 1000 test done in Lincoln County there is still a significant amount of unknown.
Yes, I know we need to open but medical professionals are very clear that this needs to be done slowly or we could see a reoccurrence that will be hard to get under control. Let’s not trade dollars for bodies. Lincoln County has a high population of retired community members that have contributed heavily to the success of the county, please don’t put them at risk.
If I’m correct that the governor’s order states that non-essential travel is restricted until July, I don’t know why the motels need to be opened. If you open the motels the tourist will come! Why are motels treated differently than the vacation rentals, both pay into the transient room tax.
On a personal level I don’t feel that enough is known or under control to open for tourist, but if you feel you have enough info and that the citizens of the county will be safe with the opening wouldn’t it make sense, be “slower” to open the vacation rentals first verses the much higher numbers of motel rooms? The fact of the matter is when either are open there will be little control whether they are following the rules or not.
Lastly, I’m concern about trash. When I drove pass Don Davis park last Saturday there were cars lining the road and trash cans overflowing on to the street, this is also happening on the Bayfront. With an opening will the parks, the city have the manpower to take care of the county so that trash and debris is not left as the tourist head home?
Thank you for your careful consideration.
Be safe!
K. Scarlett Kier
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666684826735675153&simpl=msg-f%3A16666848267… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Comment on Re-Opening Lincoln County
Kristi Peter
Comment on Re-Opening Lincoln County 2 messages
Scottie Jones
Dear Lincoln County Commissioners, Mayors, City Managers etal,
I own two vacation rentals, one in Newport and one in Waldport. We use these for our own vacations as well. I have reviewed the proposals you are looking at for re-opening the coast to visitors and find inconsistencies focused specifically on vacation rentals, including putting me in jeopardy of discrimination based on family size (a legal issue), and hurting my locally hired workers who assist with everything from cleaning to landscaping to reservations. I recognize not everyone on this email list deals directly with my property but I think it is important all of you hear what your vacation rental owners have to say.
My property in Newport is a duplex and legally licensed for 5 people in each unit. Because it is one building it will fall under your limitation of 6 people. My property in Waldport is licensed for 10 people and is a house. I believe it is unfair for you to cap my occupancy. The average hotel room is 320-450 square feet. How can you force a much more spacious, private, single family home(2500 sq ft) to cap occupancy at levels that cramped hotel occupants are in? My homes are 1800 and 2450 square feet respectively, on lots of 10,000 sq ft and allow for social distancing superior to hotels without further reducing my occupancy. Besides this, as a place of public accommodation, it is illegal for me to discriminate based on association (“family of choice”) or to discriminate based on a number of children that are part of the family.
The families that rent from us often spend their entire leisure budget in Lincoln County. Please set firm phases of 21 days, so that owners, workers, and travelers all understand that if positive benchmarks are met, reopening will continue. I am sure my cleaning person who I have known and used for over 10 years would appreciate this! She has had to apply for unemployment as an independent contractor and all her business is with vacation rentals. She has been my rock to make sure my properties look the best in the neighborhood and guests are welcomed in comfort.
I am speaking out because the County’s heavy-handed recent regulation has forced us (vacation rental owners) to organize. We have a working group to protect our rights. We are here to organize peacefully and make sure that lawmakers hear our voice, even if we are not full-time residents of your county and, therefore, unable to vote for officials who support a vibrant economy! The Coast has always been a tourist draw and this is the primary industry, but as a property owner, I also use my Waldport house as a second home. I feel I am a helper to stimulate the economy, not a hindrance, and have both paid and collected thousands of dollars for your local governments since 2005 in both property and occupancy taxes.
Thank you for allowing me to comment. I hope you weigh all comments equally as you move forward with rules for re- opening Lincoln County.
Sincerely, Scottie Jones
Property addresses: https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666621627027791390&simpl=msg-f%3A16666216270… 1/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Comment on Re-Opening Lincoln County 423 SW Elizabeth St, Newport 185 NW Maple St, Waldport
Home address: 20368 Honey Grove Rd Alsea 97324 541-487-4966
Virus-free. www.avast.com
Kaety Jacobson
[Quoted text hidden] -- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666621627027791390&simpl=msg-f%3A16666216270… 2/2 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Fwd: Reopen for all
Kristi Peter
Fwd: Reopen for all 1 message
Kaety Jacobson
------Forwarded message ------From: Sheri Neuschwander
We have paid property taxes in Lincoln County for the past 39 years. In recent years we have also paid licensing fees and room taxes. We were shocked and appalled when we read some of the ideas that you, our public servants have put forth, particularly as they apply to vacation rentals. Most were either arbitrary and capricious, economically unsound, punitive, or just plain stupid.
Do you people have any clue how you come across to ordinary, hard-working people trying to get by? You seem so willing to ignore the government responsibility of guarding our private property rights and personal freedoms. Shame on all of you.
Dale and Sheri Neuschwander Sent from my iPhone
Sent from my iPhone
-- Kaety Jacobson Lincoln County Commissioner Lincoln County Courthouse 225 West Olive Street, Room 110 Newport, OR 97365 [email protected] Office: (541) 265-4100 Cell: (541) 270-5128
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666673717999565860&simpl=msg-f%3A16666737179… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Oregon Re-opening Plan: Privacy and Security Implications of requiring contact information
Kristi Peter
Oregon Re-opening Plan: Privacy and Security Implications of requiring contact information 1 message
Sili Portland
The various Oregon State draft documents [and perhaps Lincoln City local] mention the potential collection of individual's contact information for 21 days in case of known infection. This has serious privacy and CyberSecurity concerns as institutions that collect this information must have in place cybersecurity and privacy controls to safeguard that data. Not specified is whether this is voluntary or mandatory.
Per http://www.documentcloud.org/documents/6879980-General-Employer-Guidance-v6-3-Copy.html , In part "Consider keeping a record of name, contact information and date/time of visit for customers/visitors for purposes of contract tracing if needed. Businesses should inform customers/visitors of the reason the information is being collected and how the information will be used. Example language: This business is collecting basic information to share with public health in the event a COVID-19 case is identified associated with this business."
This will require a set of privacy process and cybersecurity documentation which need to be drafted by a lawyer in conjunction with a CyberSecurity and Privacy Professional. A retail business cannot all of sudden require this without data privacy and security safeguards. I do work full time for an International CyberSecurity consortium, however I can provide consuting on this crucial issue. Please reach out to me at 971.901.5472 or [email protected].
http://www.documentcloud.org/documents/6879977-Sector-Guidance-Document-Restaurant-v9-3-Copy.html
https://www.oregon.gov/newsroom/Pages/NewsDetail.aspx?newsid=36528
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666634727253741030&simpl=msg-f%3A16666347272… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Lodging Reopening — Public Comment
Kristi Peter
Lodging Reopening — Public Comment 1 message
Sydney Kasner
Hi there,
My name is Sydney Kasner, a local of Lincoln City. I’ve been serving as the vulnerable populations outreach lead here in Lincoln County throughout COVID. I work as the lead mammographer at Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital.
I see some major problems with lodging re-opening, including:
Crowds persisting for longer periods of time, therefore putting more locals at risk. Learning that lodging is open likely will signal to Oregonians, “We want you here!” Which I do not think is productive with social distancing efforts. Huge densities of people in stores or shops will make it very difficult for stores to follow COVID guidelines. We must consider our very limited capacity in Lincoln County to care for COVID patients; there are simply not enough bed spaces if a hot spot occurred here. We must also regard our high percentage of locals that are considered vulnerable and more likely to be hospitalized with COVID statistically. I believe re-opening small businesses is sufficient in encouraging day trip tourism. There is not a need to overwhelm our rural area right away.
Thank you for taking the time to hear my concerns. I strongly recommend keeping lodging closed through the summer, and re-opening in late September when school begins. This will easily reduce our possible cases, while still allowing day trip visitors the vacation they want.
Thank you, -Sydney Kasner, R.T. (R)(M) Lead Mammographer at Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital Vulnerable Populations Outreach Lead for Lincoln County Public Health
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666621558516738226&simpl=msg-f%3A16666215585… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Lincoln City Short Term Vacation Rental - Phase 1 Reopening
Kristi Peter
Lincoln City Short Term Vacation Rental - Phase 1 Reopening 2 messages
Shilpa Karnik
We are the owners of the house at 1903 NE 70th Avenue, Lincoln City , Oregon. We have been ren ng our house as short term rental since 2011. The house has 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. We have a permit to allow 10 guests for the house.
Lincoln County has submi ed a 3 Phase plan which consists of framework to reopen Short-Term Vaca on Rentals, Hotels/Motels, RV Parks, and Campgrounds. One of the recommenda ons being made in opening Phase 1 for Short Term Rentals has the “Recommenda on of Limi ng Occupancy to a max of 6 (must be related) persons no ma er what the license provides”. We ask that you strongly reconsider this reduc on in occupancy and abide by what home permits allow. Access to vaca on rental proper es is provided to guests in advance which allows for zero human interac on.
Vaca on rentals are much safer than hotels and other places with a lobby where you can come into contact with many other individuals. How is limi ng the occupancy to 6 occupants safer than what the licensed VRD allows? If guests are checking into a home and not coming into contact with any other individuals, there is no addi onal risk by abiding by homes current licensed occupancy limits.
We strongly urge you reconsider this proposal and keep the current permit level.
Thank you.
Tanay and Shilpa Karnik
Tanay Karnik
Apologies for another email. Our property address is 1908 NE 70th St, Lincoln City,OR 97367.
Thanks -Tanay Karnik
From: Shilpa Karnik
[Quoted text hidden]
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666684988282735364&simpl=msg-f%3A16666849882… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Reopening of short term rentals in Lincoln City
Kristi Peter
Reopening of short term rentals in Lincoln City 1 message
Treasa Blake
I am writing to you to ask for your consideration on the following issues in the proposed reopening of short term rentals. I own a Vacation Rental Services company, (mainly Housekeeping) in Lincoln City.
What I am asking for is a "soft" opening of the short term rental industry. We need to return to work BUT we need to be safe and healthy. I believe the easiest way to achieve that is to mandate a "downtime" between each rental of every property. If I understand the "lifespan" of the virus correctly, we could let the unit sit without occupation for a specific time period, (a minimum of 48 hours seems best to allow vacant time between outgoing guests to housekeeping and between housekeeping to incoming guests) allowing the virus time to dissipate. I believe the majority of potential problems inside of vacation rentals could be remedied by implementing a mandated 'downtime'.
I have heard about the need to launder "unused" as well as used linens, blankets, towels, excreta. That is a PROBLEM...it would require quadruple cleaning time. Nor is there adequate laundry facilities to accomplish such a task in a vacation rental, (may be doable in motels but not vacation rentals). It would literally take a guests cleaning fee from, for example $150.00 to $600.00. As you can see, that alone will put us out of business.
Regarding the maximum occupancy of 6 persons .. what is the reasoning behind 6 related individuals, opposed to 10 unrelated individuals as per the CDC guidelines?
Regarding the closure of spas in VRDS .. what is the difference of guests sitting around the kitchen table as opposed to lounging in the hottub? Could they made available if drained and sanitized after every rental?
Regarding sanitizing high touch areas hourly .. this is LITERALLY IMPOSSIBLE to accomplish in VRDs. Cleaners don't stay in the rentals with guests. VRDs should be exempt from this requirement.
Regarding removal of paper products .. does this apply to paper towels, toilet paper, napkins, etc? Does this mean none are to be provided for guests? Does the order of removal apply to books/magazines as well as boardgames/puzzles? I am also concerned about the condiments/spices/food staples (flour, sugar, coffee) provided for guest use in vacation rentals. Should these items be mandated for removal?
Thank you for your consideration. Please help us stay safe, healthy AND employed.
Treasa Blake Oregonized Vacation Rental Services
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666621081506943243&simpl=msg-f%3A16666210815… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Short-Stay Rentals - Reopening
Kristi Peter
Short-Stay Rentals - Reopening 1 message
Theresa McLeod
Dear Commissioners,
I am the owner of a 600 sf cottage on the coast in Waldport. It has been in our family since the 1970's. It is licensed as a rental. I respectfully request short term rentals be allowed to reopen at the end of this month. As a self contained home with a kitchen, guests are self sufficient. The greatest attraction for our guests, based on comments at the end of their stay, is the beach. Social distancing and other responsible precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 can be exercised in short stays.
As an employee in health care, I do respect the concern of COVID-19 as well as the successful results of recommended precautions such as cleaning and sanitizing, small gatherings and social distancing. Our Yachats property manager has deep-cleaned our cottage and has added additional sanitizing and cleaning steps for our guests and between rentals once we are allowed to reopen. Because most of our guests are repeat visitors annually, they will respect these important steps to protect the community and themselves in an environment they love.
The loss of revenue has been significant. It has impacted our Yachats manager and her independent local contractors. To endure another month of closure when we are committed to health and safety would be devastating.
I respectfully request short stays be allowed to reopen May 31, 2020.
Thank you, Theresa Erstad McLeod
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666678820496056510&simpl=msg-f%3A16666788204… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Covid-19 Mandate Consideration Letter - On behalf of public, short-term rental properties
Kristi Peter
Covid-19 Mandate Consideration Letter - On behalf of public, short-term rental properties
'Tracy Zygar' via BOC
Dear City and County Commissioners,
With the current knowledge of COVID-19, my hope is that we gain some normalcy and allow people to choose whether to travel. Booking a short-term rental home with the knowledge on how to prevent the spread of corona virus is an individual choice. People who are at risk, older people, those with underlying health conditions, those susceptible will make the choice not to travel and or will cancel their reservation. Each person has a different comfort level and those concerned are not traveling due to the fear of contracting the virus. There is a level of trust that those who book will follow the standards put forth by the media to wash their hands, not touch their face, stay 6’ apart, and do their part. They will do their part to be part of the current community and keep others safe. Whether at home or a vacation home (that may be larger than they are currently living) same rules apply to disinfect. People will still go to the store, essential workers will still work, and people will still go need services. The short-term rental company is a service that people pay for and want to isolate at a different location to get away. Those concerned that don’t trust the housekeeping staff will double-disinfect. Each person is responsible for taking precautionary measures during this time.
By extending the mandate and order to say at home the level of trust is not with the public. I feel like the severity of the situation has been broadcast and the public has been warned and therefore it is up to every individual to be responsible.
For me I count on discussing the above with individual upon booking and canceling. Those that don’t feel comfortable cancel and those that choose to travel know what they are doing. This secures a job for those in the travel industry and provides revenue for the city or county.
For those who are unemployed or laid off they are getting the minimum ($500) plus $600 extra a week to stay home. Most are getting more to stay home than work. What is the incentive for them to go back to work and how can you control where they choose to go?
Everyone has the same warning and it’s time to get the people back to work and leave it to the public to ensure they disinfect. People will wear masks, people will take chances, people still must live. The job I have working in the short-term rental company pays my bills, supports my family, and I’m still working. I’m not getting time off or on unemployment. That is what my future could look like if the city decides to cease rentals. I ask you to consider leaving it to the individuals as the knowledge of Covid-19 is out.
If not now, when? When will there be trust in the public?
Sincerely,
Tracy Zygar
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permmsgid=msg-f%3A1666632701068805953&simpl=msg-f%3A16666327010… 1/1 5/14/2020 Co.lincoln.or.us Mail - Time to Reopen
Kristi Peter
Time to Reopen 1 message
lq0435gm Newport, OR
It is time to reopen please.
Vicki Stewart
General Manager
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham
Newport OR 97365
541-867-7727
https://0435lq.com
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=a824b9af29&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f%3A1666676102201690171&simpl=msg-f%3A16666761022… 1/1