(The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries and letters to the Editor of The Somerville Times belong solely to the authors and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville Times, its staff or publishers.)

I write in support of resident Alan Bingham’s letter published on July 14th. While everyone acknowledges that affordable housing is fast disappearing and that condo conversion is one cause of the shrinking supply, as Bingham aptly points out, a couple approaching retirement generating income through Air BNB rental, is not necessarily curtailing an affordable unit.

Sharing one’s house to offset living costs is as old as urban life itself. Somerville is exemplary as a community where extended families live and grow, where foreign and domestic students find accommodation, and nowadays, where many travelers want to be while exploring the area’s restaurants and attractions.

Since the ordinance is not due to go into effect until 2020, the City Council should consider Bingham’s idea for a grandfather clause:  “It would seem to make sense that given these unforeseen consequences have such a damaging impact on some of our fellow citizens that a grandfather clause for long term residents to continue as they have been doing, could be appended to the ordinance. To limit the number of days a STR could be provided annually does not make sense. “

We agree.

Sincerely,

Susann Wilkinson & Michael Fischer

Somerville