City Might Sniff Out Online, Unregistered Rentals

More than 500 hotels, bed and breakfasts and other short-term rentals are registered with the city as required by city ordinance.

But in recent years, more and more rooms and homes are being rented through Web sites like Airbnb. And they don't register with the city, which means potentially lost revenue and other complications. 

How big is the problem? Consider that 366 rentals in Newport are listed on airbnb.com as of Monday night -- more than half the number of registered rental dwellings in the entire city.

As a result, city leaders are on the verge of taking action.

On Wednesday, the City Council will consider a measure that would require all online rentals are registered with the city.

In addition, the resolution, sponsored by Councilor Naomi Neville, calls upon the city administration to develop a policy "to ensure that on-line rentals are properly registered and are in compliance with all applicable ordinances" and to prepare a report by the council's October meeting.

A major concern among city officials is the possibility of rentals not meeting the same fire and safety codes as legitimate hotels and bed and breakfasts.

What do you think of the resolution? Is it unfair for bed and breakfasts, hotels and other short-term rental businesses to compete against unregulated properties on sites like airbnb.com? Or is the City Council interfering with the public's right to rent their properties? Chime in in the comments section. And please, keep it civil!