Jefferson City council, neighbors oppose hopeful Airbnb renter

Several people in a Jefferson City neighborhood opposed a homeowner’s request to host rentals through a home-sharing app, Airbnb. After hearing their testimony, the Jefferson City council unanimously voted against awarding the license.

Julie Glaser requested a short-term rental license from the city, which is required for aspiring Airbnb hosts, to offer up rooms in her home at 1500 Timber Trail.

“As a single mom, I wanted to earn some extra income. But with four children, I’m pretty busy,” Glaser said. Her application received prompt pushback.

“I do not like the idea of strangers coming in and out of the neighborhood,” said Martha Kleindienst.

Kleindienst and several other residents of Timber Trail told council members they are concerned that AirBnB renters would depreciate the values of their homes and put their safety at risk.

Although she said she has used the app several times, Kleindienst said the growing popularity of AirBnB would negatively impact several neighborhoods.

“I think it’s going to be like a cancer growing in our community. Since it’s allowed anywhere, there’s no protection,” Kleindienst said.

The city council has received eight applications for a short-term rental license. Glaser’s is the only one that has been denied.

According to data from Airbnb, the app is used in 24 counties in Missouri as well as St. Louis city. Cole county had the third-fewest number of guests in 2018.