To the Editor:

It would seem that Haywood County has a new growing pain, at least for my small neighborhood. The relative new rental phenomenon of Air B&B’s has landed in our county. 

It is true that we have become a very popular destination for visitors and relocation for many but suffer a lack of rental accommodations. Asheville has already attempted to tackle this touchy issue, but get ready Haywood, it’s here, too. 

As I write this, there are no county or city ordinances in place to protect us homeowners who cherish our unique mountain lifestyle. I, among others, value my right to peace and quiet by purchasing a home in a private small neighborhood, only to discover that my neighbor has turned his home into a mini motel with no regard for the rest of us. We have a self-maintained private road that is being abused and ruined due to extreme traffic from his guests. No neighborhood association was needed in the past, so now it’s too late. We are being held hostage to intrusive, destructive traffic, loud late-night parties and simple rudeness. Yet, these “Air B&B” hosts advertise themselves as the perfect zen-like dwelling for their guests. 

Something has to be done before this gets completely out of hand. As a taxpayer, I should be entitled to some property rights without having to spend a fortune on lawyers and legal costs to enjoy my own backyard. I have researched many avenues so far only to be advised to get a lawyer. 

I would like to thank the many nice county personnel and city staff including Mayor Gavin Brown for giving me what they could. But sadly there is very little to protect us homeowners. Wake up Haywood! This is not fair for us that live here full time, work hard and pay taxes. If you are experiencing the same or similar, please speak up and be heard. Our elected politicians need to bone up on this issue soon.

Mylan Sessions 

Waynesville