Letter to the Editor
House Bill 3554, originating in the Committee on Economic Development and Tourism, has been introduced to amend the Code of West Virginia, 1931, by adding thereto a new section designated as §8-12-5h; all relating to prohibiting a municipality or the governing body of any municipality from limiting rental of a property in whole or in part, or as a limitation upon the duration, frequency, or location of such rental, by ordinance or otherwise. This bill is being pushed fast and a reading before our Legislature was Thursday, February 23rd, 2023. The second reading was scheduled Friday, February 24th, 2023, then moves forward to our State Senate. This is another example of state overreach concerning the powers belonging to municipalities to govern according to the best interest of their residents and communities. Under the guise of promoting tourism, they are bowing to lobbyists and those whose prime purpose is to “ RAPE” our communities for as much profit as possible, regardless of the negative effects it leaves in it’s wake. Second home owners have bought up as much real estate as possible, paying exorbitant prices, causing a ripple effect; unaffordable housing, increased rental costs for long term renters, and lack of workers due to unavailability of housing. Tourism only creates minimum paying jobs with inadequate work hours and no benefits. No workers, no businesses, plain and simple. Apparently full control of our municipalities and revenue supersede the well-being of our residents and communities as far as our representatives and State are concerned. Maybe it’s time we start voting for those whose concern is foremost for “US” and not outsiders/tourists/lobbyists. WE, as True West Virginians, have always been resilient and will continue to fight to protect our residents and communities. I urge all residents of Davis to contact our representative John Paul Hott- johnpaul.hott@wvhouse.gov, (304) 340-3399 to vote against this bill. Also contact Randy Smith-randy.smith@wvsenate.gov, (304) 357-7995 and Jay Taylor- jay.taylor@wvsenate.gov, (304) 357-7914 as it moves forward to our State Senate.
Jennie Helmick
Recorder, Town of Davis