The City Council is not ready to decide whether to officially ban short-term rentals of homes in Manteca for 30 days or less in residential neighborhoods or to allow them with restrictions.

They want more staff research done before they make that call.

One thing, however, is for sure. They don’t want any Airbnb-style party houses.

Staff indicated they would be able by the next council meeting to provide the framework for two options elected leaders said they would like to weigh: The outright ban of short-term rentals or allowing them with restrictions to prevent them from creating problems in neighborhoods. And if they are allowed, the council is leaning toward treating them like hotels when it comes to the city’s 12 percent room tax.

Councilman Charlie Halford, in leading the objection to short-term rentals being used as party houses, referenced the July 20, 2020 shooting at a Vrbo rental on Woodward Avenue just outside the city limits where seven people were shot with two suffering critical injuries during a house party.

His council colleagues also made it clear that if short-term rentals are allowed they want rules to make party house rentals don’t occur.

Neighbors of one Airbnb that rents for $215 a night in the Chadwick Square told of loud music being played late into the night, drinking by guests in the neighborhood park across the street, and a large influx of cars.

At one point the house was rented for two weeks for a wedding and associated celebrations.

Several commenters including a representative of real estate agents argued banning short term rentals would undercut efforts to have affordable housing. They also pointed out for the need for many health care and construction workers brought into the community for several months at a time to secure housing.

Staff noted Internet rental sites restrict rentals to 30 days or less due to the fact rentals for longer period kick in state regulations.

Using the Chadwick Square house as an example, a neighbor noted to rent it for a month at a time would cost $6,450 which he pointed out is anything but affordable.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com