News You Can Use – July 7, 2025 – TOP STORY: Ocean City rental ban faces special election as both sides gear up

Today’s roundup includes major regulatory votes, enforcement pushes, and a troubling trend of violent incidents at party houses — a narrative opponents of STRs continue to exploit. Here's what you need to know:

Ocean City, MD Vacation Rental Ban Heads to Special Election

A high-stakes special election is set for July 22 in Ocean City, MD, where voters will decide the fate of a sweeping ban on short-term rentals in certain residential zones. Both supporters and opponents are ramping up campaigns, with yard signs popping up across the community and local officials facing mounting pressure.

Key takeaway: The outcome of this election could set a major precedent for East Coast coastal cities — and shows how fast local governments can move from policy to the ballot box when controversy erupts.

Source:
🔗 OC Today Dispatch – Fight brewing on both sides

Liberty Township, Ohio Passes Full STR Ban

Officials in Liberty Township (near Cincinnati) voted to prohibit all short-term rentals, citing concerns about public safety, property values, and neighborhood disruptions. The ban comes amid increasing scrutiny of STRs across Ohio.

Key takeaway: Ohio continues to emerge as a battleground for STR rights, and full bans like this are gaining traction in suburban communities.

Source:
🔗 Journal-News – STRs now prohibited in Liberty Twp.

North Myrtle Beach Seeks Long-Term STR Strategy

City leaders are exploring more permanent regulatory tools to manage STR growth and compliance. While no immediate changes have been made, the discussion reflects long-simmering tensions between local residents and property owners.

Key takeaway: Even in STR-friendly beach towns, local governments are under pressure to “tighten up” — particularly on enforcement and zoning boundaries.

Source:
🔗 MSN – City looks for long-term solution

Party House Violence: National Trend Raises New Concerns

A disturbing pattern of violence at unregulated or poorly managed STRs is making headlines again:

• Columbus, OH: A juvenile was killed and six others injured in a party house shooting at an STR in East Columbus.
  🔗 10TV News
  🔗 Follow-up report

• Flamborough, Ontario: Another STR party ended in gunfire — the second violent incident at this same rental since a homicide there in 2024.
  🔗 The Hamilton Spectator

• Florida Panhandle: A teenager has been arrested in a deadly shooting that took place at an Airbnb over spring break.
  🔗 The Independent

Key takeaway: These tragic events are increasingly weaponized by opponents of STRs. Proactive safety protocols, local coordination, and responsible hosting are more critical than ever.

Cape Charles, VA Cracks Down on Compliance

The town inspector in Cape Charles is stepping up enforcement to bring all STRs into compliance with safety and registration laws. The effort comes after months of resident complaints and several non-compliant units.

Key takeaway: Compliance sweeps are becoming more common in coastal towns — and often precede larger regulatory shifts.

Source:
🔗 Cape Charles Mirror

Richmond, VA Debates STR Rules Update

City Council in Richmond is revisiting short-term rental regulations, with some members pushing for new zoning or permit requirements. The discussion is still early-stage but signals potential changes to come.

Key takeaway: While not yet final, Richmond’s review adds to a wave of mid-sized cities reconsidering their STR policies in 2025.

Source:
🔗 Richmond.com – Council eyes new rules

Questions or concerns about how these stories might impact Newport Beach STRs? Feel free to reach out — we’re here to help.

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