As the coronavirus pandemic rages on and cases continue to rise, party houses have become a concern for some Los Angeles neighborhoods.
According to the L.A. Times, the Hollywood United Neighborhood Council has been attempting to combat issues within the large, short-term rental homes and has tried to get groups to wear masks.
A private house party in Beverly Hills Tuesday drew a crowd of around 200 and ended with gun violence. The party did not happen under an Airbnb reservation, but the home does appear to have been listed on a variety of rental websites. It’s unclear whether the homeowner was present for the gathering, but it sheds light on the challenges of enforcement when it comes to private gatherings, whether in a short-term rental or not. Some people say authorities have been slow to act on violators, even with a party house ordinance and home-sharing ordinance in effect. Regulating short-term rental properties has long been a concern in local communities, but worries are intensified because parties and gatherings could contribute to the spread of COVID-19.
Today on AirTalk, we discuss party houses and what enforcement looks like amid the pandemic. We want to hear from you. What are your concerns? Join the conversation by calling 866-893-5722.
We reached out to Airbnb, but they were unable to make someone available for an interview
Guests:
Richard Winton, investigative and crime writer for The Los Angeles Times who has been reporting on party houses; he tweets
Paul Koretz, Los Angeles city councilmember representing District 5, which includes the neighborhoods of Encino, Bel Air, Mar Vista and Palms; he tweets
Capt. Steve Lurie, Los Angeles Police Department Hollywood Division
Nick Greif, chief of staff for Los Angeles city Councilmember David Ryu; he tweets