Many Maine communities are evaluating the impacts of the short-term rentals by either capping, eliminating or regulating them. Their presence in the housing market has divided opinions.
In November, Portland voters approved a ballot measure that limits rent increases to a maximum of 5% after a tenant voluntarily leaves a unit and a new resident comes in. Proponents say that initiative, along with a referendum passed in 2020 to cap rent increases at the rate of inflation and create a board to
Several councilors said they are frustrated by the referendum process and see potential for unintended consequences in using it excessively to create policy.