I read an interesting article today about new tech startups running into problems with outdated government regulations. Three new tech companies provide the ability for NYC tourist to spend the night in private homes, which they find through websites. The rooms are cheaper than hotels and more private that hostels. Yet instead of promoting such innovation, it seems the City in their constant need for money are going after the hosts of such rooms. What is worse is they are going after these hosts with a heavy hand. In one case, the city is attempting to fine a host 30,000.00 for one night stay at 300.00 stay.
For a mayor who has been trying to make NYC the silicon valley of the east it seems odd that he would be pushing so hard against an innovate way to bring tourist dollars to NYC.
John Feinblatt, chief policy advisor to Mayor Bloomberg, noted the city has different building codes for private homes and for hotels.
“Hotels have sprinkler systems, hotels have those instructions on the back of the door that tell you how to get out during an emergency,” Feinblatt said. “Hotels have to have two means of egress. Because we know that people who stay for a week or a day or three days need these extra supports in case of an emergency.”
While true a person who is staying one or two days in a private home may not know not know the home as well as the homeowner, a private home is more than likely going to have amenities to deal with an emergency better than a hotel may have.
This is more than likely the wave of the future for going places; but more than that these are companies that have gone out of their way to help NYC. One of the companies already arranged temporary housing for more than 400 New Yorkers made homeless by Sandy. It seems we should revisit the regulations that are holding NYC back from its ability to bring new innovation here.
http://www.wnyc.org/shows/newtechcity/blogs/new-tech-city-blog/2013/feb/05/nyc-tells-airbnb-hosts-dont-get-too-cosy/
