Residents raise licensing and short‑term rental concerns; bed tax suggested

A resident raised questions about running businesses from homes and short‑term rentals at Parker's council meeting, saying a recent review showed “over 40% of the businesses in Parker were improperly or not licensed.” The resident said about 40 Airbnbs exist in town and suggested a bed tax to help fund beach nourishment.

Council members indicated a business license is required; one speaker noted, “I think it's $4.64 a year,” while Mayor Kelly and staff said they would obtain an official written answer and follow up the next day. Officials did not adopt any change at the meeting and emphasized they would not make enforcement exceptions that would treat some property owners differently.

The exchange also referenced other local taxes used by nearby jurisdictions (for example, Callaway's impervious area charge) as context for revenue options. The council did not place any bed‑tax proposal on the agenda; members suggested a formal agenda item and a planning or staff review before any ordinance or revenue change would be considered.

Next steps: Mayor Kelly said staff would provide an official response on licensing and whether existing short‑term rentals are compliant; no ordinance or vote on a bed tax was scheduled during the meeting.