Luc Rabouin, leader of Projet Montréal and a candidate for mayor, made a significant appearance in the Plateau today to highlight a recent triumph in Montreal’s battle against illegal short-term rentals. Rabouin emphasized the successful conversion of seven housing units that were previously used for Airbnb rentals, citing not only tourism-related issues but also criminal activities within the properties.
This case underscored the challenges of enforcement and underscored the necessity for stricter regulations concerning platforms like Airbnb, according to Rabouin. He criticized his opponent, Soraya Martinez Ferrada of Ensemble Montréal, for advocating for more lenient bylaws that would permit an increase in short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods.
Rabouin asserted that such an approach would exacerbate the housing crisis in Montreal, advocating instead for a reduction in short-term rentals on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. He emphasized the need for more permanent housing options for Montreal residents, stressing the importance of tackling affordability and livability issues within the city.
The focus of Rabouin’s party continues to be on ensuring housing affordability, enhancing quality of life, and clamping down on property owners who profit from illegal tourist accommodations while local families struggle to secure housing. Montrealers are gearing up for the upcoming elections on Nov. 2.
