Low-income housing, long standing, being forced out of business? What is wrong with this picture?

Why is the county only now enforcing zoning laws, and only for this type of business? Is it just for increasing the tax base by rezoning them? If so, why not work with these business owners instead of closing them down.

True, there is now a plethora of housing out there, but low-income is still few and far between. Are we trying to force out the SSI and welfare people? They must live somewhere. Or are we discriminating and attempting to move them to Sonoma and Mendocino counties?

“Not in my backyard” is getting to be an anthem, drug programs were first on the hit parade, now long term housing in former motels.

This is not a new phenomenon, long-term tenants in motels have been part of Lake County for many years. I guarantee, most of these landlords would rather rent to transients, as the rate of return is much higher.

But except for the summer season, there is far too little transient business. Only the fishing tournaments keep the larger motels open and prosperous, but the smaller ones would go broke without the long-term tenants, and who would wash dishes, and do our yard work?

I strongly urge the county to work with these business owners, not against them.

Dave Gebhard lives in Lakeport.