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≡ LA28 AND THE L.A. BUDGET ≡
Airbnb became a worldwide partner of the International Olympic Committee in 2019 and has not been shy in looking for ways to increase its profile.
It is now promoting a program to have the City of Los Angeles allow short-term rentals in second homes and investment properties; L.A. City regulations adopted in 2018 allow homeowners only to offer “primary residences” on short-term platforms such as Airbnb.
Now, however, L.A. Mayor Karen Bass is proposing – as part of her new budget – a change to allow “vacation rentals,” that would be in effect through 31 December 2028, including the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Moreover, Bass is proposing to allow pre-payment of some or all of the City’s Transient Occupancy Tax to be collected, “in advance of the 2028 Olympics from any payer that wishes to assist the City in accelerating critical infrastructure projects.” Airbnb is promoting both proposals.
As much as $50 million could be at stake, at a time when the City desperately need revenue. If passed, Airbnb could get some FIFA World Cup business this summer and 2027 NFL Super Bowl action, prior to the 2028 Games.
Hotel worker unions are against the idea, as their members would not be involved in Airbnb properties and the availability of more homes for rent could lessen hotel room demand during the major events upcoming through 2028.
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Two motions by Los Angeles City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson concerning the LA28 organizing committee were both waived by the Council’s Ad Hoc Committee on the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, which he chairs.
His 15 April motion asks for “transparent procurement and contracting protocols” by LA28 regarding procurement and spending for the Games and his 17 April motion insists that the organizers reimburse the City for all costs beyond “normal and customary responsibilities” of the City.
The waiver should send both motions directly to the City Council for discussion, following the tension-filled 14 April meeting of the Council’s Ad Hoc Committee on the Games with the LA28 organizers. No date for consideration has been set yet.
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