Windle: Keep the annual affidavit in place

The city of Aspen is considering eliminating the homeowners’ association (HOA) affidavit requirement for short-term rental (STR) permit renewals, as outlined in proposed Ordinance No. 08, Series of 2025. One can only assume that the purpose for eliminating this important form that requires signature of the homeowner’s association is to reduce paperwork for the STR office.

The HOA affidavit is not red tape — it’s one of the few tools communities have to ensure STRs operate responsibly and safely. Each affidavit should trigger an annual compliance review where the HOA can confirm that owners are in good standing, safety equipment is in place, lodging taxes are paid, and any past violations have been resolved. Without this process, there is no structured checkpoint for oversight.

The affidavit also reinforces accountability. It reminds STR owners that operating a rental is a privilege, not a right, and that they are responsible for guest behavior, compliance with city rules, and respect for their neighbors. Removing this safeguard would weaken community standards and increase the risk of repeat violations.

We understand the city’s goal of streamlining renewals, but accountability and efficiency can coexist. A simplified form or digital submission system could reduce paperwork without eliminating oversight altogether.

Aspen’s neighborhoods depend on local involvement to maintain balance between residents and short-term rentals. Removing HOA verification from the process removes one of the only effective layers of local governance we have.

Please keep the annual affidavit in place.

Brian Windle

Aspen