Pools aren’t the problem; it’s lack of respect

Rehoboth Beach may institute a moratorium on new pool permits, but will that really address the problem? As one recent letter writer noted, it’s not the pools that are creating the objectionable noise; it’s those using the pools.

Once again, when it comes to governing, the real art lies in striking the correct balance of regulation without overreaching.

At first glance, many might see a moratorium as too drastic a tool for the problem.

But at this point, those on the outside looking in should at least sense that the simple fact a moratorium is being discussed at all signals a serious concern.

This is an issue that should be coming as no surprise. The trend started about 20 years ago when Rehoboth Beach property owners began partitioning large lots to create many more smaller but still buildable lots. Subsequent property owners, paying increasingly higher prices, then set about maximizing the size of the houses they could build.

The result is not only more houses squeezed into the resort’s relatively small footprint, but also larger houses with more bedrooms to be involved in the rental market, long a part of the Rehoboth Beach fabric. The moratorium discussion is the thunder of the storm that’s been brewing for several years.

There are parking concerns related to larger homes being rented to larger groups, but clearly, based on extensive comments from concerned neighbors, noise from pools at rental houses is the No. 1 issue. Rehoboth Beach police say in general, people quiet down when they are officially advised they are making too much noise.

But most concerned neighbors say they hesitate to call police because they hate to rain on others’ vacations. That’s certainly considerate. So what do they want?

As in many cases, it comes down to respect. Rehoboth Beach needs to convey in the strongest of terms that it expects visitors to show respect, keep noise levels down between 9 p.m. and 9 a.m., and keep the resort experience enjoyable for residents and visitors alike.

Where’s the hammer?

Those owners whose properties aren’t managed with respect will lose their privilege of renting.