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Episode 1:"Monroe County Hotel Tax Filing Made Easy" Featuring Theresa Johnson, Monroe County Treasurer

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Municipal Candidate Survey to Inform Voters on Key Community Issues

Poconos, PA – September 30, 2025 – The Poconos Association of Vacation Rental Owners (Poconos VRO) has announced the launch of a Municipal Candidate Survey, designed to give voters clear insight into where local candidates stand on important community issues—including vacation rental homes (VRHs).

Vacation Rental Homes are a cornerstone of the Poconos economy. With more than 6,500 properties across Wayne, Pike, Monroe, and Carbon Counties, VRHs contribute an estimated $3 billion annually to the region’s economy. They generate millions in local tax revenue, support thousands of jobs in hospitality and property services, and drive spending at restaurants, shops, gas stations, and attractions.

At the same time, VRHs are often part of broader community discussions involving zoning, housing, and neighborhood impact. Local elected officials play a critical role in shaping these policies—making it essential for voters to understand candidates’ positions before casting their ballots.

The survey, developed with input from a bi-partisan volunteer committee, includes 12 questions related to Vacation Rental Homes and 3 questions on other top-of-mind community issues. Candidates are asked to complete the survey, which should take no more than 15 minutes.

Poconos VRO has committed to publishing all responses exactly as submitted to ensure fairness and transparency. Non-responses will also be noted, so voters are fully aware of which candidates chose not to participate.

“This survey is about giving voters the tools they need to make informed choices,” said Rebecca Gallagher, Executive Director of Poconos VRO. “Vacation Rental Homes represent a significant piece of our local economy, but they also raise important questions at the community level. By publishing candidate responses, we’re helping to foster open dialogue and accountability.”

The survey is being distributed to 16 Township Supervisor / Commissioner candidates in the following municipalities:  Coolbaugh, Tobyhanna, Kidder, Tunkhannock, Jackson, Smithfield and Pocono Townships. Results will be made available to the public on the Poconos VRO website and shared through community channels in advance of the election.

View Survey Here

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Media Contact:
Rebecca Gallagher
Executive Director, Poconos VRO
rebecca@PoconosVRO.org | 570-431-9088
PoconosVRO.org

About Poconos VRO
Founded in 2023, the Poconos Association of Vacation Rental Owners (Poconos VRO) is the leading voice for the short-term rental industry in the region. Covering more than 80 municipalities and thousands of STR owners, Poconos VRO advocates for fair regulations, provides education and resources, and supports the economic vitality of the Poconos.

The Poconos Association of Vacation Rental Owners (Poconos VRO) is proud to announce a new sponsorship with Comphy, the industry leader in luxury linens for hospitality, wellness, and vacation rentals.

Known for setting the gold standard in comfort and performance, Comphy products are designed to create guest experiences that feel both indulgent and unforgettable. If you’ve ever stayed somewhere with sheets so good you thought about sneaking them home—there’s a good chance they were Comphy.

As part of this partnership, Poconos VRO members receive exclusive savings on Comphy’s signature linens. This benefit is available now in the Members Section of the Poconos VRO website.

About Comphy
As the inventor and leader of linens for the spa industry, Comphy sets the standard for luxury spa, home, and hospitality linens. Comphy is committed to quality, sustainability, and innovation. Developed for Spa, Designed for Ahh. Learn more at www.comphy.com.

About Poconos VRO
The Poconos Association of Vacation Rental Owners (VRO) is a membership-based organization dedicated to advocating for fair regulation, educating hosts, and building a strong community of vacation rental owners, managers, and industry partners across the Pocono Mountains. Learn more at www.poconosvro.org

The Poconos Association of Vacation Rental Owners (Poconos VRO) is proud to be one of the inaugural recipients of a $20,000 Sustainability Grant from the Right to Rent Collaborative (R2RC) — a national not-for-profit working to empower local short-term rental (STR) associations through funding, education, and advocacy support.

This funding represents a major step forward for Poconos VRO, allowing the organization to build long-term capacity and invest in the infrastructure necessary to continue fighting for fair, balanced, and transparent STR policies across the region.

“As local regulations become more complex and HOAs grow increasingly restrictive, owners and managers need a seat at the table,” said Ricky Cortez, VP of Advocacy for Poconos VRO. “This grant helps us formalize the backbone of our organization — from education and outreach to day-to-day operations — so we can keep showing up for our members and our community.”

The Sustainability Grant is part of R2RC’s first round of funding, made possible by industry leaders including Airbnb, Vrbo, Proper Insurance®, Breezeway, Inhabit®, Avalara, and more.

Join us at an upcoming event or masterclass to see the impact in action:
Register for Events

To learn more about the Right to Rent Collaborative and its grant program, visit: https://lnkd.in/gTCKU-SX

The Poconos Association of Vacation Rental Owners is thrilled to announce its newest sponsor: Avalara, a global leader in automated tax compliance solutions for short-term rentals.

With complex local lodging taxes and township-by-township variations in the Poconos, many hosts struggle to stay compliant. Avalara offers hosts the ability to automate tax filing, track evolving regulations, and reduce the risk of costly mistakes — turning a major pain point into a streamlined part of daily operations.

“Avalara is exactly the kind of sponsor we love to partner with,” said the Poconos VRO leadership team. “Their solutions help small business owners succeed by making the technical stuff simple and stress-free.”

Avalara will also participate in future webinars and education series, helping members better navigate the tax landscape in 2025 and beyond.

Don’t miss upcoming sponsor-led webinars and member meetups:
Register Here

Explore more about Avalara at https://www.avalara.com

The Poconos Association of Vacation Rental Owners (Poconos VRO), the leading voice for the short-term rental industry in the Pocono Mountains, proudly announces the appointment of Rebecca Gallagher as its new Executive Director.

Gallagher, an accomplished hospitality professional with more than 15 years as an award-winning inn owner and decades of experience in tourism marketing and organizational leadership, will lead the association’s mission to advocate for responsible short-term rental policies, support property owners, and build strategic partnerships across the region.

Prior to joining Poconos VRO, Gallagher owned and operated the Historic Smithton Inn, transforming it into a premier bed and breakfast recognized for excellence in guest experience and community engagement. She has also served as Chair of the Discover Lancaster Board of Directors, where she successfully fostered collaboration among hospitality businesses, tourism boards, and municipal stakeholders.

“Rebecca’s proven leadership and passion for independent lodging make her an exceptional choice to guide our organization into its next phase,” said Mark Shay, Co-Founder and President of the Board. “She has an accomplished career that includes being strong advocate for the hospitality industry and as a resident of the area knows the positive impact it brings to the Poconos. She is poised to continue the professionalism we have bring to the vacation homeowners’ community.”

In her new role, Gallagher will oversee daily operations, membership growth, strategic planning, and advocacy efforts on behalf of the Poconos VRO’s members throughout the four-county Poconos region; Monroe, Pike, Wayne and Carbon. She assumes the day-to-day management of this trade association from Ricky Cortez, who held the position on a part-time basis for the past two years. Cortez was instrumental in producing the first-ever Poconos STR Economic Impact Report and hosting the organizations first two Poconos STR Conference, which have grown to be nationally recognized industry conferences.  

“I’m proud of the work we’ve done to position Poconos VRO as the leading voice for short-term rentals in the Poconos,” said Cortez. “As I transition into the role of Vice President of Advocacy, I’m thrilled to welcome Rebecca who brings a powerful combination of energy, proven leadership, and deep regional experience. Her strong community ties and connections within the hospitality industry will take us to the next level—further strengthening our membership and building lasting partnerships across the region.”

“Rebecca Gallagher understands both the opportunities and challenges facing the vacation rental community. Her ability to build consensus and drive strategic initiatives will be a tremendous asset to the Poconos region,” said Chris Barrett, President/CEO of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. “We look forward to growing the partnerships we’ve built to set the bar high for expectations and community relations throughout the region and industry.”

Gallagher’s appointment underscores Poconos VRO’s commitment to enhancing the vacation rental experience for owners and guests alike. Under her leadership, the association aims to expand membership, deepen engagement with local communities, and advocate effectively for policies that balance economic growth and neighborhood quality of life.

Special Offer – Join Now and Save
If you’re considering joining the Poconos VRO, now is a great time to jump in. For a limited time, new members can enjoy two years of membership for just $150. Join today

Poconos VRO is excited to welcome Guest Manual as an official sponsor, supporting vacation rental owners in the Poconos with beautifully branded, easy-to-share digital welcome guides.

In today’s hospitality environment, first impressions matter. Guest Manual gives STR hosts the ability to build professional, customized guides to communicate essential property details, check-in instructions, local recommendations, and house rules — all in one sleek, user-friendly digital format.

The partnership kicks off with an August 6th masterclass hosted by Guest Manual, teaching hosts how to create effective digital guides that reduce guest questions, boost 5-star reviews, and enhance the stay experience. A product demo and exclusive member offer will follow in September.

Secure your spot for the August 6 Masterclass and other upcoming events:
Register Now

️ And don’t forget: the 2026 Poconos STR Conference is coming this March!

️ Save Your Seat

Learn more at: https://guestmanual.com

Poconos VRO is excited to announce Rest Easy Pest Control as our newest sponsor, strengthening our commitment to helping vacation rental owners protect their properties, preserve their reputations, and deliver a top-tier guest experience.

With over two decades of experience in proactive pest management, Rest Easy Pest Control has been a quiet hero in the background of STR operations, keeping unwelcome critters far from five-star reviews. Now, they’re stepping into the spotlight as an educational partner, offering professional guidance on pest prevention and property safety.

Their sponsorship kicks off with a free webinar for Poconos VRO members titled “Protecting Your Property from Invaders” on Thursday, June 12th, 2025. The session will cover seasonal risks, prevention strategies, and must-do maintenance for owners, property managers, and hosts looking to avoid costly infestations.

“Rest Easy Pest Control doesn’t just spray and pray — they teach and prevent,” said the Poconos VRO leadership team. “They’ve already been an asset to our members, and this official partnership brings more value to the table.”

In addition to this month’s masterclass, members will benefit from discounted pest control services, newsletter spotlights, and Rest Easy’s ongoing support of responsible STR practices.

Learn more about Rest Easy Pest Control at: https://www.resteasypestcontrol.com

Good Neighbor Information About Short-Term Rentals and Community Ordinances

Short-term rentals (STRs) play a vital role in the economic and social fabric of the Pocono Mountains region. These properties not only provide a welcoming place for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of our area but also contribute significantly to the local economy, supporting small businesses, funding public services, and sustaining jobs. However, as communities grow and evolve, it becomes essential to strike a balance between the needs of short-term rental owners, their guests, and local residents.

The Impact of STRs on the Pocono Region

Vacation rentals generate substantial economic benefits for the Poconos:

• Boosting the Local Economy: STRs contribute nearly $1.9 billion to the regional GDP, supporting nearly one-third of all jobs in the area. Industries such as education, healthcare, and tourism directly benefit from these contributions.

• Funding Public Services: STRs save taxpayers an average of $1,500 annually by generating tax revenues that fund essential services like schools and public safety. Importantly, these revenues do not increase school enrollment, as STRs attract temporary visitors rather than permanent residents.

• Preserving Property Values: By attracting tourism and ensuring well-maintained properties, STRs help stabilize and even increase property values in our neighborhoods.

Despite these benefits, it is important to address community concerns and ensure that STRs are operated responsibly. The Poconos Association of Vacation Rental Owners (Poconos VRO) is committed to fostering positive relationships through our Good Neighbor Policy, which promotes community values and harmony.

Understanding New STR Regulations

Recent ordinances in the Poconos and across the nation have introduced stricter requirements for short-term rentals, aimed at protecting the character and tranquility of residential neighborhoods. Key provisions include:

• Capacity Limits: Enforcing strict limits on the number of guests allowed on premises at a rental property.
• Parking Restrictions: Restricting the number of vehicles permitted on the premises. No Lawn or street parking. 
• Noise Ordinances: Implementing quiet hours to maintain peace, especially during the day and night.
• Party Bans: Prohibiting large gatherings or events at STR properties.
• Age Restrictions: Requiring a minimum age for renters.
• Light Pollution Guidelines: Limiting excessive outdoor lighting to preserve the natural beauty of the area.

Violations of these ordinances can lead to hefty fines, legal fees, and even the revocation of rental permits. Poconos VRO encourages all stakeholders to understand and comply with these rules to ensure a harmonious community.

Our Commitment to Responsible Hosting

The Poconos VRO actively collaborates with local law enforcement, township committees, and homeowners’ associations to ensure that STRs operate responsibly and fairly. Our members are dedicated to:

• Volunteering time and resources to advocate for practical regulations.
• Promoting guest education to minimize disruptions in neighborhoods.
• Addressing complaints and violations swiftly and effectively.

Our Good Neighbor Policy is central to these efforts, emphasizing mutual respect, accountability, and positive interactions between STR owners, guests, and full-time residents.

Tips for Guests and Hosts

To ensure a seamless experience for all, here are some best practices:

For Guests:

1. Respect House Rules: Abide by noise limits, smoking policies, and other property-specific guidelines.
2. Communicate: Keep open lines of communication with your host.
3. Be Neighborly: Avoid disruptive behavior and respect local residents.
4. Adhere to Parking and Capacity Limits: Ensure compliance with local regulations.
5. Follow Check-Out Procedures: Leave the property clean and secure.

For Hosts:

1. Know the Rules: Stay informed about local STR ordinances.
2. Set Clear Expectations: Communicate guidelines to guests before arrival.
3. Screen Guests: Use platforms that verify guest identities and reviews.
4. Build Neighbor Relationships: Proactively address concerns from residents.
5. Maintain the Property: Conduct regular inspections to ensure safety and quality.

Building a Stronger, Unified Community

The Poconos VRO believes that collaboration and understanding are key to resolving the challenges associated with short-term rentals. By fostering open communication and emphasizing shared values, we aim to:

• Protect the rights of responsible STR owners.
• Promote positive experiences for visitors.
• Preserve the character and charm of our neighborhoods.

We invite local residents, government officials, and community leaders to join us in supporting policies that reflect the economic and social benefits of STRs while addressing concerns through practical, evidence-based regulations.

Join Us in Making a Difference

The Poconos VRO remains dedicated to advocating for the responsible operation of short-term rentals and bridging the gap between stakeholders. Together, we can ensure that the Poconos continue to thrive as a premier destination for visitors while maintaining the quality of life for local residents.

Let’s work together to preserve the vitality and harmony of the Poconos for generations to come.