I can't say for sure, but I don't think AirBnB is actually intending to make the argument you give. My read of what they want to argue is more along the lines o

I can't say for sure, but I don't think AirBnB is actually intending to make the argument you give. My read of what they want to argue is more along the lines of: AirBnB is good for the city, because it brings in tax revenue, which helps fund public services. Therefore, please vote against the proposition that would restrict AirBnB rentals. The tone-deaf part is just the way the ad campaign making that argument came off. The format of a letter saying effectively, "you're welcome for the tax dollars, love AirBnB", ending with a comment about how maybe libraries can use the money to stay open later, was probably intended to come off as cutesy, but was instead perceived as smug and passive-aggressive by at least a portion of the public.