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From: Kris Adair <br /> To: W PCtesti mony <br /> Subject: Concerns Regarding Bill 121 and Its Impact on Local Families and Kapuna <br /> Date: Monday,April 1,2024 12:05:05 PM <br /> To: <br /> WMestimony(j4hawaiicounty.gov <br /> Subject: Concerns Regarding Bill 121 and Its Impact on Local Families and Kapuna <br /> Chairman Dennis Lin <br /> Windward Planning Commission <br /> County of Hawaii <br /> 25 Aupuni St. <br /> Unit 1502 <br /> Hilo, HI 96720 <br /> Aloha Chairman Lin, <br /> I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding Bill 121 and its potential impact on our <br /> local families and kapuna. As a resident of Hawaii, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles <br /> many in our community face to maintain stable housing and employment. Bill 121, as it <br /> stands, threatens to exacerbate these struggles, potentially causing families and kapuna to <br /> lose their homes and leading tojob losses. <br /> The bill's stringent regulations on short-term rentals could significantly reduce the income <br /> of many homeowners who rely on this source to afford their housing. For some, this <br /> income is what keeps them from falling into financial hardship. Additionally, the restrictions <br /> could lead tojob losses in sectors that support the short-term rental industry, further <br /> harming our local economy. <br /> I urge the Planning Commission to consider the following recommendations to mitigate <br /> the negative impacts of Bill 121: <br /> Conduct an economic impact study to fully understand how the bill will affect <br /> homeowners, workers, and the broader community. <br /> Recommend the removal of restrictions about where hosts live and where guests stay, as <br /> long as the owner is in the same building, on the same parcel, or on an adjacent parcel. <br /> Recommend streamlining the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements, <br /> making it easier for homeowners to comply without jeopardizing their privacy or livelihood. <br /> These measures would help protect our local families and kapuna from the unintended <br /> consequences of Bill 121, while still addressing the concerns that led to the bill's <br /> introduction. <br /> I appreciate your consideration of these recommendations and hope that we can find a <br /> balanced approach that safeguards our community's well-being. <br /> Mahalo nui loa, <br />