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From: Cole Goodrich <br /> To: W PCtesti mono <br /> Subject: Urgent Plea for Fair Regulation of Short-Term Rentals <br /> Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 3:32:00 PM <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 /> My name is Cole Allen Goodrich, and I am writing to you from a place of deep concern <br /> and personal experience regarding the proposed changes under Hawaii Bill 121. 1 was once <br /> homeless, a situation that many in our beautiful state find themselves in, due to various <br /> circumstances. It was through the opportunity to co-host an Airbnb that I found stable <br /> housing and a means to support myself. This letter is notjust for me but for many others <br /> who find themselves in similar situations, where short-term rentals offer notjust a roof over <br /> their heads but a chance at a better life. <br /> The proposed regulations under Bill 121, while well-intentioned, overlook the positive <br /> impact that short-term rentals have on individuals like myself. The requirement for hosts to <br /> live on-site or the restrictions on where guests can stay severely limit the flexibility that <br /> many of us rely on to make ends meet. It is essential to consider the diverse ways in which <br /> people utilize these platforms to support themselves and their families. <br /> Therefore, I humbly request the Planning Commission to consider the following: <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, it <br /> is an overreach to dictate where they can and cannot sleep. <br /> Recommend streamlining the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements <br /> like dimensioned drawings and the disclosure of private details of their home. <br /> Recommend removing dangerous signage requirements and protect operators from the <br /> public disclosure of addresses and ownership. <br /> These recommendations aim to balance the need for regulation with the reality of those <br /> who depend on short-term rentals for their livelihood and housing. By considering these <br /> changes, the Commission can help ensure that people like me, who have found a lifeline <br /> through co-hosting, can continue to thrive. <br /> Mahalo for your time and consideration of these matters. I believe that together, we can <br /> find a solution that respects the needs of all HawalTs residents. <br /> Me ka ha'aha'a, <br />