2024-04-02 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Karen Sandler Testimony

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From: Karen Hill To: WPCtestimonv Subject: Opposition to Bill 121.Addressing the Real Causes of the Housing Crisis Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 1:01:19 PM Chairman Dennis Lin Windward Planning Commission County of Hawaii 25 Aupuni St. Unit 1502 Hilo, HI 96720 Aloha Chairman Lin, am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 121, which I believe unfairly targets vacation rental owners like myself in Kailua Kona, without addressing the root causes of the housing crisis on the Big Island. The focus of this legislation on vacation rentals overlooks the broader, more complex issues, particularly the restrictive government regulations that stifle development and renovation efforts. Instead of trying to lay blame, my suggestion is create solutions that allow solution for the real problem -too many barriers to building affordable housing.(or really any housing) Vacation rentals contribute significantly to the local economy, especially in tourist-centric areas like the Big Island. By providing unique accommodations, we support local businesses, generate tax revenue, and offer tourists an alternative to traditional hotel stays. This diversity in lodging options is crucial for a healthy tourism sector, which is the backbone of our island's economy. Until you come up with a viable alternative to tourism, it is what helps pay the bills. The real issue at hand is the restrictive regulatory environment that hampers the development of new housing and the renovation of existing structures. These regulations drive up costs, discourage investment, and limit the supply of affordable housing. Addressing these restrictive barriers would be a more effective approach to solving the housing crisis than penalizing vacation rental owners, who, in fact, add to our economy. Therefore, I respectfully request the Planning Commission to consider the following recommendations: Streamline the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements, making it easier for homeowners to understand the requirements and comply. Conduct an economic impact study to fully understand the contributions of vacation rentals to the local economy and the potential effects of Bill 121. It is your responsibility to look at the downstream effects of what you are proposing to do. Most importantly, Clean your own house of restrictive legislation to building. By focusing on these areas, we can work towards a more balanced and effective solution that addresses the housing crisis without undermining the tourism sector or infringing on the rights of property owners. Mahalo