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From: Kathleen Lisa <br /> To: W PCtesti mono <br /> Subject: Bill121 <br /> Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 11:56:52 AM <br /> Subject: The Vital Role of Resident-Hosted AirBnBs in Our Family's Life <br /> Chairman Dennis Lin <br /> Windward Planning Commission <br /> County of Hawai'i <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 the proposed changes under Hawaii Bill <br /> 121, which directly impacts resident-hosted AirBnBs like ours. Our experience as resident- <br /> hosts has been overwhelmingly positive, not just for our family but also for the local economy <br /> and the unique experience we provide to our guests. <br /> Operating a resident-hosted AirBnB has been a lifeline for our family. It has enabled us to pay <br /> our mortgage, cover essential bills, and avoid further depletion of our emergency funds. This <br /> additional income stream has provided us with financial security, allowing us to spend quality, <br /> stress-free time as a family. It has also been crucial in covering medical supplies for our <br /> daughter, who has Type 1 diabetes, and allowing one parent to stay home as the primary <br /> caregiver. <br /> Beyond our family, our AirBnB contributes to the local economy. We shop locally, hire local <br /> handymen, and cleaners, thereby supporting our community. Our guests receive a personal <br /> and authentic experience, seeing the love and creativity we put into our home, which contrasts <br /> with the impersonal nature of commercial hotels. <br /> Given these points, I respectfully request the Planning Commission to consider the following <br /> recommendations: <br /> Remove intrusive reporting requirements that could jeopardize the operation of resident- <br /> hosted AirBnBs. <br /> Recommend streamlining the registration process to support resident-hosts better. <br /> Encourage the County to conduct an economic impact study to understand the positive <br /> contributions of resident-hosted AirBnBs. <br /> These changes would ensure that resident-hosted AirBnBs can continue to provide significant <br /> economic and personal benefits to their operators and the broader community. <br /> Mahalo for considering my perspective on this important issue. <br /> Me ke aloha pumehana, <br /> Kathleen L Nemec <br />