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From: Khymberly Catton <br /> To: W PCtesti mono <br /> Subject: Bill 121 <br /> Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 10:09:00 AM <br /> To: <br /> WPCtestimony.hawaiicounty gov <br /> Subject: Urgent Need for Reevaluation of Bill 121's Impact on Local Communities <br /> Chairman Dennis Lin Windward Planning Commission County of Hawaii 25 Aupuni St. Unit <br /> 1502 Hilo, HI 96720 <br /> Aloha Chairman Lin, <br /> I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding Hawaii Bill 121 and its potential impact <br /> on our local communities. As a resident of Hawai'i, I have witnessed firsthand the <br /> importance of short-term rentals in supporting our local economy and providing <br /> affordable housing solutions for many families, including my own. <br /> One of the primary issues with Bill 121 is its lack of data to support the drastic measures it <br /> proposes. The bill seems to be a solution in search of a problem, with no substantial <br /> evidence tojustify the economic loss and emotional duress it will cause to hundreds of <br /> families. It is imperative that the County conduct a comprehensive economic impact study <br /> before moving forward with such legislation. This study should evaluate the bill's effects on <br /> local livelihoods, housing affordability, and the overall economy. <br /> Furthermore, the bill's approach to regulating short-term rentals raises concerns about <br /> enforceability, inequity, and the transformation of neighborhoods. It is crucial that the <br /> Planning Commission recommend streamlining the registration process and eliminating <br /> invasive requirements that do not contribute to the public good. Additionally, the removal <br /> of dangerous signage requirements and the protection of operators from the public <br /> disclosure of addresses and ownership are necessary to ensure the safety and privacy of <br /> our community members. <br /> Lastly, I urge the Planning Commission to consider the recommendations for consumer <br /> protection requirements for platforms with significant market share. These include ensuring <br /> accurate search results, true reviews, and accountability and safety measures that protect <br /> both hosts and guests. <br /> Our community deserves regulations that are fair, enforceable, and based on solid data. I <br /> kindly request that the Planning Commission take these concerns into consideration and <br /> recommend the necessary changes to Bill 121. <br /> Mahalo for your attention to this matter. <br /> Khymberly Catton 15-1512 26 Ave Keaau Hawai'i 96749 808-936-2012 <br />