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From: Suzanne Sternlucht <br /> To: WPCtestimonv <br /> Subject: In opposition to Bill 121/Urgent Concerns <br /> Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 9:46:59 AM <br /> REGARDING BILL 121 AND ITS 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 and property owner in Hawaii, I believe it is crucial <br /> to address the issues of enforceability, inequity, and the transformation of neighborhoods <br /> that this bill may bring about. <br /> Firstly, the enforceability of Bill 121 raises significant concerns. Without sufficient human <br /> resources, the Planning Department may struggle to effectively implement and enforce the <br /> new regulations, leading to uneven application and potential confusion among property <br /> owners. <br /> Secondly, the bill introduces a level of inequity among property owners. By imposing <br /> different restrictions based on the owner's residency status, it unfairly discriminates against <br /> those who may not live on-site but still maintain a strong connection and responsibility <br /> towards their property and the community. <br /> Lastly, the transformation of neighborhoods under Bill 121 could have unintended <br /> consequences. By restricting short-term rentals, we risk losing the unique character and <br /> vibrancy that these accommodations bring to our communities. Moreover, the potential <br /> decrease in tourism revenue could negatively affect local businesses and the overall <br /> economy. <br /> In light of these concerns, I respectfully request the Planning Commission to consider the <br /> following recommendations: <br /> Recommend the removal of restrictions about where hosts live and where guests stay, <br /> ensuring fairness and flexibility for all property owners. <br /> Recommend streamlining the registration process to make it more accessible and less <br /> burdensome for property owners. <br /> Recommend conducting an affordable housing study to better understand the impact of <br /> short-term rentals on housing availability and affordability in our communities. <br /> These measures would address the key issues of enforceability, inequity, and the <br /> transformation of neighborhoods, while also ensuring that the regulations are fair, <br /> effective, and beneficial to all stakeholders. <br />