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From: Kova Kona <br /> To: WPCtestimonv <br /> Subject: Community-Proposed Amendments for a Fairer Bill 121 <br /> Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 11:40:21 AM <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 /> As a concerned member of our vibrant community, I am writing to share our collective <br /> thoughts on Bill 121. We appreciate the efforts to regulate short-term vacation rentals, but <br /> we believe that certain aspects of the bill could be improved to ensure fairness and <br /> effectiveness. Our community has come together to propose the following changes, which <br /> we believe will address the concerns of all stakeholders involved. <br /> First, we request the Planning Commission to consider the removal of the affidavit <br /> requirement. This requirement could potentially criminalize homeowners for unintentional <br /> errors, creating an atmosphere of fear rather than compliance. <br /> Second, we believe that defining short-term rentals as under 30 days is essential for clarity <br /> and fairness. This definition aligns with common practices in the industry and provides a <br /> clear guideline for both operators and regulators. <br /> Third, we urge the commission to recommend equal treatment of property owners who <br /> live on-site and operators who do not own the property but live on-site as lessors or <br /> caretakers. This ensures that all parties involved in providing accommodations are subject <br /> to the same rules and regulations, promoting fairness and equity. <br /> Additionally, we recommend that the Planning Commission conduct an economic impact <br /> study to fully understand the implications of Bill 121 on our local economy. This study <br /> should consider the effects on small business owners, the tourism industry, and the overall <br /> economic health of our community. <br /> By implementing these changes, we believe that Bill 121 can be transformed into a more <br /> equitable and effective piece of legislation that respects the rights of property owners while <br /> addressing the concerns of the community. <br /> Mahalo for considering our proposals. We are committed to working with the Planning <br /> Commission and other stakeholders to find a balanced solution that benefits our entire <br /> community. <br /> Me ke aloha pumehana, <br /> Victor Wang <br /> adminC64oyakona.us <br />