2024-04-03 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Hope Stocker

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From: hope stocker To: W PCtesti mony Subject: Urgent Call for Fair and Equitable Treatment in Short-Term Rental Regulations Date: Wednesday,April 3,2024 5:41:45 PM Chairman Dennis Lin Windward Planning Commission County of Hawaii 25 Aupuni St. Unit 1502 Hilo, HI 96720 Aloha Chairman Lin, I am writing to express my concerns regarding the proposed measures in Hawaii Bill 121, specifically the unequal treatment of property owners and operators in the short-term rental sector. As a resident and member of our vibrant community, I believe it is crucial that our regulations foster fairness and support the sustainable growth of our local economy. The current proposal seems to overlook the importance of providing equal opportunities for all property owners, regardless of whether they live on-site or not. This distinction creates an unnecessary divide and could potentially harm the local tourism industry, which is a significant source of income for many families, including mine. I kindly request that the Windward Planning Commission consider recommending the following changes to ensure a more inclusive and equitable approach: We want the planning commission to recommend equal treatment of the property owners who live on-site and operators who do not own the property but live on-site as lessors or caretakers. We want the planning commission to recommend removing dangerous signage requirements and protect operators from the public disclosure of addresses and ownership. We want the planning commission to recommend streamlining the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements like dimensioned drawings and the disclosure of private details of their home. These recommendations aim to address the concerns of enforceability, inequity, and the transformation of neighborhoods, which have been previously expressed by the planning commission. By implementing these changes, we can ensure that our regulations are fair, enforceable, and supportive of both our community's well-being and economic prosperity. I appreciate your time and consideration of these matters. I believe that by working together, we can find solutions that benefit all stakeholders and contribute to the sustainable development of our beloved island.