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David Marzocchi <br /> 76-6257 Koko Olua Way <br /> Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 <br /> April2, 2024 <br /> The Windward Planning Commission <br /> 25 Aupuni St. Hilo, HI 96720 <br /> Re: Bill 121 Relating to TAR's <br /> Dear Commission Members, <br /> write to you today to protest the proposed amendments related to TAR's. Mywife and I are <br /> Local residents and property owners who have managed and operated vacation rentals <br /> here in Kona for over 10 years. We have done our best to comply with all related laws and <br /> regulations despite the constant state of flux and confusion. We are respectful and take <br /> pride in our properties and have never had any issues with neighbors or law enforcement. <br /> We are simple people just trying to survive and supplement our income. Now, here comes <br /> the County again with new and more onerous regulations and fees that we must review, <br /> execute, and ultimately be in compliance with. I feel like the County representatives have <br /> Lost sight of what's important and what drives our local economy. Tourism and all <br /> associated lodging and services drive our economy. Always will. Despite this fact I don't <br /> see our local representatives doing anything constructive to recharge and promote the <br /> alternative lodging options that vacation rentals provide. All we hear is negativity and <br /> everything that is wrong with vacation rentals. All of it is based on innuendo and a small <br /> minority of"squeaky wheels"that overstate the reality of the situation. I have yet to see any <br /> facts or truths with associated evidence. <br /> The proposed regulations and actions are another example of government overreach with <br /> the veiled goal of eliminating vacation rentals altogether. This is just wrong and simply <br /> does not represent the interests of local property owners. <br /> Ultimately, increased regulation of the already overregulated vacation rental industry is not <br /> going to improve the housing availability or affordability crisis and it will certainly contribute <br /> to a decline in "affordable"tourism options and the economic benefit that goes with them. <br />