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From: Grace Wang <br /> To: LPCtestimonv <br /> Subject: Concerns Regarding the Economic Impact of Bill 121 on Local Businesses <br /> Date: Monday,April 15,2024 4:25:17 PM <br /> Aloha Chairperson Lin & Commission Members, <br /> I am writing to express my deep concerns about the potential impact of Bill 121 on local <br /> businesses, particularly those like mine that are directly tied to the vacation rental market. <br /> As the owner of a car rental business, I have observed firsthand that a significant portion of <br /> my clientele consists of guests staying in vacation rentals. This segment of my business is <br /> notjust a number; it represents the livelihood of my family and the ability to support my <br /> employees. <br /> The vacation rental industry plays a crucial role in our local economy, not only by providing <br /> accommodation options for tourists but also by supporting ancillary businesses such as car <br /> rentals, restaurants, and local attractions. The proposed restrictions in Bill 121 threaten to <br /> significantly reduce the number of vacation rental properties available, which in turn could <br /> lead to a substantial decrease in tourists opting for this type of accommodation. This <br /> reduction in vacation rental guests would directly impact my business, potentially resulting <br /> in a loss of over half of our income from tourists. <br /> Given these concerns, I respectfully request that the Planning Commission consider the <br /> following recommendations: <br /> Conduct an economic impact study to fully understand the ramifications of Bill 121 on local <br /> businesses and the broader economy. <br /> Recommend the removal of restrictions about where hosts live and where guests stay, as <br /> long as the owner is in the same building, on the same parcel, or on an adjacent parcel. <br /> Recommend streamlining the registration process for vacation rentals to ensure that it is <br /> not overly burdensome for operators, thereby supporting the continued viability of this <br /> important sector. <br /> It is imperative that we consider the broader economic ecosystem and the <br /> interconnectedness of the vacation rental market with other local businesses. I believe that <br /> with thoughtful consideration and adjustments, we can find a balanced approach that <br /> addresses concerns without undermining the economic contributions of vacation rentals to <br /> our community. <br /> Mahalo for your attention to this matter and for considering the perspectives of local <br /> business owners like myself. <br /> Me ke aloha pumehana, <br /> Mike Cabana <br /> Kailua Kona <br />