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From: schneckenburoerCcbcomcast.net <br /> To: LPCtestimonv <br /> Subject: Concerns Regarding the Impact of Bill 121 on Tax Revenue and Local Economy <br /> Date: Monday,April 15,2024 11:45:21 AM <br /> Chairperson Barbara Defranco <br /> Leeward Planning Commission <br /> County of Hawaii <br /> 25 Au uni St. <br /> Unit 1502 <br /> Hilo, HI 96720 <br /> Aloha Chairperson Lin & Commission Members, <br /> I am writing to express my concerns about the potential impacts of Hawaii Bill <br /> 121 on our local economy, specifically regarding the tax revenue generated from <br /> vacation rentals. As a resident and member of our community, I understand the <br /> importance of balancing the needs for regulation with the economic benefits <br /> that vacation rentals bring to our island. <br /> Vacation rentals have become a significant source of tax revenue for Hawaii <br /> County, contributing to our localgovernment's ability to fund essential services <br /> and infrastructure improvements. By imposing overly restrictive measures on <br /> vacation rentals, we risk reducing this vital stream of income. This reduction <br /> could lead to increased taxes for residents or cuts to important communit <br /> services. <br /> Moreover, the vacation rental industry supports a wide range of jobs and <br /> businesses in our community. From cleaning services to local tour operators, <br /> many small businesses depend on the tourism that vacation rentals bring to our <br /> island. The proposed regulations could have a ripple effect, harming not just <br /> vacation rental owners but also many other local businesses that rely on tourism. <br /> Given these concerns, I respectfully request that the Planning Commission <br /> consider the following recommendations: <br /> 1. Conduct an economic impact study to fully understand how Bill 121 might <br /> affect tax revenue and the local econom . <br /> Recommend streamlining the registration process for vacation rentals to <br /> ensure compliance without imposing undue burdens onoperators. <br /> Recommend removing any regulations that could unduly impact the tax <br /> revenue generated from vacation rentals, ensuring that our local economy <br /> remains strong and vibrant. <br /> Our community thrives when we find the right balance between regulation and <br />