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From: Heather Korotie <br /> To: LPCtestimony <br /> Subject: Late testimony: Bill 122 <br /> Date: Wednesday,April 17,2024 11:08:21 AM <br /> Aloha Chairperson & Commission Members, <br /> I am reaching out to share my concerns and insights regarding Hawaii County Bill 122,with a <br /> particular emphasis on its potential effects on small farms operating agricultural-tourism <br /> businesses. <br /> The administrative process for establishing B&Bs is a vital pathway for small farms to <br /> diversify their income through agricultural-tourism. This process not only provides a clear <br /> route for these farms to engage in agri-tourism but also offers a more favorable yearly renewal <br /> fee structure compared to TARS,when multiple rooms or accommodations exist on a single <br /> property. The yearly fees for renewing a B&B license are generally less than those for a TAR <br /> when multiple rooms/accommodations exist,making it a more economically viable option for <br /> small farm owners who wish to offer multiple accommodations. <br /> Furthermore,the stigmatization of TARS and their lack of recognition as legitimate businesses <br /> highlighted during the Covid assistance programs—underscores the importance of <br /> maintaining a respected and viable option for residents to pursue agricultural-tourism. It is <br /> crucial that we preserve pathways that support the agricultural community and promote <br /> Hawaii County as a destination for agricultural, sustainable and educational tourism. <br /> Given these considerations, I strongly urge the council to maintain the current administrative <br /> process for establishing B&Bs. I also propose that the council re-evaluate the impact of these <br /> new regulations after a period of time and how they co-exist with bed and breakfast <br /> regulations, allowing for an informed decision based on the stability and growth of the <br /> agricultural-tourism sector. <br /> Mahalo for your thoughtful consideration of these points. I trust that the council will make <br /> decisions that best support the sustainability and prosperity of our agricultural and tourism <br /> communities. <br /> Mahalo, <br /> Heather <br /> Heather Korotie <br /> 808-938-2743 <br /> heatherkorotie&gmail.com <br /> IMPORTANT: THIS AGENT DOES NOT SEND T <br />