2024-04-01 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Garrett Steinke Testimony

Home

From: Garrett Steinke To: WPCtestimony Subject: Concerns Regarding the Impact of Bill 121 on Hardworking Families Date: Monday,April 1,2024 12:32:05 PM Aloha Chairman Lin, My name is Garrett Steinke, and I am a dedicated high-voltage electrician for Helco in Kailua Kona. Alongside my wife, who owns and operates a small indoor play space for children, we're doing our best to provide a stable and nurturing environment for our four children. Ourjourney to improve our living situation led us to purchase a house that had been neglected and was known for illicit drug activities. Over four years, with my own hands, I transformed this house in the evenings and weekends, after long days of work. This transformation was notjust physical; it was a commitment to my family's future and the betterment of our community. The completion of this project allowed us to begin renting it out on Airbnb, which in turn, has enabled us to make much needed income plus contribute significantly to state and county taxes, while also providing a welcoming space for visitors. This endeavor was not supported by the county or state; it was the result of years of personal sacrifice and investment. The prospect of being able to short term rent this property was the motivation behind undertaking such a significant project. Bill 121, with its current stipulations, threatens to undermine the efforts and investments of homeowners like myself. The bill's stringent regulations could deter individuals from taking on similar projects, leaving properties neglected and reducing the availability of unique accommodations for visitors. In light of this, I respectfully request the Planning Commission to consider: Removing restrictions on where hosts and guests can reside, ensuring property owners can make use of their entire property. Recommending streamlining the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements. Recommending removing dangerous signage requirements and protecting operators from the public disclosure of addresses and ownership. These recommendations aim to support homeowners who have invested in their properties and the community, ensuring that their efforts are not in vain. It is crucial to find a balance that allows for regulation without stifling the initiative and hard work of local families. Mahalo for your consideration and for supporting the dreams and endeavors of homeowners in our community. Me ka mahalo nui, Garrett Steinke 73-4177 Malino PI. Kailua Kona 96740 HI 7609372938