2024-04-06 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Bob & Kathy Fitts

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From: Bob&Kathy Fitts To: LPCtestimony Subject: Concerns Regarding Bill 121 and Its Impact on Local Economy and Livelihoods Date: Saturday,April 6,2024 7:33:45 AM Aloha Leeward Planning Commission, My husband and I are 69 years old and have been proud residents of Kailua-Kona since 1982. We own a condo on Alii Drive, which we operate as a registered full-time vacation rental. This venture not only supplements our income but also supports local workers through contracted housekeeping and handyman services. We are writing to express our strong opposition to Bill 121 due to the restrictions it imposes on the vacation rental industry, which is crucial to the island's economy. Tourism is the lifeblood of our island, and the taxes we pay, including General Excise Tax, Transient Accommodations Tax, Property Tax, and Income Tax, significantly contribute to the State and County's revenue. The proposed restrictions in Bill 121 threaten to undermine this vital industry, potentially leading to a decrease in these tax revenues that are essential for the island's services and infrastructure. We understand the Planning Commission's concerns regarding enforceability, and the transformation of neighborhoods. However, we believe that the solution lies not in imposing restrictive measures but in finding a balanced approach that respects private property rights while addressing these concerns. To this end, we respectfully request the Planning Commission to consider the following recommendations: Conduct an economic impact study to fully understand the implications of Bill 121 on the local economy and the vacation rental industry. Streamline the registration process for vacation rentals to make it more efficient and less invasive for property owners. Recommend the removal of any rules or regulations that already exist in law, such as quiet hours and parking requirements, to avoid redundancy and overregulation. The vacation rental industry is not only a source of income for many families like ours but also a key component of the island's tourism-driven economy. We urge the Planning Commission to consider the broader economic impact and seek a more balanced approach that supports both the community and the vacation rental industry. Mahalo for your consideration.