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From: Dave Cropper <br /> To: W PCtesti mono <br /> Subject: Urgent Need for Fairness and Clarity in Short-Term Rental Regulations <br /> Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 10:56:42 AM <br /> Chairman Dennis Lin <br /> Windward Planning Commission <br /> County of Hawaii <br /> 25 Aupuni St. <br /> Unit 1502 <br /> Hilo, HI 96720 <br /> Aloha Chairman Lin, <br /> I am writing to express my concerns regarding the proposed changes under Hawaii Bill 121, <br /> specifically focusing on the need for fairness and clarity in the regulation of short-term <br /> rentals. As a resident deeply invested in the well-being of our community, I believe it is <br /> crucial to address the issues of Enforceability, Inequity, and the Transformation of <br /> Neighborhoods that have been highlighted by the planning commission. <br /> Firstly, the enforceability of the current regulations poses a significant challenge. Without <br /> clear guidelines and a streamlined registration process, it becomes difficult for property <br /> owners to comply, leading to unintentional violations. I urge the planning commission to <br /> recommend streamlining the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements, <br /> such as dimensioned drawings and the disclosure of private details of their home. <br /> Secondly, the proposed bill introduces inequity among property owners. It is essential to <br /> ensure equal treatment of property owners who live on-site and operators who do not <br /> own the property but live on-site as lessors or caretakers. This fairness is fundamental to <br /> maintaining a balanced and inclusive community. <br /> Lastly, the transformation of neighborhoods is a concern that cannot be overlooked. <br /> Regulations should not restrict where hosts live and where guests stay, as long as the <br /> owner is in the same building, on the same parcel, or on an adjacent parcel. Overreach in <br /> dictating living arrangements disrupts the fabric of our neighborhoods and infringes on <br /> private property rights. <br /> In light of these concerns, I recommend that the County conduct an affordable housing <br /> study to better understand the impact of short-term rentals on our housing market. This <br /> study would provide valuable data to inform more balanced and effective regulations. <br /> Thank you for considering my perspective on this matter. I believe that with thoughtful <br /> consideration and adjustments, we can achieve regulations that are fair, enforceable, and <br /> supportive of both our community's character and its economic well-being. <br /> Mahalo, <br /> Warren Cropper <br /> 68-1125 N Kaniku Dr, Kamuela, HI 96743 <br /> 9492027890 <br />