2024-04-15 Bill 121 Lisa May Wade

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From: Lisa May To: LPCtestimony Cc: mateo wadeCalamail.com Subject: Urgent Plea for Reconsideration of Bill 121"s Impact on Local Families Date: Monday,April 15,2024 2:06:36 PM Chairperson Barbara Defranco Leeward Planning Commission County of Hawaii 25 Aupuni St. Unit 1502 Hilo, HI 96720 Aloha Chairperson Lin & Commission Members, I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 121 currently under consideration in Hawaii. This bill proposes imposing daily fines of $10,000 on Airbnbs, which I believe will have detrimental effects on the local residents and the tourism industry on the Big Island. First and foremost, it is important to recognize that the majority of Airbnb owners on the Big Island are local residents who rely on this source of income to sustain themselves and their families. These individuals have invested their time, effort, and resources into creating comfortable and welcoming homes for tourists, catering to their diverse needs. By penalizing these hardworking local residents, Bill 121 not only threatens their livelihood but also undermines the unique experience that tourists seek when staying in Airbnb accommodations. Airbnbs offer an alternative option for families and adventure seekers visiting the Big Island, as well as displaced families or contract workers that are here for a short period of time, allowing them to immerse themselves in the local culture and community. Unlike hotels, which often lack the personal touch and connection to the local environment, Airbnbs provide an opportunity for tourists to experience the island from the perspective of residents. This not only benefits the tourists but also fosters a sense of community engagement and cultural exchange between visitors and locals. Furthermore, it is worth noting that hotels, as major players in the tourism industry, have a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of the local community. Rather than burdening Airbnb owners with exorbitant fines, it would be more appropriate for hotels to allocate resources towards providing low-income housing options for local families. Given that hotels are not always operating at full capacity, utilizing their vacant rooms to address the housing needs of the community would be a more equitable solution. This approach would not only alleviate the pressure on local residents but also demonstrate the commitment of the hospitality sector in supporting the welfare of the island's inhabitants. Additionally, if the goal of local public leaders is to retain residents and prevent migration to other areas, it is essential to explore ways to create a more affordable way of life in Hawaii. Skyrocketing housing prices and the cost of living have forced many locals to seek more affordable options elsewhere. By implementing policies that promote affordable