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From: David(cbhawkswood.net <br /> To: LPCtestimonv <br /> Subject: Urgent Concerns Regarding the Impact of Bill 121 <br /> Date: Thursday,April 18, 2024 12:01:33 PM <br /> To: Leeward Planning Commission <br /> County of Hawai'i <br /> April 18, 2024 <br /> Subject: Urgent Concerns Regarding the Impact of Bill 121 <br /> Aloha Chairman Dela Cruz and Chairman Rhoads, <br /> I am writing to express my deep concerns about the potential impacts of Hawaii Bill <br /> 121 on our community, particularly regarding the availability of month-to-month <br /> rentals in Hawaii. This bill, if passed, could significantly limit housing options for <br /> those in need of temporary or transitional housing solutions. <br /> Our islands have always been a place of aloha, where we support each other, <br /> especially during times of need. Events like the Red Hill Crisis, the Lahaina fires, and <br /> the eruption of Kilauea have shown us the importance of having access to temporary, <br /> furnished housing. These unfortunate events displaced thousands of our residents, <br /> who then relied on mid and short-term rentals to find safe and immediate shelter. <br /> As a resident of Kea'au, I have witnessed firsthand the benefits that short-term rentals <br /> bring to Puna, not only in terms of economic growth but also in fostering a sense of <br /> aloha and community among visitors and residents alike. <br /> The proposed bill threatens to decimate an essential segment of our housing market, <br /> leaving many without options during critical times. This includes not only those <br /> directly affected by disasters but also inter-island residents coming for medical <br /> treatment, traveling nurses, emergency contractors, temporary military personnel, <br /> students, and even our own family and friends who may need a place to stay while <br /> transitioning or visiting. <br /> It is crucial that we find a balance that allows for the regulation of rentals without <br /> eliminating the vital resource that month-to-month rentals provide for our <br /> community. I urge you to consider the broader implications of this bill on our <br /> residents' ability to find temporary housing solutions during times of need. <br /> Mahalo for your attention to this matter. I hope for your support in finding a solution <br /> that keeps the spirit of aloha alive for all residents and visitors of Hawaii. <br /> Me ke aloha pumehana, <br /> David Glaser <br /> 15-2074 7th Ave <br /> Keaau, HI 96749 <br />