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From: Kathy Fitts <br /> To: LPCtestimony <br /> Subject: Urgent Need for Comprehensive Study on Bill 121"s Economic Impact <br /> Date: Saturday,May 18,2024 10:57:35 AM <br /> Chairperson Barbara Defranco <br /> Leeward Planning Commission <br /> West Hawaii Civic Center <br /> Council Chambers, Building A <br /> 75-5044 Ane Keohokaloe Highway <br /> Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 <br /> Aloha Chairperson Defranco, <br /> I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding Hawaii Bill 121 and its potential impact <br /> on our local economy, particularly the vacation rental industry. This industry is notjust a <br /> small part of our island's economy; it contributes more than $1.1 billion in economic impact <br /> to the Big Island. Given this significant contribution, it is alarming that such sweeping <br /> regulations are being considered without a comprehensive, independent, and academically <br /> rigorous economic impact study. <br /> During the Leeward Planning Commission meeting, Heather Kimball acknowledged the <br /> necessity of conducting this study. This acknowledgment underscores the complexity and <br /> potential ramifications of Bill 121 on our community and economy. It is imperative that we <br /> take the time to fully understand these impacts before moving forward with any regulatory <br /> changes. <br /> Furthermore, the current process does not allow for a detailed evaluation of the bill's many <br /> facets, highlighting the need to send it back with a strong recommendation for a thorough <br /> study and revision of its language. Additionally, the absence of industry representation in <br /> discussions is a significant oversight. Including a member from the vacation rental industry <br /> in these conversations is crucial to ensure that all perspectives are considered and to <br /> address the public's concerns effectively. <br /> I urge you to reconsider the approach to Bill 121 and to prioritize a comprehensive study <br /> and inclusive dialogue. Our community deserves a well-thought-out decision-making <br /> process that considers all stakeholders and the long-term health of our economy. <br /> My husband and I are now 69 years old and have lived in Kailua-Kona since 1982. We use <br /> our one bedroom Ali'i Drive condo as a vacation rental to supplement our income. We <br /> also contract numerous service personnel to upkeep the condo. For they, as well as we, to <br /> lose this income would be most unfortunate, causing many to have severe economic <br />