HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0086.015 2020-2022 P/Fc
billr
COW.86
From: balesb001
Sent: Monday, February 01, 2021 10:53 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: PROPOSED BILL 18
I am writing in STRONG OPPOSITION to Bill 18.
The only issue here is the tax that was imposed last year on LUXURY HOMES is just that, a tax. The bill was passed
because it was determined the County was in dire need of this revenue.
To now say, "We should have had time to really evaluate the fairness of[his] tax. It's easy to go against people who
are rich" strongly suggests that the revenue is/was not needed and/or some knee-jerk reaction to circumstances at the
time.
Trying to convolute the issue with assertions that last year's bill would (has?) cut into the owners of LUXURY
HOMES charitable giving is ludicrous. To further convolute the issue by giving LUXURY PROPERTY owners the
option to write off that EXTRA tax if they provide proof they donated the amount to a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit
that benefits Hawaii County residents or to a county-sponsored homelessness initiatives is also ludicrous. As an
administrative point, I am sure the Council is also considering how it intends to pay for the costs associated with
ensuring the LUXURY PROPERTY owners are compliant, have submitted acceptable proof, etc.
It is mind boggling that the Council appears to be now saying the County does not need the revenue generated by the
LUXURY HOME tax for its County needs.. Individuals inclined to donate to charitable organizations do so, and will
continue to do so, because of personal convictions, and certainly do not need anyone to tell them to, "put their money
where their mouth is."
AGAIN, I AM IN STRONG OPPOSITION BILL 18.
BRIDGIT M.L. LEE LOY BALES
HILO I-II 96720
-11.6
Comm. No. 414 AO
Ref.To: P Irt
Ref. Date FER - 2 2021