HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0348.032 2020-2022 . -2'
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TESTIMONY IN SUPPORT OF RES. 179-21
FROM: Brandee Menino,CEO,Hope Services Hawaii, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, Sep 7,2021
Thank you for the opportunity to testify in support of Res. 179-21,which would authorize exemptions for certain
code requirements for the Honua`ula affordable housing project in Kona. Providing such exemptions for truly
affordable housing projects would remove a barrier to the construction of homes for people who are priced out of
the housing market in Kona. Among those who are impacted, Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, children,
people with disabling conditions, and single mothers are disproportionately impacted. Additionally, the vast
majority of the people who are being priced out are long-term(20+year)residents of Hawaii.
The 2019 Hawaii Housing Plan Study estimates that our County will need an additional 13,303 housing units by
2025 to meet housing demand, and some estimates are even higher. Our housing shortage is not new, but the
increase in speculation and investment buying has led to shrinking inventory of affordable housing, and higher
rents for those who can still afford it. Our housing locators, who serve as the bridge between people overcoming
homelessness and landlords, are having doors slammed in their faces as they search for units that will accept the
people we serve. As a direct result of the lack of available units, people are spending more time in shelter, and by
extension,those waiting for shelter are spending more time on the street.
It is imperative that we invest in truly affordable housing that will remain affordable in perpetuity. Therefore, I
urge you to support Res. 179-21.
Mahalo nui for your consideration.
lin�erely,/, `l
randee Menino,
Chief Executive Officer
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Ref. Gate SEP e 8 2021