HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0675.248 2022-2024Dili (2I
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From: Wata Tukuafu
Sent: Friday, July 5, 2024 3:21 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Bill 121: Need for a comprehensive study ti C-) ,
Chairperson Heather Kimball Hawaii County Council County Building 25 Aupuni Slffeet-�,-
Hilo, Hawaii 96720 =' - _-
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Aloha Chairperson Kimball, `==
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I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding Hawaii Bill 121 and its potential
impacts on our local economy, particularly the vacation rental industry. This industry is a
significant contributor to the Big Island, providing more than $1.1 billion in economic
impact. It is alarming that such a substantial sector could be regulated without a
comprehensive, independent, and academically rigorous economic impact study.
During the Leeward Planning Commission meeting, which lasted over eight hours, you
agreed to conduct this crucial study. However, the current timeline does not allow for a
detailed evaluation of this complex and impactful bill. Therefore, I urge you to recommend
sending the bill back for a thorough study and to rework its language to ensure it
accurately reflects the needs and concerns of all stakeholders.
Moreover, it is vital to include a member of the industry in discussions about the bill. The
absence of industry representation has been a significant source of frustration for the
public. Their insights and experiences are essential to fully understand the bill's
implications and to develop fair and effective regulations.
strongly believe that taking these steps will lead to a more informed and balanced
approach to regulating the vacation rental industry, benefiting our community as a whole.
Mahalo,
Ma'ata Tukuafu PO Box 993 Kamuela HI 96743 808-895-7896
Coinna. No �•
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