HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0675.298 2022-2024From: Jill Cleveland
Sent: Friday, July 5, 2024 4:42 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Urgent Need for Comprehensive Study on Bill 121's Economic Impact
Chairperson Heather Kimball Hawaii County Council County Building 25 Aupuni Street Hilo, Hawaii
96720
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Aloha Chairperson Kimball, ;,s,_._
am writing to express my deep concerns regarding Hawaii Bill 121 and its potential impadt� on - ur
local economy, particularly the vacation rental industry. It has come to my attention that thWindustry
contributes over $1.1 billion to the Big Island's economy. Given this significant economic impact, it
seems highly inappropriate to regulate such a vital sector without first conducting 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 strongly urge that the bill be sent back with a
recommendation to conduct the necessary study and re -work its language accordingly.
Furthermore, it is essential that a member of the industry be included in the discussion when the
commission engages in questions and answers. The absence of industry representation is a significant
concern and a major reason for the public's dissatisfaction with this bill. Including industry voices will
ensure a more balanced and informed approach to regulating this critical sector of our economy.
Mahalo,
Jill Cleveland
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