Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0675.299 2022-2024P / Paw f5i 11 121 Cow 6z From: Justin Cleveland Sent: Friday, July S, 2024 2:08 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 Hilg,Hawai'i 96720 C-' .,_.. c 3 Aloha Chairperson Kimball, - I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding Hawaii Bill 121 and its potential impadbs on__oiair local economy, particularly the vacation rental industry. It has come to my attention that th s industry 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, ustin Cleveland Sent from my !Phone 15 conlill. No. Iqq Ref. ©: