HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0675.439 2022-2024From: Madeleine Loewen
Sent: Monday, August 19, 2024 7:54 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Request to Reevaluate Hawaii Bill 121
Chairperson Heather Kimball
Hawaii County Council
County Building
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Aloha Chairperson Kimball,
I am writing, once again, to express my concerns about Hawaii Bill 121 and its potential negative
impact on our community. One major issue is that it would immediately make anyone renting
unhosted short-term rentals for 30 to 180 days illegal. As seen in Honolulu when Bill 41 was
overturned in 2023, this can be considered unconstitutional and could lead to costly legal battles,
which the county is likely to lose. And, given how passionate and prevalent the STVR community is, it
will be persued.
Additionally, anyone who rents a home long-term to an on -site host and rents an attached ohana
short-term will also be affected. These homeowners will have no pathway to register for a permit,
effectively ending a vital source of income for them. Many families rent because they cannot afford
the rising costs of home ownership. Please reconsider restricting their ability to increase their
income.
Another significant problem is that this bill will outlaw renting unique structures like tiny homes and
yurts, with severe penalties including fines up to $10,000. This blanket ban will unfairly hurt those who
rely on these alternative accommodations to make ends meet. It is also apparent that these less
conventional rentals are hugely popular with tourists. Abandoning these will remove a whole
demographic of adventure -seeking tourists from the population of visitors.
Before moving forward with Bill 121, 1 strongly urge the County Council to wait for the outcome of the
economic impact study. The findings will provide much -needed insight into how these changes will
affect our community.
Finally, the County Council has yet to identify a significant number of complaints or adverse impacts
from hosted rentals. Therefore, it is difficult to see why such sweeping changes are necessary.
Mahalo,
Madeleine Loewen
PO Box 235
8082845731
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