HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0675.523 2022-2024From: Lolita Coloteniuc
Sent: Sunday, September 29, 2024 6:55 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Testimony in Support of Responsible Short -Term Rentals
Dear Hawaii County PCPLUD Committee,
I am writing to express my strong support for the continuation and responsible expansion of short-term rentals in Hawaii
County, which will be discussed on Wednesday, October 2, at 9:00 AM. As a family of three, we cherish the time we
spend on the island several times a year, and we believe in sharing the unique beauty and culture of Hawaii with visitors
from around the world. Hosting through Airbnb allows us to do just that.
Beyond the personal enjoyment we gain, our short-term rental has been an opportunity to provide meaningful work for
a local native family, who manage the unit daily. This has become a crucial source of income for them and helps support
their large household. Hosting benefits not only our guests but also provides stable, local employment, contributing to
the wellbeing of the community.
The proposed regulations, particularly the increased fees and restrictions on mid-term rentals and Ohana units, could
severely limit the benefits that short-term rentals bring to both hosts and local families like the one that manages our
unit. Expanding short-term rentals in a thoughtful, regulated way can promote economic growth, offer guests authentic
local experiences, and create more opportunities for local residents to benefit from tourism.
We urge the committee to consider amendments that will encourage responsible short-term rentals to thrive, balancing
community needs with the economic and cultural contributions of hosts and those who rely on this industry.
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