HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0675.530 2022-2024all
| ~
.
/ ����
�'`` .
cow./l!�
From: Mathew Dietrich
Sent: Friday, September 27,2U24111OAK4
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Concerns Regarding Bill 121 Draft Four - Short -Term Rentals
To: Hawaii County Council
From: Mathew Dietrich, Resident ofPuna District, Hawaii
Date: September 27,2O24
Subject: Concerns Regarding Bill 12lDraft Four ' Short -Term Rentaia
Dear Hawaii County Council Members,
|onnwriting toexpress rnyconcerns regarding Bill 121 Draft Four, which proposes regulations for short-
term rentoia(STRo)inHavvaiiCounty.\A/hiia|underatandthedemiretooreotomfronnevvorkfor8TRo,|
beiigvethe current draft could have o detrimental impact on the Puna District.
Unique Challenges of Puna District:
Limited Traditional Accommodations: Unlike other areas, Puna lacks hotels or hotel -like
8CCODlrOOd3tiOnS.
Primitive and Unique Accommodations: Many Puna STRs offer alternative lodgingoodODSbk8teO1G.
yurts, or non-traditional structures. These may not comply with the proposed regulations.
Economic Dependence on STRs:
Tourism is Crucial: The Puna District relies heavily on tourism revenue generated by visitors who utilize
3TRs.
Main Street Pahoa Vulnerable: Stringent regutations could force many businesses on Main Street Pahoa
tuclose due toodecline invisitors.
Proposed Alternatives:
Registration System: | support usystem for STRato registerwith the county. This ensures transparency
and accountability.
Focus mnEssentials: Safety regulations should prioritize guest wellbeing (ex: insurance requirements),
but avoid unnecessary involvement of the planning and buitcling departments.
Economic Impact Study: A comprehensive economic study is essential. to understand the potential
consequences of this bill on Puna's unique tourism ecosystem. Passing regulations without such a study
Urgent Request for Consideration: Comn'.. 0
1 Ref. 0.3t*eT �-?. t2Q24
I urge the council to consider the spec if ic chaltengesf aced by Puna and the potentia I economic harm
Draft Four could cause. Please conduct a thorough economic study and consider alternative approaches
that balance regulation with the needs Ofour unique tourism sector.
Thankyou foryour time and consideration.
Mathew Dietrich