HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0675.562 2022-2024From: Joshua Montgomery
Sent: Thursday, September 26'ZO2410:36AK4
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Opposition toBill 121 ' Economic Impact and Legal Concerns
Chairperson Heather Kimball
Hawaii County Council
County Building
25AUpVniStreet
Hilo, H8VV@i'i86720
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Aloha Chairperson Kimball,
I am writingto express my strong opposition to Hawaii County Bill 121. This biLt poses significant
economic and tegat concerns, especiatty for those of us who operate hosted vacation rentats on
agricultural land.
I urge the council to wait for the outcome of the economic impact study before proceeding with Bill 121.
Decisions made without this vital information could have unforeseen negative consequences on our
local economy. We need a futt understanding of how this bilt may affect the livetihoods of many famities
onour island.
The recent Supreme Court decision already makes vacation rental operations in agricultural zoning areas
illegal. The Planning Department will not be able to issue permits under this bill, effectively banning
hosted vacation rentals on agricultural land. This jeopardizes the livelihoods of thousands of families
who depend ODthis income tOsupport themselves.
It's important to note that there have been no compelling reasons provided for this legislation. The
County Council has yet to present a significant number of complaints or adverse impacts to
neighborhoods from hosted rentats where the owner tives on the property.
M@h8iD'
Joshua Montgomery
75-1O97KeupuMeukaDr.
flu M,
Ref. Date