HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0675.567 2022-2024From: Kathleen Lisa
Sent: Monday, September 30'2O243:30PM
To: Ga|imba,Michelle K4.;Council Testimony
Subject: The Vital Role of Resident -Hosted AirBnBs in Our Family's Life
Aloha,
c�
I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the proposed changes under Hawaii Bill 121, which
directly impacts resident -hosted AirBnBs like ours. Our experience as resident -hosts has been
overwhelmingly positive, notjust for our family but also for the local economy and the unique experience
we provide to our guests.
Operating a resident -hosted AirBnB has been a [ifetine for our family. It has enabted us to pay our
mortgage, cover essential. biLts, and avoid further depLetion of our emergency funds. This additional.
income stream has provided us with financial. security, attowing us to spend quatity, stress -free time as a
family. It has also been crucial in covering medical, suppties for our daughter, who has Type 1 diabetes,
and allowing one parent tOstay home 8Sthe primary caregiver.
Beyond our family, our AirBnB contributes to the local economy. We shop locally, hire locat handymen,
thereby supporting our community. Our guests receive a personat and authentic experience, seeing the
love and creativity we put into our home, which contrasts with the impersonal nature of commerciat
Given these points, I respectfully request the Planning Commission to consider the foRowing
recommendations:
Remove intrusive reporting requirements that could jeopardize the operation of resident -hosted AirBnBs.
Recommend strearntining the registration process to support resident -hosts better.
Encourage the County to conduct an economic impact study to understand the positive contributions of
resident-hostedAirBnBa.
These changes woutcl ensure that resident -hosted AirBnBs can continue to provide significant economic
and personal benefits totheir operators and the broader community.
Mahato for considering my perspective on this important issue.
y4ekealoha punmehana,
Kathleen L Nemec
75-5660KopikoStC7-127,Kaiiva-Kona,H|86740
8083153916