HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0675.653 2022-2024 P/PcPu to
Bill (2(
Cat.i.a5
From: Adrian S
Sent: Wednesday, November 6, 2024 11:10 AM
To: Council Testimony L ;�
Subject: Written Testimony: Bill 121/TAR transient accommodation rentals a w'
Aloha! _'
My name is Adrian Soucek and I am writing to testify against Bill 121/TAR.
TLDR:
Bill 121 unfairly restricts short-term vacation rentals in agricultural areas, which hurts local homeowners, small
businesses, and the broader economy. It infringes on property rights, limits tourism opportunities, and imposes
unnecessary enforcement burdens. This bill will negatively impact families, especially kupuna, who rely on rental income.
A more balanced approach is needed.
I oppose Bill 121 as it imposes harmful restrictions on vacation rentals in agricultural areas, which are vital to the
livelihoods of many Hawaii County residents.
1. Economic Impact on Local Families
Many homeowners, especially our kupuna, depend on short-term vacation rental income to supplement their social
security and retirement pensions. Limiting this income source would hurt local families and small businesses, particularly
in rural areas where tourism is a key economic driver. Local hosts provide unique experiences that corporate hotels can't
replicate, and eliminating this opportunity will directly harm the community. Before passing this bill, a full economic impact
study should be conducted, especially considering how it will affect the people it targets and the loss of GET and TAT to
the State.
2. Violation of Property Rights
The bill restricts homeowners' ability to use their property as they see fit, including renting it out for short-term stays.
Hawaii residents should have the freedom to decide how to utilize their land, especially in agricultural zones where agro-
tourism could be a valuable economic sector. Limiting property use without clear long-term plans for future growth is
short-sighted and unfair.
3. Challenges with Monitoring and Enforcement
Enforcing the proposed regulations would strain already limited County resources. The complexity of tracking and
monitoring vacation rentals across the island could lead to inefficiencies, wasteful spending, and inconsistent
enforcement, further hurting legitimate small businesses and all of the people they employ.
4. Doesn't Address Housing Needs
This bill does little to address the true causes of Hawaii's housing crisis. Limiting vacation rentals doesn't create more
long-term rental properties. Instead, the focus should be on creating more affordable housing options, while allowing
homeowners to continue utilizing their properties for sustainable tourism.
Conclusion—Vote Against Bill 121 Comm. No
Ref. To:
1 Ref. Dane NOV - R 2024
Bill 121 restricts property rights, harms the local economy, and doesn't meaningfully address the housing crisis. I strongly
urge the county council to vote against this measure and instead pursue a more balanced approach that supports both
economic opportunity and responsible land use.
With aloha,
Adrian
•