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From: Sabrina Winder, c-J
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 5:37 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Bill 47
CD
Aloha Hawaii county council, :?
Just a few months ago, Bill 121 was tabled with one of the reasons being that the economic impact
study ordered bythe council was essential before considering any legislation that could potentially
affect the economy of the island. And yet, here we are just months later with Bill 47 being introduced -
and the economic impact study hasn't even been completed yet! What is the rush?
Bill47 is being presented as a "registration only" bill. That sounds reasonable enough, until looking
closer at it. If this bill is giving the government the authority to fine homeowners $10,000 for an
infraction of some unknown future change in policy, it is essentially creating a vehicle for the
government to completely eliminate vacation rentals on the island. This kind of power is terrifying
and it's wrong. '
We all know that vacation rentals have been a huge driver in the economy, supporting businesses and
employment to a majority of people on the island, and providing essential housing to visitors who come
for a variety of family, cultural, and numerous reasons. The tax revenue from vacation rentals is another
significant and important contribution to the economy that must be considered as well. Vacation rentals
are already seeing a significant decline in business this year, and this is the wrong time to pile on more
fees, regulations and restrictions to these struggling homeowners.
When Bill 47 was recently introduced with some clear issues that would hurt the interests of the people
on the island, and numerous people brought up concerns ... all of those concerns were ignored and the
bill was unanimously approved to continue forward with no discussion of the concerns that are being
expressed. I plead with you to slow down and consider the concerns that people have about Bill 47,
before going any further with this bill.
Sabrina Winder
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