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From:
Martina Wing
Sent:
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 12:09 PM
To:
Council Testimony
Subject:
Bill 47 - Testimony - Opposition
ZA
CD
To
To
Chairmen Dr. Holeka Goro Inaba
& Vice Chair - Dennis "Fresh"
Onishi�
County of Hawai'i
25 Aupuni St.
..
Hilo, HI 96720'
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Dear Chairmen Dr. Holeka Goro Inaba & Vice Chair Dennis "Fresh" Onishi,
It's been a long journey since Bill 121 was first openly discussed, and here I am submitting testimony
again in opposition to the follow-up Bill 47.
1 attended all meetings regarding this legislation. Last year, I was glad to hear that you wanted to wait
until you had completed the economic study. It earned you some trust, which all evaporated when you
decided to continue this process regardless.
Your efforts are obviously on full steam ahead.
No one thinks that putting the cart before the horse is a good idea, but you have no problem creating bad
policy with no reliable data.
That's bad faith acting. But you can and must do better for your constituents, so, while you seem so
determined, I advocate for three specific, responsible measures:
1. Delay final action on Bill 47 until the County's economic impact study is released.
You, the Council, ordered this study to better understand the short —and mid-term rental
industry. It should inform any policy, not follow it. The delay will ensure smarter regulation,
aligned with actual data and measurable outcomes. It might even show that regulation is
unnecessary and will NOT result in meaningful, positive change. Only because Councilwoman
Kimball says so doesn't mean it's true.
2. Protect Me and other registrants through clear, written amnesty provisions.
Many operators may have unpermitted structures, legacy additions, or zoning that doesn't
currently align with their legal use. We are not criminals —we're community members trying to
make ends meet. I am asking the Council to create protections for those who voluntarily register
and self -disclose, so that this doesn't become a "gotcha" enforcement mechanism. This is scary
overreach.
3. Build policy based on trust, not fear.
After the experience of Bill 121, where late -stage amendments caused a surge in fear and
confusion, I, and many others, continue to remain skeptical of this process. It is being done from
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the top down. No town halls were held. All suggestions were dismissed as one draft after
another was more detrimental to the community. I do not trust the county council's intent to help
the community. However, the GOAL MUST be that Bill47 includes the necessary protections so
that local people can participate in good faith, with the side benefit that it might restore public
trust. Do not create bad laws or act in bad faith. I operate in good faith. You must do the same.
I cannot lose my rental business. I depend on the income.
Please work for the people.
Respectfully,
Martina Wing
25+ year resident of Kailua-Kona