HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-01 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Kelton Higgins Testimony From: Kelton Hiooins
To: WPCtestimonv
Subject: Malama ka'Ohana: Preserving Family Gatherings in Hosted Rentals Bill 121 Testimony
Date: Monday,April 1, 2024 12:38:40 PM
Aloha,
I'm the proud owner of a hosted rental where we welcome guests like `ohana here on the Big Island.I wanted to talk
story about how Bill 121 affects our local way of life,especially when it comes to having family and friends over.
Our island is all about community and'ohana, so when guests stay with us,we treat them like family.They come to
our rentals to experience true island living,which often includes having a family BBQ or a small birthday
celebration—nothing wild,just filled with aloha.
With the new rules in Bill 121,I'm worried about keeping this tradition alive. The new definitons of event and
gathering are confusing.Our way of gathering is respectful and pono,but the bill seems to paint all events and
gatherings with the same brush,one that is unclear and ambiguous and that's not how we do things here.We know
how to malama our'aina and our people,ensuring that everyone can enjoy their stay without being disruptive.
I'm asking for a bit of kokua here.Let's make sure the new rules reflect the aloha spirit and our island's values. We
need to allow for family gatherings in our hosted rentals without guests worrying about stepping on toes just for
living like locals.
Mahalo for your time and understanding.I trust that together,we can find a way to honor our traditions and keep the
island vibe just right for everyone.
Me ke aloha pumehana,
Kelton Higgins
Sent from my iPad