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From: <br />Theo Jensen <br />To: <br />WPCtestimonv <br />Cc: <br />Rochelle <br />Subject: <br />Preserving Visitor Access to Diverse Hawaiian Experiences Through Vacation Rentals <br />Date: <br />Tuesday, April 2, 2024 8:30:14 AM <br />Chairman Dennis Lin <br />Windward Planning Commission <br />County of Hawai'i <br />25 Aupuni St. <br />Unit 1502 <br />Hilo, HI 96720 <br />Aloha Chairman Lin, <br />I am writing to express my deep concern regarding Hawaii Bill 121 and its potential impact on <br />visitors like myself who have cherished our stays in vacation rentals across the islands. Since <br />2006, I have had the privilege of visiting the Big Island of Hawaii eight times, each stay <br />facilitated by the availability and accessibility of vacation rentals. These accommodations <br />have not only allowed me to explore various areas of the islands but have also enabled me to <br />contribute significantly to the local economy by spending hundreds of dollars at local <br />businesses during each visit. <br />The proposed regulations under Bill 121 threaten to limit the availability of such vacation <br />rentals, which could drastically reduce the ability of visitors to experience the diverse beauty <br />and culture of Hawaii. This, in turn, could have a detrimental effect on the local economy, <br />particularly small businesses that rely heavily on tourist spending. <br />In light of these concerns, I humbly request the Planning Commission to consider the <br />following recommendations: <br />Conduct an economic impact study to fully understand the implications of Bill 121 on both the <br />local economy and the tourism industry. <br />Recommend the removal of restrictions about where hosts live and where guests stay, as long <br />as the owner is in the same building, on the same parcel, or on an adjacent parcel. <br />Recommend streamlining the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements that <br />could deter homeowners from offering vacation rentals. <br />These measures would help ensure that visitors like myself can continue to enjoy the unique <br />experiences that Hawaii offers, while also supporting the local economy and preserving the <br />livelihoods of those who depend on the tourism industry. <br />Mahalo for considering my perspective on this important issue. I hope that the Commission <br />will take steps to protect the interests of both visitors and local communities in Hawaii. <br />Me ka mahalo nui, <br />Ted Jensen <br />5885 Tower Dr. Manitou Beach MI <br />517-490-5089 <br />theoj 1954 c4gmail.com <br />