HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-02 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Khymberly Catton Testimony From: Khymberly Catton
To: W PCtesti mono
Subject: Bill 121
Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 10:09:00 AM
To:
WPCtestimony.hawaiicounty gov
Subject: Urgent Need for Reevaluation of Bill 121's Impact on Local Communities
Chairman Dennis Lin Windward Planning Commission County of Hawaii 25 Aupuni St. Unit
1502 Hilo, HI 96720
Aloha Chairman Lin,
I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding Hawaii Bill 121 and its potential impact
on our local communities. As a resident of Hawai'i, I have witnessed firsthand the
importance of short-term rentals in supporting our local economy and providing
affordable housing solutions for many families, including my own.
One of the primary issues with Bill 121 is its lack of data to support the drastic measures it
proposes. The bill seems to be a solution in search of a problem, with no substantial
evidence tojustify the economic loss and emotional duress it will cause to hundreds of
families. It is imperative that the County conduct a comprehensive economic impact study
before moving forward with such legislation. This study should evaluate the bill's effects on
local livelihoods, housing affordability, and the overall economy.
Furthermore, the bill's approach to regulating short-term rentals raises concerns about
enforceability, inequity, and the transformation of neighborhoods. It is crucial that the
Planning Commission recommend streamlining the registration process and eliminating
invasive requirements that do not contribute to the public good. Additionally, the removal
of dangerous signage requirements and the protection of operators from the public
disclosure of addresses and ownership are necessary to ensure the safety and privacy of
our community members.
Lastly, I urge the Planning Commission to consider the recommendations for consumer
protection requirements for platforms with significant market share. These include ensuring
accurate search results, true reviews, and accountability and safety measures that protect
both hosts and guests.
Our community deserves regulations that are fair, enforceable, and based on solid data. I
kindly request that the Planning Commission take these concerns into consideration and
recommend the necessary changes to Bill 121.
Mahalo for your attention to this matter.
Khymberly Catton 15-1512 26 Ave Keaau Hawai'i 96749 808-936-2012