HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-02 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Ray George Testimony From: Rae H George
To: W PCtesti mony
Subject: Written Testimony re: Bill 121
Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 11:44:48 AM
Subject: Reassessing Bill 121: A Call for Consideration of Short-Term Rental Contributions
Chairman Dennis Lin
Windward Planning Commission
County of Hawaii
25 Au uni St.
Unit 1502
Hilo, HI 96720
Aloha Chairman Lin,
As a resident of Hawaii and a short-term rental host since December 2011, I am
reaching out to express my concerns regarding Bill 121. Over the past 12.5 years,
I have not only contributed to the local economy through diligent payment of
TA and GE taxes but have also played a significant role in supporting Hawai'i's
tourism industry. My efforts have helped thousands of visitors enjoy their staX on
he Big Island without the high costs associated with hotel accommodations.
The service I provide has been crucial in making Hawaii accessible to a broader
audience. This, in turn, has had a positive impact on our local economy. Visitors
who stay in short-term rentals like mine contribute to the community by dining
in restaurants, purchasing local goods, and participating in paid tours, among
other activities. This ripple effect supports a wide ran e of businesses and
contributes to the economic vitality of our island.
Given the substantial benefits that short-term rentals offer to both the local
community and visitors, I am deeply concerned about the potential impacts of
Bill 121. 1 fear that the proposed regulations may not onlyjeopardize the
livelihoods of hosts like myself but also diminish the accessibility of Hawaii to a
broader range of visitors.
Therefore, I respectfully request the Planning Commission to consider the
followin
1. IConduct an economic impact study to fully understand the contributions
of short-term rentals to our econom .
FIRecommend the removal of restrictive and invasive registration
re uirements that could hinder the operation of short-term rentals.
3. Ensure that regulations do not unfairly penalize responsible hosts who
have consistently contributed to the count 's revenue and tourism industr .
By addressing these concerns, we can ensure that short-term rentals continue to
play a vital role in Hawai'i's tourism and economy, benefiting both residents and
visitors alike.
Mahalo for your attention to these matters. I trust that the Commission will
carefully consider the positive contributions of short-term rentals and seek
solutions that support the interests of all stakeholders.
Me ka ha'aha'a,
Ray George
73-4464 Kohanaiki Rd
18082175915