HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-02 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Ashley Lake Testimony From: Ashley Welton Lake
To: WPCtestimony
Subject: Urgent Need for Reevaluation of Bill 121"s Impact on Local Communities
Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 7:12:45 PM
Aloha Chairman Lin,
I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the proposed measures under Bill 121.
As a resident of Hawaii County, I believe it is crucial to address the negative impacts this
bill could have on our local communities, particularly in terms of enforceability, and
economic impact to the community and county.
Firstly, the enforceability of Bill 121 raises significant concerns. The resources required to
monitor and enforce the new regulations could strain the Planning Department's already
limited human resources. This could divert attention from other critical planning and
development issues facing our county.
The economic impact of these extreme restrictions and regulations proposed in bill 121 has
not been looked at impact to families who rely on this income, and the county & state
who currently collects nearly 20% of every transient dollar that passes into our state, not to
mention income tax.
It also does not take into account alternative rentals like glamping which guests to our
state seek out
In light of these concerns, I urge the Planning Commission to consider the following
recommendations:
Conduct an economic impact study to fully understand the implications of Bill 121 on our
local economy and housing market.
Recommend the removal of restrictions about where hosts live and where guests stay, as
long as the owner is in the same building, on the same parcel, or on an adjacent parcel.
Recommend streamlining the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements,
which could deter homeowners from participating in the short-term rental market.
These steps will help ensure that any regulations implemented are fair, enforceable, and in
the best interest of all Hawaii County residents.
Mahalo for your attention to these matters. I look forward to your thoughtful consideration
and am hopeful for a resolution that supports the well-being of our communities.
Mahalo nui loa,
Ashley Lake