HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-02 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Warren Cropper Testimony From: Dave Cropper
To: W PCtesti mono
Subject: Urgent Need for Fairness and Clarity in Short-Term Rental Regulations
Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 10:56:42 AM
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 concerns regarding the proposed changes under Hawaii Bill 121,
specifically focusing on the need for fairness and clarity in the regulation of short-term
rentals. As a resident deeply invested in the well-being of our community, I believe it is
crucial to address the issues of Enforceability, Inequity, and the Transformation of
Neighborhoods that have been highlighted by the planning commission.
Firstly, the enforceability of the current regulations poses a significant challenge. Without
clear guidelines and a streamlined registration process, it becomes difficult for property
owners to comply, leading to unintentional violations. I urge the planning commission to
recommend streamlining the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements,
such as dimensioned drawings and the disclosure of private details of their home.
Secondly, the proposed bill introduces inequity among property owners. It is essential to
ensure equal treatment of property owners who live on-site and operators who do not
own the property but live on-site as lessors or caretakers. This fairness is fundamental to
maintaining a balanced and inclusive community.
Lastly, the transformation of neighborhoods is a concern that cannot be overlooked.
Regulations should not restrict 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. Overreach in
dictating living arrangements disrupts the fabric of our neighborhoods and infringes on
private property rights.
In light of these concerns, I recommend that the County conduct an affordable housing
study to better understand the impact of short-term rentals on our housing market. This
study would provide valuable data to inform more balanced and effective regulations.
Thank you for considering my perspective on this matter. I believe that with thoughtful
consideration and adjustments, we can achieve regulations that are fair, enforceable, and
supportive of both our community's character and its economic well-being.
Mahalo,
Warren Cropper
68-1125 N Kaniku Dr, Kamuela, HI 96743
9492027890