HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-15 Bill 121 Kristin Moreland From: Kristin Moreland
To: LPCtestimonv
Subject: Concerns Over Government Overreach and Housing Impact of Bill 121
Date: Monday,April 15,2024 12:10:20 PM
Chairperson Barbara Defranco
Leeward Planning Commission
County of Hawai'i
25 Aupuni St. Unit 1502
Hilo, HI 96720
Aloha Chairperson Lin &Commission Members,
I am reaching out to express my opposition to Hawaii Bill 121, specifically regarding the issues
of government overreach and the misguided belief that it will lead to an increase in affordable
housing availability. As a concerned resident, I believe it is crucial to address these points and
recommend a more thoughtful approach to housing policy.
Firstly, Bill 121 represents a significant overreach of government into the private lives and
property rights of residents. The bill imposes stringent regulations on homeowners, dictating
how they can use their property to provide short-term accommodations. This not only infringes
on private property rights but also sets a concerning precedent for future governmental control
over personal assets.
Secondly, the assumption that restricting short-term rentals will magically increase the stock
of affordable housing is flawed. The issues surrounding housing affordability are complex and
multifaceted, involving zoning laws, construction costs, and economic factors far beyond the
scope of short-term rental regulations.Without comprehensive studies and data to support
this claim, it is irresponsible to enact legislation that could have unintended negative
consequences on our local economy and community character.
In light of these concerns, I respectfully request the Planning Commission to:
1. Recommend that the County implement the regulations in another way that respects
private property rights and considers the diverse needs of our community.
2. Recommend conducting an affordable housing study to truly understand the factors
affecting housing availability and affordability in Hawai'i County, rather than making
assumptions without evidence.
3. Recommend the removal of any rules or regulations that already exist in law, such as
quiet hours and parking requirements, to avoid redundancy and focus on effective
solutions. Further,to enforce the existing laws consistently and fairly across all
properties in the County, including owner occupied homes and tenant occupied long
term rentals.
These recommendations aim to address the concerns of government overreach and the
ineffectiveness of Bill 121 in creating more affordable housing. It is imperative that we
approach these issues with data-driven solutions and respect forth e rights and well-being of
all residents.
Mahalo for your attention to these matters and for your ongoing efforts to serve our
community.
With aloha,
Kristin Moreland
75-7582 KAKALINA ST
(808) 329-6528