HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-15 Bill 121 Lisa May Wade From: Lisa May
To: LPCtestimony
Cc: mateo wadeCalamail.com
Subject: Urgent Plea for Reconsideration of Bill 121"s Impact on Local Families
Date: Monday,April 15,2024 2:06:36 PM
Chairperson Barbara Defranco
Leeward Planning Commission
County of Hawaii
25 Aupuni St.
Unit 1502
Hilo, HI 96720
Aloha Chairperson Lin & Commission Members,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to express my
strong opposition to Bill 121 currently under consideration in Hawaii. This bill proposes
imposing daily fines of $10,000 on Airbnbs, which I believe will have detrimental effects on
the local residents and the tourism industry on the Big Island.
First and foremost, it is important to recognize that the majority of Airbnb owners on the
Big Island are local residents who rely on this source of income to sustain themselves and
their families. These individuals have invested their time, effort, and resources into creating
comfortable and welcoming homes for tourists, catering to their diverse needs. By
penalizing these hardworking local residents, Bill 121 not only threatens their livelihood but
also undermines the unique experience that tourists seek when staying in Airbnb
accommodations.
Airbnbs offer an alternative option for families and adventure seekers visiting the Big
Island, as well as displaced families or contract workers that are here for a short period of
time, allowing them to immerse themselves in the local culture and community. Unlike
hotels, which often lack the personal touch and connection to the local environment,
Airbnbs provide an opportunity for tourists to experience the island from the perspective
of residents. This not only benefits the tourists but also fosters a sense of community
engagement and cultural exchange between visitors and locals.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that hotels, as major players in the tourism industry, have a
responsibility to contribute to the well-being of the local community. Rather than
burdening Airbnb owners with exorbitant fines, it would be more appropriate for hotels to
allocate resources towards providing low-income housing options for local families. Given
that hotels are not always operating at full capacity, utilizing their vacant rooms to address
the housing needs of the community would be a more equitable solution. This approach
would not only alleviate the pressure on local residents but also demonstrate the
commitment of the hospitality sector in supporting the welfare of the island's inhabitants.
Additionally, if the goal of local public leaders is to retain residents and prevent migration
to other areas, it is essential to explore ways to create a more affordable way of life in
Hawaii. Skyrocketing housing prices and the cost of living have forced many locals to seek
more affordable options elsewhere. By implementing policies that promote affordable
housing, incentivize local businesses, and support entrepreneurship, we can create an
environment where residents can afford to live and thrive in their native land. Penalizing
Airbnb owners through excessive fines is counterproductive to this objective and only
exacerbates the existing challenges faced by the local community.
In conclusion, I urge you to reconsider the implications of Bill 121 and its potential impact
on the local residents and the tourism industry on the Big Island. Instead of imposing
heavy fines on Airbnb owners, let us work towards finding collaborative and inclusive
solutions that benefit both the residents and the visitors. By supporting the thriving Airbnb
community, we can preserve the unique charm of the Big Island and ensure that it remains
an attractive destination for families and adventure seekers alike.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I trust that you will consider the concerns
raised in this letter and make a thoughtful decision that upholds the best interests of the
community.
Mahalo,
Lisa May Wade
15-1740 7th Ave
808.336.7190
lisam_wade@yahoo.com