HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-17 Bill 122 Heather Korotie From: Heather Korotie
To: LPCtestimony
Subject: Late testimony: Bill 122
Date: Wednesday,April 17,2024 11:08:21 AM
Aloha Chairperson & Commission Members,
I am reaching out to share my concerns and insights regarding Hawaii County Bill 122,with a
particular emphasis on its potential effects on small farms operating agricultural-tourism
businesses.
The administrative process for establishing B&Bs is a vital pathway for small farms to
diversify their income through agricultural-tourism. This process not only provides a clear
route for these farms to engage in agri-tourism but also offers a more favorable yearly renewal
fee structure compared to TARS,when multiple rooms or accommodations exist on a single
property. The yearly fees for renewing a B&B license are generally less than those for a TAR
when multiple rooms/accommodations exist,making it a more economically viable option for
small farm owners who wish to offer multiple accommodations.
Furthermore,the stigmatization of TARS and their lack of recognition as legitimate businesses
highlighted during the Covid assistance programs—underscores the importance of
maintaining a respected and viable option for residents to pursue agricultural-tourism. It is
crucial that we preserve pathways that support the agricultural community and promote
Hawaii County as a destination for agricultural, sustainable and educational tourism.
Given these considerations, I strongly urge the council to maintain the current administrative
process for establishing B&Bs. I also propose that the council re-evaluate the impact of these
new regulations after a period of time and how they co-exist with bed and breakfast
regulations, allowing for an informed decision based on the stability and growth of the
agricultural-tourism sector.
Mahalo for your thoughtful consideration of these points. I trust that the council will make
decisions that best support the sustainability and prosperity of our agricultural and tourism
communities.
Mahalo,
Heather
Heather Korotie
808-938-2743
heatherkorotie&gmail.com
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