HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-30 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Mathew Dietrich Testimony From: Mathew Dietrich
To: WPCtestimonv
Subject: Concerns Regarding the Unnecessary Measures of Bill 121
Date: Saturday,March 30,2024 4:27:20 PM
Concerns Regarding the Unnecessary Measures of Bill 121
Chairman Dennis Lin
Windward Planning Commission
County of Hawai'i
25 Aupuni St.
Unit 1502
Hilo, HI 96720
Aloha Chairman Lin,
I hope this letter finds you well. My name is a Mathew Dietrich, and I am a resident of
Pepeekeo, Hawai'i. I am writing to express my concerns regarding Bill 121, which I believe is
attempting to address an issue that, upon closer examination, does not exist in the way it is
portrayed.
It has come to my attention that the motivation behind Bill 121 seems to be influenced heavily
by hotel interests on the Big Island, rather than being a genuine effort to address affordable
housing concerns. Numerous studies have shown that there is no direct correlation between
hosted rentals and the availability of affordable housing. This raises the question of why such
drastic measures are being considered without solid evidence to support the need for them.
In light of these considerations, I kindly request the Planning Commission to:
1) Recommend conducting an economic impact study to thoroughly understand the actual
effects of hosted rentals on our local economy and housing market.
2) Recommend removing intrusive licensing requirements that place an unnecessary burden
on homeowners. It should not be a requirement for residents to obtain permission/license
(which would be subject to denial) in order for them to continue renting space on the property
where they reside. Reporting requirements are fine, as long as they are never subject to
anyone's approval.
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 overregulation.
It is crucial that we base our decisions on accurate data and a clear understanding of the
situation at hand. Implementing regulations without a solid foundation may lead to unintended
consequences that could harm our local economy and the very fabric of our communities.
I appreciate your time and consideration of these matters. I believe that by working together,
we can find a balanced approach that respects the rights of homeowners while addressing any
legitimate concerns regarding housing and tourism on our beautiful island.
Mahalo nui loa,
Mathew Dietrich
28-1408 Old Mamalahoa Hwy, Pepeekeo, HI 96783
(808) 339-6191