HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-01 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Garrett Steinke Testimony From: Garrett Steinke
To: WPCtestimony
Subject: Concerns Regarding the Impact of Bill 121 on Hardworking Families
Date: Monday,April 1,2024 12:32:05 PM
Aloha Chairman Lin,
My name is Garrett Steinke, and I am a dedicated high-voltage electrician for Helco in
Kailua Kona. Alongside my wife, who owns and operates a small indoor play space for
children, we're doing our best to provide a stable and nurturing environment for our four
children. Ourjourney to improve our living situation led us to purchase a house that had
been neglected and was known for illicit drug activities. Over four years, with my own
hands, I transformed this house in the evenings and weekends, after long days of work.
This transformation was notjust physical; it was a commitment to my family's future and
the betterment of our community.
The completion of this project allowed us to begin renting it out on Airbnb, which in turn,
has enabled us to make much needed income plus contribute significantly to state and
county taxes, while also providing a welcoming space for visitors. This endeavor was not
supported by the county or state; it was the result of years of personal sacrifice and
investment. The prospect of being able to short term rent this property was the motivation
behind undertaking such a significant project.
Bill 121, with its current stipulations, threatens to undermine the efforts and investments of
homeowners like myself. The bill's stringent regulations could deter individuals from taking
on similar projects, leaving properties neglected and reducing the availability of unique
accommodations for visitors.
In light of this, I respectfully request the Planning Commission to consider:
Removing restrictions on where hosts and guests can reside, ensuring property owners can
make use of their entire property.
Recommending streamlining the registration process and eliminating invasive
requirements.
Recommending removing dangerous signage requirements and protecting operators from
the public disclosure of addresses and ownership.
These recommendations aim to support homeowners who have invested in their
properties and the community, ensuring that their efforts are not in vain. It is crucial to find
a balance that allows for regulation without stifling the initiative and hard work of local
families.
Mahalo for your consideration and for supporting the dreams and endeavors of
homeowners in our community.
Me ka mahalo nui,
Garrett Steinke
73-4177 Malino PI. Kailua Kona 96740 HI
7609372938
garrettsteinke(c4 aol.c om