HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-02 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Pamela S. Testimony From: Pea Dog
To: W PCtesti mono
Subject: Urgent Plea for Consideration of Agriculturally Zoned Vacation Rentals
Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 4:58:40 PM
Chairman Dennis Lin
Windward Planning Commission
County of Hawaii
25 Aupuni St.
Unit 1502
Hilo, HI 96720
Aloha Chairman Lin,
I am writing to you today as a resident deeply concerned about the implications of Hawaii
Bill 121, particularly how it affects vacation rentals on agriculturally zoned land. As a 100%
disabled individual, my vacation rental is notjust a business; it is a lifeline. It allows me to
afford medical treatments off-island and cover my insurance co-pays. Without the income
from my vacation rental, I would face significant financial hardship, struggling to pay my
mortgage and utilities.
My small farm offers guests a unique farm experience, contributing to the rich tapestry of
tourism on our island. This bill, however, threatens to sever this contribution and, in doing
so,jeopardizes my ability to sustain myself and my farm.
Given these circumstances, I humbly request the Planning Commission to consider the
following:
1) Recommend the removal of restrictions about where hosts live and where guests stay.
My guests and I share the same parcel of land, experiencing the beauty and tranquility of
agricultural life together.
2) Recommend that Hawaii County provide clarity for tiny homes, tents, trailers, and other
alternative accommodations. These are integral to the authentic farm experience my
guests seek.
3)Recommend the removal of any rules or regulations that already exist in law, such as
quiet hours and parking requirements, which are already adequately managed.
The concerns of enforceability, inequity, and transformation of neighborhoods are valid.
However, it is crucial to balance these with the needs and rights of property owners like
myself, who rely on vacation rentals for essential income. An economic impact study could
provide valuable insights into the positive contributions of agriculturally zoned vacation
rentals.
Mahalo for considering my perspective on this matter. I believe that with thoughtful
consideration and dialogue, we can find a way to preserve the unique offerings of our
island while addressing the Commission's concerns.
Me ke aloha pumehana,
Pamela S.
Kamuela
PamelabiQislandPQmail.com