HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-03 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Nanette Teodoro Testimony From: n teodoro
To: WPCtestimony
Subject: Bill121
Date: Wednesday,April 3,2024 1:16:24 PM
To:
WPCtestimonyae,hawaiicounty.gov
Subject: Concerns Regarding the Impact of STVR Restrictions on Local Economy and
Housing
Chairman Dennis Lin
Windward Planning Commission
County of Hawai'i
25 Aupuni St.
Unit 1502
Hilo, HI 96720
Aloha Chairman Lin,
I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed restrictions on Short-Term Vacation
Rentals (STVRs) as outlined in Hawaii Bill 121. While I understand the intention behind these
regulations is to address the housing crisis, I believe that abolishing or overly restricting
STVRs will not effectively solve the housing issues we face. Instead, it could have unintended
negative impacts on our local economy and the availability of long-term rentals.
Many STVR hosts, especially those who live off-island, rely on the flexibility of renting their
properties short-term to maintain their connection to the islands. These hosts are unlikely to
switch to long-term rentals, as they value the ability to use their properties during specific
times of the year. This situation is reminiscent of challenges faced by other cities, such as
Toronto, Canada, where attempts to cap the number of STVRs did not directly translate to an
increase in long-term housing availability.
Furthermore, STVRs contribute significantly to our local economy. Owners of STVRs employ
local workers, including landscapers, carpenters, electricians, and water delivery services.
Guests of STVRs also support our economy by dining at local restaurants, renting cars,
purchasing gasoline, and engaging in various activities that enrich our community financially.
Given these considerations, I respectfully request the Planning Commission to:
1. Recommend conducting an economic impact study to fully understand the contributions
of STVRs to our local economy.
2. Recommend streamlining the registration process for STVRs to support responsible
operators while maintaining economic benefits.
3. Recommend removing restrictions about where hosts live and where guests stay, as long
as the owner is in the same building, on the same parcel, or on an adjacent parcel.
These recommendations aim to balance the need for housing with the economic benefits that
STVRs bring to our community. By considering these factors, we can work towards solutions
that support both our residents and our economy.
Mahalo for your consideration.
Nanette Teodoro
87-3184 ILI ILI Road, Captain Cook, HI 96704
8083280553
HI Tax Licenses: TA 153-367-1424-1; GE 153-367-1424-2
Aloha Chairman Lin,
I am reaching out to share additional insights on the vital role that Short-Term Vacation
Rentals (STVRs)play in enhancing the visitor experience on our islands and in
accommodating guests in areas where traditional lodging options are scarce.
Many visitors to our islands prefer the unique and personal experience that STVRs offer
compared to standard hotel accommodations. The appeal of staying in a "home away from
home," with access to a kitchen and private living spaces, significantly enhances their visit.
This preference not only supports the diversity of our tourism industry but also encourages
longer stays and increased spending in our local communities.
Moreover, our islands are known for their diverse and sometimes remote landscapes, many of
which lack nearby resorts or hotels. In these areas, STVRs serve as a practical and pleasing
alternative for visitors, allowing them to explore and appreciate the beauty of less accessible
locations. The presence of STVRs in these areas is crucial for supporting tourism and, by
extension, the local economy in parts of the island that would otherwise see fewer visitors.
In light of these considerations, I kindly request the Planning Commission to:
1. Recommend conducting an affordable housing study to ensure that regulations on
STVRs do not inadvertently harm our tourism industry or limit lodging options in
unique island locations.
2. Recommend that Hawaii County provide clarity for tiny homes, tents, trailers, and other
alternative accommodations, recognizing their importance in offering diverse lodging
options to visitors.
3. Recommend removing intrusive reporting requirements, allowing STVR operators to
focus on providing high-quality experiences for guests without undue administrative
burdens.
By acknowledging the unique benefits that STVRs offer to both visitors and remote island
locations, we can develop regulations that support sustainable tourism and the economic well-
being of our communities.
Mahalo for your time and consideration.
Nanette Teodoro
87-3184 ILI ILI Road, Captain Cook, HI 96704
8083280553
HI Tax Licenses: TA 153-367-1424-1; GE 153-367-1424-2