HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-03 Testimony Willa Marten(9� uw 0" j TEM 15 -
FROM: Willa Marten
82-6035 Manini Beach Road
Captain Cook HI 96704
808-430-0007
willa@mcn.org
April 3, 2024
TO: Windward Planning Commission, County of Hawaii
25 Aupuni Street, Unit 1502
Hilo HI 96720
Attention: Dennis Lin, Chairman
Aloha Chairman Lin,
As a homeowner and resident of South Kona, I have concerns regarding Bill 121.
With the rising costs of living in Hawaii County and the state, particularly from property
taxes, the state, residents, famers and even small business owners have been forced to
find supplemental income in order to survive and remain in the homeland they love.
TARS have provided safe and viable options for many local home and condo owners, and
it would seem that their property rights would protect them.
Unfortunately, many who have taken the long-term rental option have found themselves
confronted with property abuse and non-payment issues that can take months, even years
to resolve. Local government has not proved to be supportive of owner's concerns or
rights. Many would sell and leave the state before becoming embroiled in landlord
disputes that leave them without income, time and money spent on these resolutions.
As addressing Hawaii's serious housing crisis is at the core of Bill 121 and others, it
would be prudent to create a favorable environment for property owners in regards to
long term rentals and to consider the loss of local workforce before reducing or
eliminating TAR options.
Sincerely,
Willa Marten
Captain Cook
4/3/24
r.r
nt r _:
AS