2024-04-24 Bill 121 Brooke Derby

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From: Brooke Derbv To: WPCtestimonv Subject: Urgent Need for Comprehensive Study on Bill 121 Impact Date: Wednesday,April 24,2024 4:21:32 PM Chairman Dennis Lin Windward Planning Commission County of Hawaii 25 Aupuni St. Hilo, HI 96720 Aloha Chairperson Lin- I hope this letter finds you well and thriving in your capacity to shepherd our community's growth and well-being! I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding Hawaii Bill 121 and its potential impacts on our local economy, particularly the vacation rental industry. First, I would like to express my recommendations concerning the bill currently under your discerning review. It is of paramount importance that any legislation we enact is supported by a solid foundation of knowledge and understanding. To this end, I earnestly recommend that you return the bill to the County Council, accompanied by a recommendation to initiate a comprehensive, academically rigorous economic impact study. The significance of this study cannot be overstated, as it will provide us with critical insights into the bill's potential effects on our economy. When the matter was brought before the Leeward Planning Commission, Commissioner Heather Kimball expressed her openness to such a study, stating, "I'm not opposed at all." Her willingness to support this endeavor underscores the value and necessity of conducting the study for the greater good of our community. Second, I urge you to extend an invitation to a representative from the Ohana Aina Association to participate in the policy-making process. Involving a member of this esteemed organization in the question-and-answer portion of our deliberations will ensure that diverse perspectives are considered, enriching our discussions and enhancing the inclusivity of our decision-making process. The Ohana Aina Association's involvement will not only demonstrate our commitment to transparency and community engagement but also ensure that the voices of those directly impacted by our policies are heard and valued. By adopting these recommendations, I believe we will significantly strengthen our approach to policy development, ensuring that our decisions are informed, equitable, and reflective of our community's best interests. Given the limited time for a detailed evaluation of Bill 121, I respectfully request that the commission recommend conducting the necessary economic impact study and revisiting the bill's language. This approach will allow for a more informed and equitable decision- making process. Thank you for considering my suggestions. I trust in your leadership to guide our community towards a prosperous and inclusive future. Mahalo!