HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-27 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Kathy Fitts Testimony From: Kathy Fitts
To: WPCtestimony
Subject: Long term residents opposed to Bill 121
Date: Wednesday,March 27,2024 7:00:25 PM
Subject: Concerns Regarding Bill 121 from Long-Time Kailua-Kona Residents
Chairman Dennis Lin Windward Planning Commission County of Hawaii 25 Aupuni St. Unit
1502 Hilo, HI 96720
Aloha Chairman Lin,
My husband and I are 69-year-old long-time residents of Kailua-Kona, and we are writing
to express our deep concerns regarding Bill 121.
We own a one-bedroom condo that we operate as a full-time vacation rental. This rental is
notjust a business for us; it's a crucial part of our retirement plan and a significant source
of our income.
We understand the need for regulations, but we believe that Bill 121, as it stands, could
have unintended consequences that may harm local families like ours. We are particularly
concerned about the lack of data supporting the need for such stringent measures. The
County has not conducted adequate studies to understand the economic impact of this
legislation on small property owners and the broader community. Without this data, it's
challenging to see how the proposed changes will achieve the desired outcomes without
causing significant harm to many families' livelihoods.
Therefore, we respectfully request the Planning Commission to recommend conducting an
economic impact study before moving forward with Bill 121. This study should assess the
potential effects on property owners who rely on vacation rentals for their income, as well
as the broader implications for the local economy and housing market.
Additionally, we are concerned about the enforceability of the proposed regulations and
the potential for inequity. We urge the Planning Commission to recommend streamlining
the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements that could
disproportionately affect small property owners.
Lastly, we request the removal of dangerous signage requirements and the protection of
operators from the public disclosure of addresses and ownership. These measures are
crucial for our safety and privacy.
We appreciate your consideration of our concerns and hope that the Planning
Commission will take a balanced approach that protects the interests of all stakeholders.
Mahalo nui loa,
Kathryn Fitts
76-6309 Haku PI
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
808-987-1459
kath, f� ittts c4gmail.com