HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-02 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Cole Allen Goodrich Testimony From: Cole Goodrich
To: W PCtesti mono
Subject: Urgent Plea for Fair Regulation of Short-Term Rentals
Date: Tuesday,April 2,2024 3:32:00 PM
Chairman Dennis Lin
Windward Planning Commission
County of Hawaii
25 Aupuni St.
Unit 1502
Hilo, HI 96720
Aloha Chairman Lin,
My name is Cole Allen Goodrich, and I am writing to you from a place of deep concern
and personal experience regarding the proposed changes under Hawaii Bill 121. 1 was once
homeless, a situation that many in our beautiful state find themselves in, due to various
circumstances. It was through the opportunity to co-host an Airbnb that I found stable
housing and a means to support myself. This letter is notjust for me but for many others
who find themselves in similar situations, where short-term rentals offer notjust a roof over
their heads but a chance at a better life.
The proposed regulations under Bill 121, while well-intentioned, overlook the positive
impact that short-term rentals have on individuals like myself. The requirement for hosts to
live on-site or the restrictions on where guests can stay severely limit the flexibility that
many of us rely on to make ends meet. It is essential to consider the diverse ways in which
people utilize these platforms to support themselves and their families.
Therefore, I humbly request the Planning Commission to consider the following:
Recommend the removal of 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, it
is an overreach to dictate where they can and cannot sleep.
Recommend streamlining the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements
like dimensioned drawings and the disclosure of private details of their home.
Recommend removing dangerous signage requirements and protect operators from the
public disclosure of addresses and ownership.
These recommendations aim to balance the need for regulation with the reality of those
who depend on short-term rentals for their livelihood and housing. By considering these
changes, the Commission can help ensure that people like me, who have found a lifeline
through co-hosting, can continue to thrive.
Mahalo for your time and consideration of these matters. I believe that together, we can
find a solution that respects the needs of all HawalTs residents.
Me ka ha'aha'a,
Cole Allen Goodrich
77-102 Queen Kalama Drive
870-291-2225
Cole Goodrich