HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-15 Bill 121 Jenny M. Contreras From: John Morton
To: LPCtestimonv
Subject: Concerns Over Bill 121 Impacting Future Investment in Hawai"i
Date: Monday,April 15,2024 4:04:17 PM
Aloha Chairperson Lin & Commission Members,
My husband and I recently moved to the Big Island from Los Angeles, investing in a
vacation rental as a cornerstone for our retirement plan. However, we find ourselves in a
challenging position due to the proposed changes under Bill 121. This bill, which we
perceive as both perplexing and dehumanizing, raises significant concerns about the future
of investment on the Big Island.
The essence of our worry lies in the bill's potential to deter future investors, like us, who
see Hawaii notjust as a paradise but as a place where dreams of a secure future can be
realized. The proposed regulations, particularly those that seem to indiscriminately
penalize vacation rental owners, fail to consider the diverse reasons people invest in
properties on the island.
We respectfully 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.
Recommend streamlining the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements
that do not respect the privacy and autonomy of property owners.
Recommend conducting an economic impact study to fully understand the ramifications of
Bill 121 on both current and future investments in Hawaii.
These measures, we believe, will not only protect the interests of current property owners
but also send a positive message to potential investors about HawalTs commitment to
fostering a welcoming and equitable environment for all.
We chose Hawaii for our investment, believing in the aloha spirit and the mutual respect it
signifies. It is our hope that the Commission will consider the long-term impacts of Bill 121
and work towards regulations that honor the rights and aspirations of both residents and
investors.
Mahalo for your consideration.
Sincerely
Jenny M Contreras
Kailua Kona