HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04-15 Bill 121 & 122 Keola Akao From: Keola Akao
To: LPCtestimonv
Subject: transient accommodation rentals and hosting platform
Date: Monday,April 15,2024 11:47:20 AM
Aloha, I am writing this testimony in opposition of the ordinances being intimated on April
18th 2024 as follows:
"7. INITIATOR: COUNTY COUNCIL (PL-CCI-2024-000003)
Bill 121, an ordinance amending Chapter 25,Articles 1, 4 and 5, of the Hawaii County Code
1983 (2016 Edition, as amended), relating to transient accommodation rentals and hosting
platforms. Repeals Section 25-4-16 through Section 25-4-16.3 relating to Short-term Vacation
Rentals and establishes new provisions for Transient Accommodation Rentals and Hosting
Platforms for Transient Accommodation Rentals.
8. INITIATOR: COUNTY COUNCIL (PL-CCI-2024-000004)
Bill 122, an ordinance amending Chapter 25 and Chapter 14, Article 4, Section 14-20, of the
Hawaii County Code 1983 (2016 Edition, as amended), relating to the repeal of bed and
breakfast as a permitted use. Repeals all provisions that allow for Bed and Breakfast
establishments."
The reason I am writing in opposition is because of the benefit that the ability to utilize
Transient Accommodation Rentals and Bed and Breakfast establishments is a vital part of
affording to live in Hawaii. I am a resident of Kona, born and raised in Kona to a Hawaiian
family who has been in Kona for generations. As is known to many Kanaka, living in Hawaii
is ridiculously expensive. For those of us local families that have been able to take advantage
of Transient Accommodations and Bed and Breakfast establishments,this has alleviated some
of the stress and suffering sustained by these high living expenses to stay in our birthplace.
Without the income provided by these accommodations,we would be forced out of our home
most likely to the mainland. Although many accommodations are operated by outsiders, there
are still local families who utilize this opportunity to keep Hawaiian lands in Hawaiian hands.
This gives me and my family as well as many other families the opportunity to raise our
children in the place we have always called home, a place our roots run deep, and a place
where we belong. I am asking for consideration to proceed in a more
delicate manner and remember the local people that will be adversely affected by this. I am in
support of keeping Transient Accommodation Rentals and Bed and Breakfast Establishments
for Hawaii County, especially for those local families who operate responsibly,respectfully,
and to keep local families where they belong. Mahalo.