2024-05-15 Bill 121 Pattie Freeman

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From: Pattie Freeman To: LPCtestimonv Subject: Urgent Need for Comprehensive Economic Impact Study on Bill 121 Date: Wednesday,May 15,2024 12:16:31 PM Attachments: Pattie headshot smallest from Don.ipo imaae002.i)na Aloha Chairperson Defranco, I am very concerned about all of the regulations being imposed on vacation rental properties. I understand neighbor concerns and the impact on their lives. I owned a vacation rental/property management business for many years on the Big Island. Most of the homes I managed and rented were in a small community. My company managed guests with great respect and we rarely had complaints from neighbors. If we did, I personally reached out to the guests to quiet down and the issue was alleviated. Most guests are quite respectful. Instead of helping the Mainland hotels who are against vacation rentals and their great wealth goes to the mainland, why don't you come up with a plan to have vacation rentals professionally managed where house rules are followed? This would definitely support more local independent contractors financially and help older folks like me who want to rent their home out occasionally or people who need the income in order to stay in their home. Furthermore, staying in a local home offers guests a completely different experience as opposed to staying in a hotel. I love traveling to other countries and mostly stay in vacation rentals. It truly is a wonderful experience to live as a local for a visit. In Hawaii, it is a way for guests and homeowners to experience the Aloha Spirit. I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the proposed regulations under Hawaii Bill 121 without the backing of a comprehensive, independent, and academically rigorous economic impact study. The vacation rental industry is a significant contributor to the Big Island's economy, with an impact exceeding $1.1 billion. It is, therefore, inappropriate to regulate such a vital industry without fully understanding the potential consequences of these regulations. During the Leeward Planning Commission meeting, Heather Kimball acknowledged the necessity of conducting this study. This acknowledgment underscores the complexity and the potential impact of Bill 121 on our community and economy. Given the bill's intricacies, a thorough evaluation is essential, yet the current timeframe does not allow for a detailed point-by-point analysis. It is imperative that the bill be sent back with a strong recommendation for a comprehensive study and a reevaluation of its language.