HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-05-15 Bill 121 Pattie Freeman 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
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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.
Furthermore, the absence of industry representation during the commission's question and
answer sessions is a significant oversight. Including a member from the industry would
ensure a more balanced and informed discussion, addressing many of the public's
concerns regarding this bill.
In light of these points, I urge you to reconsider the current approach to Bill 121 and to
ensure that any future decisions are made with a full understanding of their economic
impact and with input from all stakeholders involved.
Mahalo,
?w ffx
Pattie Freeman Realtor— RB-15648
Corcoran Pacific Properties— Mauna Lani Portfolio
808.936.0395 Cell Direct
808.885.6688 Office
Pattie@PattieHawaii.com
68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive
Mauna Lani Auberge Hotel
Kohala Coast, HI 96743
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