HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-05-19 Bill 121 Martina Wing From: Martina Wino
To: LPCtestimonv
Subject: Bill 121 Economic Impact-Urgent Need for Comprehensive Study
Date: Sunday,May 19,2024 2:38:08 PM
To
Chairperson Barbara Defranco
Leeward Planning Commission
West Hawaii Civic Center
Council Chambers,Building A
75-5044 Ane Keohokaloe Highway
Kailua-Kona,HI 96740
Dear Chairperson DeFranco,
I am writing to express my continued concerns regarding Hawaii Bill 121 and its potential
impacts on our local economy, particularly the vacation rental industry. TAR rentals are my
main source of income and my retirement.
1. The vacation rental industry is a huge part of our island's economy; it contributes over$1.1
billion (billion with a b) in economic impact to the Big Island. Given this significant
contribution, it is alarming that such a substantial regulation is being considered without a
comprehensive, independent, and academically rigorous economic impact study. County
Council Chair Heather Kimball acknowledged the necessity of conducting this study during
the Leeward Planning Commission meeting. She said, "I'm not opposed at all."
Her acknowledgment underscores Bill 121's complexity and potential consequences for our
community and economy. I wish you had not been put into this situation,but it is clear that
there is not enough time to evaluate this bill point by point thoroughly.
Therefore,the bill must be returned with a strong recommendation for a detailed study and re-
evaluation of its language.
2. Furthermore,whenever new legislation is considered, industry experts and stakeholders
know best how it would affect them.
I wish the same in this instance. I feel the absence of our industry representation in discussions
is a glaring oversight. Including a member from the industry in the commission's Q&A
sessions is crucial.
Our insights and expertise are invaluable in ensuring that the bill accurately addresses the
concerns and realities of the vacation rental sector. The current lack of industry representation
significantly contributes to the public's frustration with this bill.
I urge you to consider these points seriously, advocate for a more informed and inclusive
approach to regulating our vital vacation rental industry, and send an unfavorable
recommendation to the Hawaii County Council.
Mahalo,
Martina Wing
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
808-987-8660
aloha(4 .mantarayshawaiixom