HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-06-15 Madeleine Loewen Testimony
From: Madeleine Loewen
To: Planning LPC Testimony
Subject: Bill 147
Date: Monday, June 15, 2026 5:05:00 PM
One cannot deny that today's travelers are seeking new and exciting experiences in both
their activities and their stays. As many move away from the sterile environment of a resort
or a hotel, they instead find pleasure in spending their stay in less traditional locations. With
legislation that is proposed to dramatically reduce original and unique properties available
to tourists we are guaranteed to lose a large number of visitors to the island.
Having lived in Hawaii for over 20yrs, it is always a delight to see new tourists become
delighted with the magic and beauty this place has to offer. Living on the Hilo side means
that while traditional accommodations are limited, unique airbnbs abound. These enable
the tourists to feel like they have experienced "real Hawaii" by staying on farms, ranches
and in treehouses and yurts. Many of them recognize that by staying on a resort they tend
to stay at the resort and seldom leave the place to invest their vacation dollars in the many
local experiences available. Additionally many resort stays are significantly cheaper in other
parts of the world, resulting again in a downturn in the number of visitors we get, and a loss
of their dollars.
The current price increases we're all experiencing across the nation are hurting the local
people of Hawaii all the more. While we are content to pay above mainland prices for the
privilege of living somewhere so special, we also frequently have to find additional ways to
make ends meet. For many farmers the cost of fertilizers and pesticides has increased
dramatically over recent years, while the price of fruit has remained constant. Additionally
the number of pests that have infiltrated the island in the years I've been living here make it
increasingly harder for farmers to make a living. Why would the state further penalize their
local food providers by taking away their ability to bring in some extra money operating a
STVR on their farm.
By allowing local people to rent out their ohanas or ag structures we are increasing the
amount of money that comes into the island. And this money stays in the islands! This is
the money that is returned to sports clubs, kids' extra curricular activities, aunty's medical
bills, local restaurants, neighbor island staycations and many many other things. Our
economy has been buoyed by the increased incomes of all the people offering up their
spaces as an airbnb.
I vehemently oppose any and all restrictions hampering Hawaii's residents the opportunity
to rent out their spaces. These spaces attract more tourists, provide more financial stability
to local people, and helps keep more tourist dollars in our own local economy. They help
local farmers continue to operate their farms. And they allow us to maybe take a day off
and enjoy the beach with our 'Ohana without worrying about having to get back to work to
be able to pay the month's bills.
I implore you to cancel this bill and allow us to use our land to benefit our state
Many thanks, Madeleine Loewen