HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-07-01 Rachelle Onaka Support TestimonyItem #6 Bill 147 PL-CCI-2026-000016
2026-07-01 Rachelle Onaka Support Testimony
Info Given at WPC 7-2-26 Meeting
From: Rachelle Onaka
To: Planning WPC Testimony
Subject: Submittal of Written Testimony for Bill 147
Date: Wednesday, July 1, 2026 9:24:29 PM
Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Planning Commissioners,
My name is Rachelle Onaka, and I am a current B&B host on Hawaiʻi Island. Mahalo for the opportunity to provide testimony on Bill 147.
I respectfully ask the Commission to consider allowing existing, approved bed andbreakfast operations on Hawaiʻi Island to be grandfathered in under any new regulations.Many of these businesses have been operating responsibly for years, and it would behelpful for the proposed bill to more clearly address how they will be treated movingforward, especially on AG zoned land. Without that clarity, there is concern that currentoperators could unintentionally become nonconforming or risk losing their ability tocontinue operating. Thoughtful consideration of these existing businesses and their value tothe community is really important and appreciated.
The short term rental community provides necessary housing to locals and visitors,construction workers, traveling professionals, families with medical needs, families travelingfor sports and youth activities, the needs are many and the job creation from short termrentals is significant. Specifically, allowing a minimum stay of 30 days—rather than theproposed 180 days—would make a meaningful difference in meeting the diverse housingneeds of our community.
Mahalo for your time and consideration.
Rachelle Onaka