HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-06-20 Rachelle Onaka TestimonyFrom: Rachelle Onaka
To: Planning LPC Testimony
Subject: Submittal of Written Testimony for Bill 147
Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026 8:27:10 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 opportunityto provide testimony on Bill 147.
I respectfully ask the Commission to consider allowing existing, approved bed and breakfast operationson Hawaiʻi Island to be grandfathered in under any new regulations. Many of these businesses have beenoperating responsibly for years, and it would be helpful for the proposed bill to more clearly address howthey will be treated moving forward, especially on AG zoned land. Without that clarity, there is concernthat current operators could unintentionally become nonconforming or risk losing their ability to continueoperating. Thoughtful consideration of these existing businesses and their value to the community isreally important and appreciated.
The short term rental community provides necessary housing to locals and visitors, construction workers,traveling professionals, families with medical needs, families traveling for sports and youth activities, theneeds are many and the job creation from short term rentals is significant. Specifically, allowing aminimum stay of 30 days—rather than the proposed 180 days—would make a meaningful difference inmeeting the diverse housing needs of our community.
Mahalo for your time and consideration.
Rachelle Onaka