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From: Mathew Dietrich <br /> To: WPCtestimonv <br /> Subject: Concerns Regarding the Unnecessary Measures of Bill 121 <br /> Date: Saturday,March 30,2024 4:27:20 PM <br /> Concerns Regarding the Unnecessary Measures of Bill 121 <br /> Chairman Dennis Lin <br /> Windward Planning Commission <br /> County of Hawai'i <br /> 25 Aupuni St. <br /> Unit 1502 <br /> Hilo, HI 96720 <br /> Aloha Chairman Lin, <br /> I hope this letter finds you well. My name is a Mathew Dietrich, and I am a resident of <br /> Pepeekeo, Hawai'i. I am writing to express my concerns regarding Bill 121, which I believe is <br /> attempting to address an issue that, upon closer examination, does not exist in the way it is <br /> portrayed. <br /> It has come to my attention that the motivation behind Bill 121 seems to be influenced heavily <br /> by hotel interests on the Big Island, rather than being a genuine effort to address affordable <br /> housing concerns. Numerous studies have shown that there is no direct correlation between <br /> hosted rentals and the availability of affordable housing. This raises the question of why such <br /> drastic measures are being considered without solid evidence to support the need for them. <br /> In light of these considerations, I kindly request the Planning Commission to: <br /> 1) Recommend conducting an economic impact study to thoroughly understand the actual <br /> effects of hosted rentals on our local economy and housing market. <br /> 2) Recommend removing intrusive licensing requirements that place an unnecessary burden <br /> on homeowners. It should not be a requirement for residents to obtain permission/license <br /> (which would be subject to denial) in order for them to continue renting space on the property <br /> where they reside. Reporting requirements are fine, as long as they are never subject to <br /> anyone's approval. <br /> 3) Recommend the removal of any rules or regulations that already exist in law, such as quiet <br /> hours and parking requirements, to avoid redundancy and overregulation. <br /> It is crucial that we base our decisions on accurate data and a clear understanding of the <br /> situation at hand. Implementing regulations without a solid foundation may lead to unintended <br /> consequences that could harm our local economy and the very fabric of our communities. <br /> I appreciate your time and consideration of these matters. I believe that by working together, <br /> we can find a balanced approach that respects the rights of homeowners while addressing any <br /> legitimate concerns regarding housing and tourism on our beautiful island. <br /> Mahalo nui loa, <br /> Mathew Dietrich <br />