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From: Joia <br /> To: WPCtestimony <br /> Subject: Subject: Urgent Concerns Regarding Bill 121 and Its Impact on Local Communities <br /> Date: Thursday,April 4,2024 11:18:50 AM <br /> TO: <br /> Chairman Dennis Lin <br /> Windward Planning Commission <br /> County of Hawaii <br /> 25 Aupuni St. <br /> Unit 1502 <br /> Hilo, HI 96720 <br /> Aloha Chairman Lin, <br /> I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding Bill 121 and its potential impacts on <br /> our local communities, particularly in terms of enforceability, inequity, and the <br /> transformation of neighborhoods. As a resident deeply invested in the well-being of our <br /> community, I believe it is crucial to address these issues before moving forward with the <br /> bill. <br /> Firstly, the enforceability of Bill 121 raises significant concerns. Without adequate resources <br /> and manpower, the Planning Department may struggle to effectively enforce the new <br /> regulations, leading to selective enforcement and potential inequities. This could unfairly <br /> target certain property owners while allowing others to bypass the rules, creating an <br /> uneven playing field. <br /> Secondly, the bill introduces inequity by differentiating between property owners based on <br /> their residency status. This distinction could disadvantage local families who rely on short- <br /> term rentals as a source of income, further exacerbating the economic divide within our <br /> community. It is essential to ensure equal treatment for all property owners, regardless of <br /> whether they live on-site or not. <br /> Lastly, the transformation of neighborhoods is a significant concern. By imposing strict <br /> regulations on short-term rentals, we risk altering the character of our neighborhoods and <br /> limiting the availability of affordable accommodations for visitors. This could have a <br /> detrimental effect on our local economy, which heavily relies on tourism. <br /> In light of these concerns, I respectfully request the Planning Commission to consider the <br /> following recommendations: <br /> Recommend the removal of restrictions about where hosts live and where guests stay, <br /> ensuring fairness for all property owners. <br /> Recommend streamlining the registration process to make it more accessible for <br /> homeowners. <br /> Recommend conducting an economic impact study to fully understand the implications of <br /> Bill 121 on our community. <br /> Thank you for considering my concerns and recommendations. I believe that by working <br />