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From: Jason Green <br /> To: LPCtestimony <br /> Subject: Urgent Call for Reevaluation of Bill 121"s Impact on Local Communities <br /> Date: Friday,April 5, 2024 3:54:03 PM <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 /> hope this letter finds you well. <br /> My name is Jason Green, and I am a resident of Pahoa. I am writing to express <br /> my concerns regarding Hawaii Bill 121 and its potential impact on our local <br /> communities. While I agree that there is a problem with current STVR's on Big <br /> Island and understand the intention behind the bill is to regulate short-term <br /> vacation rentals, I believe there are significant issues that need to be addressed <br /> to ensure fairness and effectiveness. <br /> Firstly, the bill's current form seems to overlook the importance of <br /> enforceability. Without a clear and practical enforcement plan, the regulations <br /> may become ineffective, leading to continued non-compliance and further <br /> issues. It is crucial that we find a balance that respects private property rights <br /> while addressing community concerns. <br /> Secondly, the bill appears to create inequity among property owners. It is <br /> essential that all property owners, regardless of whether they live on or off- <br /> sight, are treated equally under the law. This ensures fairness and prevents any <br /> undue advantage or disadvantage to specific groups. Rules can be imposed, <br /> such as: <br /> • Must be a resident of the state of Hawaii <br /> • Cannot own and/or operate more than 2 STVR's in the state <br /> • Must operate under a state registered business name & license which will <br /> also mandate yearly business reports and utilize an existing system <br /> owned by the state <br /> Lastly, the lack of comprehensive data to support the bill's provisions is <br /> concerning. Without proper studies, such as an economic impact study or an <br /> affordable housing study, it is challenging to predict the bill's effects on our <br /> community. The known impact would be: <br /> • Vacationers will be condensed to designated accommodation areas <br />