2024-04-14 PL-CCI-2024-000003 Bill 121 Judy Angel Testimony

Home

From: Judy A To: LPCtestimony Subject: Airbnb Date: Sunday,April 14, 2024 11:47:14 AM Subject: Urgent Concerns Regarding Bill 121 and Its Impact on Local Hosts Chairperson Barbara Defranco Leeward Planning Commission County of Hawaii 25 Aupuni St. Unit 1502 Hilo, HI 96720 Aloha Chairperson Lin & Commission Members, I am writing to express my strong opposition to Hawaii Bill 121, which I believe unfairly targets Airbnb and similar platforms, making it increasingly difficult for local residents to benefit from the tourism economy. The bill, as it stands, seems to overlook the essential role that short-term rentals play in providing an alternative to overpriced hotel accommodations, which are not only a necessity for many visitors to our island but also a vital source of income for our local families. The proposed regulations appear to be a response to concerns that may be better addressed through measures that do not penalize small operators who are not the primary cause of these issues. For instance, the requirement for hosts to live on the same property or adjacent to their rental units is overly restrictive and does not consider the reality of how many of us manage our properties. This requirement could significantly reduce the number of available rentals, thereby harming our local economy and limiting visitors' lodging options. Our Requests of the Planning Commission: We want the planning commission to recommend the removal of restrictions about where hosts live and where guests stay. As long as the owner is in the same building, on the same parcel, or on an adjacent parcel, it is an overreach to dictate their living arrangements. We want the planning commission to recommend streamlining the registration process and eliminating invasive requirements that do not contribute to the safety or well-being of guests or the community. We want the planning commission to recommend removing dangerous signage requirements and protect operators from the public disclosure of addresses and ownership, which could compromise our safety and privacy. I urge the commission to consider the broader economic impact of this bill and to seek alternatives that protect the interests of local homeowners and the tourism industry. Perhaps, conducting an economic impact study could provide valuable insights into how regulations could be implemented in a way that supports both community welfare and