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From: Raechel Jacox <br /> To: WPCtestimony <br /> Subject: Concerns Regarding the Impact of Bill 121 on Local Employment and Housing <br /> Date: Saturday,March 30,2024 12:22:21 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 /> I am writing to express my concerns about the potential impacts of Bill 121 on local <br /> employment, particularly for those of us who work in the vacation rental industry. As a <br /> housekeeper for vacation rentals in Hawaii, my livelihood depends on the thriving tourism <br /> industry that vacation rentals support. <br /> Bill 121, as it stands, could significantly reduce the number of vacation rentals available, <br /> directly affecting myjob and thejobs of many others who rely on this industry. The <br /> reduction in vacation rentals not only threatens our employment but also impacts the <br /> broader economy of Hawaii, which benefits from the tourism that vacation rentals bring. <br /> I understand the concerns that have been raised regarding enforceability, inequity, and the <br /> transformation of neighborhoods. However, I believe that there are ways to address these <br /> concerns without jeopardizing thejobs of local residents and the economic benefits that <br /> vacation rentals provide. For example, conducting an economic impact study could <br /> provide valuable data to inform a more balanced approach to regulation. <br /> Therefore, I respectfully request the Planning Commission to consider the following: <br /> Recommend conducting an economic impact study to fully understand the implications of <br /> Bill 121 on local employment and the economy. <br /> Recommend streamlining the registration process for vacation rentals to ensure <br /> compliance without imposing undue burdens on operators. <br /> Recommend removing dangerous signage requirements and protect operators from the <br /> public disclosure of addresses and ownership, to ensure the safety and privacy of both <br /> operators and employees like myself. <br /> I believe that with thoughtful consideration and a balanced approach, it is possible to <br /> address the concerns related to vacation rentals while preserving thejobs and economic <br /> benefits they provide to our community. <br /> Mahalo for your attention to this matter. <br /> Me ka mahalo nui, <br /> Raechel Jacox <br />