Trump joke was in bad taste
I am shocked (but not surprised) that the Garden Island news would waste precious news space on such a tacky, hurtful “Trump” joke. A newspaper should be bi-partisan (even though I know the TGI is not). The letters to the editor should not be a forum for hate.
The Dems need to get over the election loss and focus on mending the break in civility of the two major parties. Enough all ready!
Kathy Sheffield, Kalaheo
Limit vacation rental on Kauai
There is a simple solution to the vacation rental problem that the Kauai County Council has been ducking. All vacation rentals currently are supposed to be registered with the county. Now, place a limit on the number of vacation rental licenses allowed on Kauai. Once that number is reached, subsequent applicants have to wait for a slot to open.
You’re not putting anyone out of business. You are preventing the further drain of residences from the pool of homes for long term residents.
If you want to add pressure and build funding for further management and enforcement, establish a fee for the initial vacation rental license and an annual fee for renewal. Perhaps something like $500 per bedroom, $1000 for noise makers such as hot tubs, swimming pools, and elaborate lanais that encourage late night outdoor parties.
To add further encouragement to leave the business, require that annual renewal of licenses must be done in person by the property owner.
As it is now, homes continue to be converted to vacation rentals in the so called “visitor designated areas.” Unfortunately, residents also live in “VDAs” and the conversions place further pressure on available housing island wide.
Simply put a cap on the total number allowed and then start to manage it down. Or, wait and watch it get worse.
Mike Taylor, Princeville
