Scott Brazwell’s claim that the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s numbers supporting less spending by those staying in vacation rentals are false is, well, false (“HTA distorts value of vacation rentals,” Star-Advertiser, Island Voices, June 16).

He states the money goes offshore.Not all of it.

What about the many hotel workers who get paid from those visitor dollars as salaries and tips?

They live here and that money goes back into the economy. Those hotel visitors spend more on activities and dining out. Who owns those activities and where do the workers live? On Oahu.

Many transient vacation units (TVUs) are owned by offshore owners. A 2005 study said at least 70% in Sunset Beach alone were owned by off-shore owners. The TVU owner may hire a landscaper and a house cleaner and maybe a real estate agent to manage the place. Only three people. And these visitors do not eat out or do as many activities.

Tell me, who is providing more for the economy?

Kathleen Pahinui

Waialua

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