Letter: Housing shortage not fault of homeowners

Yes, I have an unlicensed vacation rental on my property. I have for quite a while. I’ve met and welcomed some very delightful visitors over the years. My guests park in my driveway. I am always on the property, and would never allow guests to disrespect the aina or my neighbors.

My property is well maintained.

My grandchildren grew up and learned to swim, dive, kayak and fish here on Waimanalo Beach.

I am retired. Without this income, I would be forced to sell my home.

It is laughable that you would suggest that if vacation rentals were disallowed it would provide affordable housing to those in need (“Affordable rental shortage worsens,” Star-Advertiser, Our View, July 11).

I realize affordable rentals are scarce. What you are not considering is that a beachfront rental would never be affordable long-term. Homeowners are not willing to lower their rents for long-term rentals. The city should begin seriously building affordable housing. The mayor and governor are trying to solve their lack of due diligence at the expense of local homeowners.

Laura Santi

Waimanalo

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