Having carefully read the article written by Erik Kloninger and Matthew Kiessling (“Isles’ economy, jobs at risk if lodging restricted,” Star-Advertiser, Island Voices, Aug. 12), regarding vacation rentals providing a direct boost to our local economy in the form of visitor spending, I support their point of view. Even my own family on occasion seeks out vacation rentals for our visiting family and friends to have an authentic Hawaii experience. Such places generally are roomier and usually on the beach, something we locals can all enjoy too.

Instead of punitive laws being enacted, our legislators and City Council members should form a committee to study the situation, create common-sense rules (parking, quiet hours) and a tax base that could surely provide money to be used specifically to build affordable housing.

Gladys J. Lucas

Mililani