HONOLULU Debate about vacation rental bills has led to accusations that Honolulu City Council members have become targets for influence peddling.
HONOLULU — Debate about vacation rental bills has led to accusations that Honolulu City Council members have become targets for influence peddling.
Each side in the vacation rental debate says its opponents are trying to buy influence on the nine-member city council.
Two significant vacation rental bills were scheduled for final readings before the city council Monday.
A review of campaign finance records for more than two years shows council members received contributions from major donors who support and would benefit from the bills.
Airbnb wants the city to increase permits for vacation rentals of fewer than 30 days.
Proponents of more hosted and whole-home rentals such as bed-and-breakfasts point to council contributions from hoteliers that would benefit from stricter vacation rental regulations.
