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PCHSW-15 Page 2 August 6,2024 <br /> Member Evans expressed concerns about the density of how many hives would be kept in more <br /> urban and higher populated areas, including requirements for Special Use Permits at larger <br /> production levels. Ms. McCarthy explained that is why the best management practice guidelines <br /> are included, as well as the guidance around resources and at what point the DOH would help <br /> with enforcement. <br /> Committee Member Holeka Inaba asked who currently enforces Code regarding bees. Member <br /> Kierkiewicz said that while the Planning Department governs that section of Code, they don't <br /> have the authority to regulate. The DOH Vector Control at the State enforces. Member Inaba <br /> asked for further definition around what types of bees are covered under Chapter 4, Article 5, <br /> Section 4-5-3. Ms. McCarthy said the Department of Agriculture is working to keep other strains <br /> of species of honeybees out of Hawai`i. If another species of bees arrive they will have to <br /> reconstruct the legislation to protect the public. Member Inaba provided a couple of other small <br /> grammar corrections. <br /> Then Member Inaba asked the Department of R&D at what capacity they can provide consulting <br /> or expertise in this area. The Director of R&D, Doug Adams, said that they have the ability to <br /> support any of the agricultural productions on our island. He clarified that they will not be doing <br /> any regulatory actions. Finally, Member Inaba asked questions around the size and density of <br /> hives. Ms. McCarthy clarified the standard size of hives, as regulated by Department of <br /> Agriculture, is eight to ten frames. <br /> Committee Members Rebecca Villegas and Heather Kimball both spoke in support as they have <br /> family members that have been involved in beekeeping. <br /> Member Kimball asked for an amendment mentioning non-invasive seasonal flowers as opposed <br /> to just seasonal flowers. She also mentioned that she agrees with Member Evans regarding the <br /> density of hives and requested and that the default should be for less hives and leave it at the <br /> discretion of the director to allow exemptions for more. <br /> Committee Member Sue Lee Loy asked if the Planning Department could evaluate the right to <br /> farm provision under the Hawai`i Revised Statutes and make sure that is lined up with this bill. <br /> Member Kimball requested that Real Property Tax be given a chance to weigh in on this bill as a <br /> potential income producing activity. <br /> Committee Member Michelle Galimba asked about the definition of"animals" and why <br /> honeybees are included in that list. Member Kierkiewicz clarified that beekeeping will not in any <br /> way be connected with the Animal Control and Protection Agency. <br /> The vote was then taken to refer Bill No. 144 to the Planning Director and Leeward and <br /> Windward Planning Commissions for their review and recommendation. The vote was taken and <br /> passed with six"ayes." <br /> Bill No. 144 was referred back to the Committee from both the Leeward and Windward Planning <br /> Commissions with their favorable recommendations. <br /> PCHSW Report No. 15 <br />