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PCPLUED-10 Page 3 May 6, 2026 <br />Discussion focused on the practicality of implementing the Draft 2045 General Plan, including <br />staffing capacity, policy application, legal implications, and maintaining flexibility in <br />implementation. Chair Kierkiewicz questioned whether the County currently has the capacity to <br />carry out the plan's climate initiatives and community engagement objectives. Ms. Acasio noted <br />the County lacks staffing and has considered the use of third -parry contractual support. <br />Ms. Kagiwada emphasized the importance of identifying clear priorities to ensure the plan <br />functions as an active guiding document. <br />Ms. Kimball stated that the plan should provide policy direction without becoming overly rigid or <br />prescriptive, noting that implementation decisions are shaped by budget constraints, administrative <br />priorities, and available resources. She suggested incorporating clearer benchmarks and <br />performance metrics within the plan. <br />Mr. Inaba asked how non -binding provisions within the bill would function once formally adopted. <br />Ms. Campbell explained that while the General Plan primarily serves as a policy and guidance <br />document, it still carries legal weight by informing Planning Department actions, including permit <br />reviews, land use decisions, and related administrative determinations. <br />Chair Kierkiewicz referenced public testimony expressing concern regarding the potential <br />acquisition of private property by government entities. Ms. Morrison clarified that references to <br />land acquisition tools would be for public purposes and do not independently authorize eminent <br />domain actions. <br />Bill No. 66, Draft 2, was postponed to its next scheduled meeting on September 17, 2025. <br />Planning, Land Use, and Economic Development Special Meeting of September 17, 2025. <br />The Special Meeting of the Policy Committee on Planning, Land Use, and Economic <br />Development accepted public testimony and was recessed until its next scheduled meeting <br />on September 23, 2025. <br />Planning, Land Use, and Economic Development Special Meeting of September 23, 2025. <br />Planning Director Jeffrey W. Darrow, Long -Range Planning Program Manager Bethany Morrison, <br />and Planner IV Janice Hata were in Hilo Chambers to present on the "Sustainable & Resilient <br />Communities" section. <br />Discussion focused on land use planning, infrastructure coordination, growth management, and <br />environmental hazards. <br />Committee Member James E. Hustace inquired,whether the General Plan maps identified potential <br />hazards and environmental risks in relation to planned development areas. Mr. Darrow responded <br />that mapping hazards and risks presents challenges because environmental conditions are subject <br />to change over time. <br />PCPLUED Report No. 10 <br />