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<br /> Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman <br /> and Members of the County Council <br /> <br /> Page 3 <br /> and drainage and reasonably free from the danger of floods, tsunami and unstable soil <br /> conditions and other adverse environmental effects." <br /> The subject property is located one mile from Keaau Town Center and in close <br /> proximity to [he residential neighborhoods. Therefore, the lands could be <br /> characterized by "city-like" concentrations of people, structures, streets, urban level of <br /> services and other related land uses. Surrounding properties consist mainly of formerly <br /> cultivated sugar cane lands, the HELCO power plant, vacant lands, small agricultural <br /> operations and residences. To the northeast of the subject property is the existing <br /> AMFAC Tropical Products tropical fruits packing facility and papaya puree processing <br /> facility. East of the subject property is the old Puna Sugar Mill operations site, where <br /> the old mill operations office is located and where Hawaii Electric Light Company, <br /> Ina (HELLO) presently operates a power plant. Across Milo Street to the south is the <br /> site of the proposed Greenhouse Specialists' operation and to the southeast is the <br /> existing Pacific Floral Exchange business. Adjacent and to the east of Pacific Floral <br /> Exchange is the proposed school site for Hawaii Christian Camping Association. <br /> Lands immediately adjacent to and west of the subject property are vacant formerly <br /> sugar cane lands. However, lands further west and southwest are primarily in <br /> residential uses. From a land use perspective, it is a more feasible alternative to <br /> expand urban development within this particular area of Keaau. Furthermore, an <br /> Urban classification would complement the existing and future industrial land activities <br /> of the surrounding properties. Therefore, the urbanization of the subject property will <br /> not contribute toward scattered spot urban development. <br /> The reclassification action would also achieve the following goals, objectives <br /> and/or policies articulated in the Hawaii State Plan: <br /> * A strong, viable economy, characterized by stability, diversity and growth that <br /> enables the fulfillment of the needs and expectations of Hawaii's present and <br /> future generations. <br /> * Increased and diversified employment opportunities to achieve full employment, <br /> increased income and job choice, and improved living standards for Hawaii's <br /> people. <br /> * Expand existing markets and penetrate new markets for Hawaii's products and <br /> services. <br /> * Stimulate the development and expansion of economic activities which will <br /> benefit areas with substantial or expected employment problems. <br /> The Urban classification would be consistent with the Economic, Land Use and <br /> Industrial goals and policies of the Hawaii County General Plan by creating industrial <br /> and agricultural opportunities. The goals, policies, standards and courses of action <br /> state the following: <br /> Economic Element <br /> * Provide residents with opportunities to improve their quality of life. <br /> <br />