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CHAPTER IV. GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS <br />PART 1. ECONOMIC ELEMENT <br />Development of sound public policy requires an understanding of the economic factors affecting <br />the planning area or region. Such factors are largely responsible for growth or lack of growth, <br />and any planning effort must take them into account. In varying degrees, the other elements <br />of the planning process are affected by the economy. <br />ECONOMIC OBJECTIVES <br />Provide an economic environment that allows new, expanded, or improved <br />opportunities that are in balance with the County's physical, cultural, natural and <br />social environment. <br />• Strive for diversification and stability in the economy by strengthening existing <br />industries and attracting new endeavors. <br />• Promote and develop the island of Hawaii into a unique scientific and cultural model. <br />ECONOMIC POLICIES <br />Assist in the expansion of the agricultural industry through: <br />(1) The identification and protection of important agricultural lands by the State <br />(2) Development of marketing plans and programs, including the recognition of <br />products produced on the island of Hawaii. <br />(3) Cooperative marketing and distribution endeavors for export and the <br />removal of marketing restrictions on Hawaiian fruits and other perishables. <br />(4) The development of overseas capacity of Hilo International Airport. <br />(5) Capital improvements and continued cooperation with appropriate State and <br />Federal agencies. <br />• Encourage the expansion of the research and development industry by working with <br />and supporting the University of Hawaii at Hilo and West Hawaii, the Natural Energy <br />Laboratory at Hawaii Authority and other agencies and organizations. <br />• Encourage the development of a visitor industry that is in harmony with the social, <br />physical, and economic goals of the residents of the County. <br />• Encourage the sustainable development of the fishing industry, various forms of <br />aquaculture, and fresh and sea water-based activities. <br />• Support educational, employment and training opportunities and institutions. <br />• Support a capital improvements program to improve the quality of existing <br />commercial and industrial areas, as appropriate. <br />16 <br />