HomeMy WebLinkAboutBIL 163 Draft 03 2000-2002COUNTY OF HAWAI `I
BILL NO. 163
Draft 3
NORTH
OHAL
AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL PLAN AND REPEALING
ORDINANCE NO. 89-142, AS AMENDED.
8E IT ORDAINED 8Y THE COUNCIL OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. Purpose. The purpose of this ordinance is to adopt a General Plan in
compliance with Chapter 46-4, Hawaii Revised Statutes, Chapter 226-58, Hawai'i Revised
Statutes, and Section 3-15, Hawaii County Charter. That is, the General Plan is a long-range
policy document with a planning horizon of at least 20 years. The General Plan contains value -
based principles from which island -wide and geographic district vision statements are
expressed. Vision statements articulate those issues and matters that are vital to defining the
past, present and future direction of the community. Vision statements capture the character
of the island or district community, and express the role and responsibilities important to its
involvement in the greater community. Vision statements, together with the objectives and
policies of seven planning elements, are intended to guide future planning and implementation
efforts. Through technology, the world has become smaller and, while once isolated, our island
state continually experiences the stresses of growth and population. The General Plan
establishes a framework for greater responsiveness by emphasizing program implementation
and regulatory mechanisms at the next planning levels. The General Plan recognizes that public
infrastructure and commensurate financing are essential to preserving and sustaining our
community visions. The adoption of the General Plan is a commitment to its citizens and our
future.
SECTION 2. Ordinance No. 89-142 (1989 General Plan) and all subsequent
amendments are hereby repealed.
SECTION 3. The General Plan for the County of Hawaii is hereby adopted as follows:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 GENERAL PLAN REQUIREMENTS ......................................................1-1
CHAPTER 2 GENERAL PLAN FROG.................................................................2-1
2.1 INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2 GENERAL PLAN PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION......................................................................... 2-2
2.2.1 Development plan.............................................................................................................................. 2-2
2.2.2 Public Facility Plan........................................................................................................................... 2-3
2.2.3 Short-range compliance and implementation at the Countylevel. .................................................... 2-4
2.3 GENERAL PLAN REVIEW.................................................................................................................... 2-4
CHAPTER 3 THE COUNTY OF HAWA11I..................................................................3-1
3.1 € URISLAND............................................................................................................................................3-1
3.2 PRINCIPLES.............................................................................................................................................3-2
3.3 ISLAND -WIDE VISION STATEMENT................................................................................................ 3-2
3.4 DISTRICT VISION STATEMENTS...................................................................................................... 3-3
3.4.1
Puna District Vision Statement..........................................................................................................
3-3
3.4.2
South Hilo District Vision Statement.................................................................................................
3-4
3.4.3
North Hilo District Vision Statement.................................................................................................
3-5
3.4.4
Hdmdkua District Vision Statement...................................................................................................
3-6
3.4.5
North Kohala District Vision Statement............................................................................................
3-7
3.4.6
South Kohala District Vision Statement.............................................................................................
3-8
3.4.7
North Kona Vision Statement.............................................................................................................
3-9
3.4.8
South Kona District Vision Statement..............................................................................................
3-10
3.4.9
Ka `u District Vision Statement........................................................................................................
3-11
CHAPTER 4 GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS................................................................4-1
4.1 ECONOMIC ELEMENT......................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.1.1
Economic Objectives..........................................................................................................................
4-1
4.1.2
Economic Policies..............................................................................................................................
4-1
4.1.3
District Courses of Action..................................................................................................................
4-2
4.1.3.1
Puna...............................................................................................................................................................4-2
4.1.3.2
South Hilo......................................................................................................................................................4-2
4.1.3.3
North Hilo......................................................................................................................................................4-3
4.1.3.4
H5makua........................................................................................................................................................4-3
4.1.3.4
South Kohala..................................................................................................................................................4-4
4.1.3.5
North Kona....................................................................................................................................................4-4
4.1.3.6
South Kona....................................................................................................................................................
4-5
4.1.3.7
Ka'ii...............................................................................................................................................................4-5
4.2 HISTORIC SITES....................................................................................................................................
4-6
4.2.1
Historic Sites Objectives....................................................................................................................4-6
4.2.2
Historic Sites Policies........................................................................................................................4-6
4.2.3
District Courses of Action..................................................................................................................
4-7
4.2.3.1
Puna...............................................................................................................................................................
4-7
4.2.3.2
North & South Hilo........................................................................................................................................4-7
4.2.3.3
Hamakua........................................................................................................................................................4-7
4.2.3.4
North Kohala..................................................................................................................................................4-7
4.2.3.5
South Kohala..................................................................................................................................................4-7
4.2.3.6
North Kona....................................................................................................................................................4-7
4.2.3.7
South Kona....................................................................................................................................................
4-7
4.2.3.8
Ka'u...............................................................................................................................................................4-8
4.3 HOUSING ELEMENT............................................................................................................................. 4-9
4.3.1 Housing Objectives............................................................................................................................ 4-9
Hawaii County General Plan • i
4.3.2 Housing Policies.............................................................................................................................. 4-10
4.3.3 District Courses of Action................................................................................................................
4-11
4.3.3.1 Puna............................................................................................................................................................. 4-11
4.3.3.2 South Hilo....................................................................................................................................................4-11
4.3.3.3 North Hilo....................................................................................................................................................
4-11
4.3.3.4 Hamakua......................................................................................................................................................4-11
4.3.3.5 North Kohala................................................................................................................................................4-11
4.3.3.6 South Kohala................................................................................................................................................4-12
4.3.3.7 North Kona..................................................................................................................................................4-12
4.3.3.8 South Kona..................................................................................................................................................4-12
4.3.3.9 Ka'u.............................................................................................................................................................4-12
4.4 INFRASTRUCTURE ELEMENT......................................................................................................... 4-13
4.4.1 Public Facilities...............................................................................................................................
4-13
4.4.1.1 Public Facilities Objectives..........................................................................................................................4-13
4.4.1.2 Public Facilities Policies..............................................................................................................................4-13
4.4.1.3 Education.....................................................................................................................................................4-14
4.4.1.3.1 Education Policies..................................................................................................................................4-14
4.4.1.4 Government Operations...............................................................................................................................4-14
4.4.1.4.1 Government Operation Policies.............................................................................................................
4-14
4.4.1.5 Health and Sanitation...................................................................................................................................4-15
4.4.1.5.1 Hospitals .................. .... ................................. ....... ....................
...... .... ............... ............ ........ ..................4-15
4.4.1.5.1.1 Hospital Policies.............................................................................................................
4-15
4.4.1.5.2 Public Cemeteries...................................................................................................................................4-15
4.4.1.5.2.1 Public Cemeteries Policies..............................................................................................4-15
4.4.1.5.3 Solid Waste Management.......................................................................................................................4-15
4.4.1.5.3.1 Solid Waste Management Policies..................................................................................
4-15
4.4.1.5.4 Wastewater.............................................................................................................................................4-16
4.4.1.5.4.1 Wastewater Policies........................................................................................................
4-16
4.4.1.5.4.2 Wastewater Standard(s)..................................................................................................
4-17
4.4.1.6 Parks and Recreation....................................................................................................................................4-17
4.4.1.6.1 Parks and Recreation Objectives............................................................................................................4-17
4.4.1.6.2 Parks and Recreation Policies................................................................................................................
4-17
4.4.1.6.3 Parks And Recreation Standards............................................................................................................4-18
4.4.1.7 Protective Services.......................................................................................................................................4-19
4.4.1.7.1 Protective Services Policies....................................................................................................................4-20
4.4.1.7.2 Protective Service Standards..................................................................................................................4-21
4.4.1.8 Transportation..............................................................................................................................................4-21
4.4.1.8.1 Transportation Objectives......................................................................................................................4-21
4.4.1.8.2 Transportation Policies...........................................................................................................................4-21
4.4.1.8.2.1 Airports and Harbors.......................................................................................................
4-22
4.4.1.8.2.1.1 Airports and Harbors Policies..................................................................................
4-22
4.4.1.8.2.2 Mass Transit....................................................................................................................
4-22
4.4.1.8.2.2.1 Mass Transit Objective............................................................................................
4-23
4.4.1.8.2.2.2 Mass Transit Policies...............................................................................................
4-23
4.4.1.8.2.3 Roadways........................................................................................................................4-23
4.4.1.8.2.3.1 Roadway Objective..................................................................................................
4-23
4.4.1.8.2.3.2 Roadway Policies.....................................................................................................
4-23
4.4.1.8.2.3.3 Roadway Standards..................................................................................................
4-24
4.4.2 Utilities and Energy.........................................................................................................................
4-25
4.4.2.1 Utiities and Energy Objectives.....................................................................................................................4-25
4.4.2.2 Utilities and Energy Policies........................................................................................................................4-25
4.4.2.3 Electricity .....................................................................................................................................................4-26
4.4.2.3.1 Electricity Policies..................................................................................................................................4-27
4.4.2.4 Gas...............................................................................................................................................................
4-27
4.4.2.4.1 Gas Policy
4-27
4.4.2.5 Telecommunications....................................................................................................................................4-27
4.4.2.5.1 Telecommunications Policies.................................................................................................................4-27
4.4.2.6 Water............................................................................................................................................................4-28
4.4.2.6.1 WATER POLICIES...............................................................................................................................
4-28
4.4.3 District Courses of Action................................................................................................................
4-29
4.4.3.1 Puna.............................................................................................................................................................4-29
4.4.3.1.2 Education...............................................................................................................................................4-29
Hawaii County General Plan 0 ii
4.4.3.1.3
Government Operations.........................................................................................................................4-30
4.4.3.1.4
Cemeteries..............................................................................................................................................4-30
4.4.3.1.5
Solid Waste............................................................................................................................................
4-30
4.4.3.1.6
Wastewater.............................................................................................................................................4-30
4.4.3.1.7
Recreation...............................................................................................................................................4-30
4.4.3.1.8
Protective Services.................................................................................................................................4-31
4.4.3.1.9
Airports & Harbors.................................................................................................................................4-31
4.4.3.1.10 Roadways.............................................................................................................................................4-31
4.4.3.1.11 Water....................................................................................................................................................4-31
4.4.3.2
South Hilo....................................................................................................................................................4-31
4.4.3.2.1
Education...............................................................................................................................................
4-31
4.4.3.2.2
Government Operations.........................................................................................................................
4-32
4.4.3.2.3
Hospitals.................................................................................................................................................4-32
4.4.3.2.4
Cemeteries..............................................................................................................................................4-32
4.4.3.2.5
Wastewater.............................................................................................................................................4-32
4.4.3.2.6
Recreation..............................................................................................................................................
4-32
4.4.3.2.7
Protective Services.................................................................................................................................
4-33
4.4.3.2.8
Airports & Harbors.................................................................................................................................4-33
4.4.3.2.9
Roadways...............................................................................................................................................
4-34
4.4.3.2.10 Water....................................................................................................................................................4-35
4.4.3.3
North Hilo....................................................................................................................................................4-35
4.4.3.3.1
Education...............................................................................................................................................
4-35
4.4.3.3.2
Government Operations.........................................................................................................................4-35
4.4.3.3.3
Cemeteries..............................................................................................................................................4-35
4.4.3.3.4
Wastewater.............................................................................................................................................
4-35
4.4.3.3.5
Recreation..............................................................................................................................................4-35
4.4.3.3.6
Protective Services.................................................................................................................................
4-35
4.4.3.3.7
Airports & Harbors.................................................................................................................................4-36
4.4.3.3.8
Roadways...............................................................................................................................................
4-36
4.4.3.3.9
Water......................................................................................................................................................4-36
4.4.3.4
Hamakua......................................................................................................................................................4-36
4.4.3.4.1
Education...............................................................................................................................................4-36
4.4.3.4.2
Government Operations.........................................................................................................................4-36
4.4.3.4.3
Cemeteries..............................................................................................................................................4-36
4.4.3.4.4
Wastewater.............................................................................................................................................4-36
4.4.3.4.5
Recreation..............................................................................................................................................4-37
4.4.3.4.6
Protective Services.................................................................................................................................4-37
4.4.3.4.7
Airports & Harbors.................................................................................................................................4-37
4.4.3.4.8
Roadways...............................................................................................................................................4-37
4.4.3.4.9
Water......................................................................................................................................................4-38
4.4.3.5
North Kohala................................................................................................................................................4-38
4.4.3.5.1
Education...............................................................................................................................................4-38
4.4.3.5.2
Government Operations.........................................................................................................................
4-38
4.4.3.5.3
Cemeteries..............................................................................................................................................4-38
4.4.3.5.4
Recreation..............................................................................................................................................
4-38
4.4.3.5.5
Protective Services.................................................................................................................................
4-38
4.4.3.5.6
Airports & Harbors.................................................................................................................................4-39
4.4.3.5.7
Roadways...............................................................................................................................................
4-39
4.4.3.5.8
Water......................................................................................................................................................4-39
4.4.3.6
South Kohala................................................................................................................................................4-39
4.4.3.6.1
Education...............................................................................................................................................4-39
4.4.3.6.2
Government Operations.........................................................................................................................4-40
4.4.3.6.3
Solidwaste..............................................................................................................................................4-40
4.4.3.6.4
Wastewater.............................................................................................................................................4-40
4.4.3.6.5
Recreation..............................................................................................................................................4-40
4.4.3.6.6
Protective Services.................................................................................................................................4-41
4.4.3.6.7
Airports & Harbors.................................................................................................................................4-41
4.4.3.6.8
Roadways...............................................................................................................................................4-41
4.4.3.6.9
Water......................................................................................................................................................4-41
4.4.3.7
North Kona..................................................................................................................................................4-42
4.4.3.7.1
Education...............................................................................................................................................4-42
4.4.3.7.2
Government Operations.........................................................................................................................4-42
4.4.3.7.3
Cemeteries..............................................................................................................................................4-42
4.4.3.7.4
Wastewater.............................................................................................................................................4-42
Hawaii County General flan • iii
4.4.3.7.5
Recreation..............................................................................................................................................4-42
4.4.3.7.6
Protective Services.................................................................................................................................4-43
4.4.3.7.7
Airports & Harbors.................................................................................................................................
4-43
4.4.3.7.8
Roadways...............................................................................................................................................
4-43
4.4.3.7.9
Water......................................................................................................................................................4-44
4.4.3.8
South Kona..................................................................................................................................................
4-45
4.4.3.8.1
Education...............................................................................................................................................
4-45
4.4.3.8.2
Government Operations.........................................................................................................................
445
4.4.3.8.3
Cemeteries..............................................................................................................................................4-45
4.4.3.8.4
Wastewater ..................................... ........................................................................................................
4-45
4.4.3.8.5
Recreation..............................................................................................................................................
4-45
4.4.3.8.6
Protective Services.................................................................................................................................4-46
4.4.3.8.7
Airports & Harbors.................................................................................................................................4-46
4.4.3.8.8
Roadways...............................................................................................................................................
4-46
4.4.3.8.9
Water......................................................................................................................................................4-46
4.4.3.9
Ka'u.............................................................................................................................................................4-46
4.4.3.9.1
Education...............................................................................................................................................
4-46
4.4.3.9.2
Government Operations.........................................................................................................................
4-47
4.4.3.9.3
Solid Waste............................................................................................................................................4-47
4.4.3.9.4
Wastewater.............................................................................................................................................4-47
4.4.3.9.5
Recreation..............................................................................................................................................
4-47
4.4.3.9.6
Protective Services.................................................................................................................................
4-47
4.4.3.9.7
Roadways...............................................................................................................................................
4-47
4.4.3.9.8
Water......................................................................................................................................................4-48
4.5 LAND USE ELEMENT..........................................................................................................................4-49
4.5.1 Urban Designations.........................................................................................................................
4-49
4.5.2 Rural -Agriculture Designation........................................................................................................
4-50
4.5.3 Agriculture Designations.................................................................................................................
4-50
4.5.4 Other Designations..........................................................................................................................
4-51
4.5.5 Floating Designation.......................................................................................................................
4-51
4.5.6 LAND USE OBJECTIVES...............................................................................................................
4-51
4.5.7 Land Use Policies............................................................................................................................
4-52
4.5.7.1
Commercial/Industrial .................................................................................................................................
4-53
4.5.7.2
Residential Uses...........................................................................................................................................4-53
4.5.7.3
Resort ...........................................................................................................................................................4-54
4.5.7.4
Agriculture...................................................................................................................................................4-54
4.5.7.5
Rural-Agriculture.........................................................................................................................................4-55
4.5.7.6
Open Area....................................................................................................................................................4-55
4.5.7.7
Public Lands.................................................................................................................................................
4-55
4.5.8 Land
Use Standards.........................................................................................................................
4-55
4.5.8.1
Residential Density Guidelines: ...................................................................................................................
4-56
4.5.8.2
Resort Designation Guidelines: ....................................................................................................................
4-56
4.5.8 District Courses Of Action...............................................................................................................
4-58
4.5.8.1
Puna.............................................................................................................................................................
4-58
4.5.8.1.1
Agriculture.............................................................................................................................................4-58
4.5.8.1.2
Commercial............................................................................................................................................4-58
4.5.8.1.3
Industrial................................................................................................................................................
4-58
4.5.8.1.4
Multi -Family Residential.......................................................................................................................4-58
4.5.8.1.5
Single Family Residential......................................................................................................................4-58
4.5.8.1.6
Resort .....................................................................................................................................................
4-59
4.5.8.2
South Hilo....................................................................................................................................................4-59
4.5.8.2.1
Agriculture.............................................................................................................................................4-59
4.5.8.2.2
Commercial............................................................................................................................................4-59
4.5.8.2.3
Industrial................................................................................................................................................
4-59
4.5.8.2.4
Multi -Family Residential.......................................................................................................................4-59
4.5.8.2.5
Single Family Residential......................................................................................................................4-60
4.5.8.2.6
Resort .....................................................................................................................................................4-60
4.5.8.3
North Hilo....................................................................................................................................................4-60
4.5.8.3.1
Agriculture.............................................................................................................................................4-60
4.5.8.3.2
Commercial............................................................................................................................................4-60
4.5.8.3.3
Industrial................................................................................................................................................4-60
4.5.8.3.4
Multi -family Residential........................................................................................................................4-60
4.5.8.3.5
Single Family Residential......................................................................................................................4-60
Hawaii County General Plan 9 iv
4.5.8.3.6
Resort ..................................................................................................................................................... 4-61
4.5.8.4
Hamakua......................................................................................................................................................4-61
4.5.8.4.1
Agriculture.............................................................................................................................................
4-61
4.5.8.4.2
Industrial................................................................................................................................................
4-61
4.5.8.4.3
Multi -Family Residential.......................................................................................................................4-61
4.5.8.4.4
Single Family Residential......................................................................................................................4-61
4.5.8.4.5
Resort .....................................................................................................................................................
4-61
4.5.8.5
North Kohala................................................................................................................................................ 4-61
4.5.8.5.1
Agriculture............................................................................................................................................. 4-61
4.5.8.5.2
Commercial............................................................................................................................................4-62
4.5.8.5.3
Industrial................................................................................................................................................
4-62
4.5.8.5.4
Multi -Family Residential.......................................................................................................................4-62
4.5.8.5.5
Single Family Residential......................................................................................................................4-62
4.5.8.5.6
Resort .....................................................................................................................................................
4-62
4.5.8.6
South Kohala................................................................................................................................................4-62
4.5.8.6.1
Agriculture.............................................................................................................................................
4-62
4.5.8.6.2
Commercial............................................................................................................................................4-63
4.5.8.6.3
Industrial................................................................................................................................................
4-63
4.5.8.6.4
Multi -Family Residential.......................................................................................................................
4-63
4.5.8.6.5
Single Family Residential......................................................................................................................
4-63
4.5.8.6.6
Resort .....................................................................................................................................................
4-63
4.5.8.7
North Kona..................................................................................................................................................
4-63
4.5.8.7.1
Agriculture.............................................................................................................................................
4-63
4.5.8.7.2
Commercial............................................................................................................................................4-64
4.5.8.7.3
Industrial................................................................................................................................................
4-64
4.5.8.7.4
Multi -Family Residential.......................................................................................................................
4-64
4.5.8.7.5
Single Family Residential......................................................................................................................
4-64
4.5.8.7.6
Resort .....................................................................................................................................................
4-65
4.5.8.8
South Kona..................................................................................................................................................
4-65
4.5.8.8.1
Agriculture.............................................................................................................................................
4-65
4.5.8.8.2
Commercial............................................................................................................................................4-65
4.5.8.8.3
Industrial................................................................................................................................................
4-65
4.5.8.8.4
Multi -Family Residential.......................................................................................................................4-65
4.5.8.8.5
Single Family Residential......................................................................................................................
4-65
4.5.8.8.6
Resort .....................................................................................................................................................4-66
4.5.8.9
Ka'u.............................................................................................................................................................4-66
4.5.8.9.1
Agriculture.............................................................................................................................................4-66
4.5.8.9.2
Commercial............................................................................................................................................4-66
45.8.9.3
Industrial.................................................................................................................................................
4-66
4.5.8.9.4
Multi -Family Residential.......................................................................................................................4-66
4.5.8.9.5
Single Family Residential......................................................................................................................4-66
4.5.8.9.6
Resort .....................................................................................................................................................
4-67
4.6. NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ................................
4-68
4.6.1 Natural Beauty, Resources, And Environmental Quality Objectives ...............................................
4-68
4.6.2 Policies
.............................................................................................................................................4-69
4.6.2.1
Natural Beauty .............................................................................................................................................4-69
4.6.2.2
Natural Resources........................................................................................................................................4-69
4.6.2.3
Environmental Quality .................................................................................................................................4-70
4.7 NATURAL HAZARDS ELEMENT........................................................................................................
4-72
4.7.1 Earthquakes
.....................................................................................................................................
4-72
4.7.2 Flooding...........................................................................................................................................4-72
4.7.3 Lava
Hazards...................................................................................................................................
4-72
4.7.4 Natural Hazards Objectives.............................................................................................................
4-72
4.7.4 Natural Hazards Policies.................................................................................................................
4-73
IlaavaN County General Plaza • v
CHAPTER I GENERAL PLAN REQUIREMENTS
The County of Hawaii is mandated to prepare and adopt a General Plan pursuant to
Chapter 46-4, Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS), Chapter 226-58, HRS, and Section 3-15, Hawai'i
County Charter.
Chapter 46-4, HRS, states, in part:
Zoning in all counties shall be accomplished within the framework of a long-range,
comprehensive general plan prepared or being prepared to guide the overall future
development of the county. Zoning shall be one of the tools available to the county to
put the general pian into effect in an orderly manner."
Chapter 226-58, Hawaii Revised Statutes, states:
"(a) The county general plans and development plans shall be formulated with input
from the state and county agencies as well as the general public.
County general plans or development pians shall indicate desired population and
physical development patterns for each county and regions within each county. In
addition, county general plans or development plans shall address the unique problems
and needs of each county and regions within each county. The county general plans or
development pians shall further define applicable provisions of this chapter; provided
that any amendment to the county general pian of each county shall not be contrary to
the county charter. The formulation, amendment, and implementation of county general
plans or development pians shall take into consideration statewide objectives, policies,
and programs stipulated in state functional plans approved in consonance with this
chapter.
(b) County general plans shall be formulated on the basis of sound rationale, data,
analyses, and input from state and county agencies and the general public, and contain
objectives and policies as required by the charter of each county. further, the county
general plans should:
(1) Contain objectives to be achieved and policies to be pursued with respect to
population density, land use, transportation system location, public and
community facility locations, water and sewage system locations, visitor
destinations, urban design, and all other matters necessary for the
coordinated development of the county and regions within the county; and
(2) Contain implementation priorities and actions to carry out policies to include
but not be limited to land use maps, programs, projects, regulatory
measures, standards and principles, and interagency coordination
provisions."
Section 3-15, Hawaii County Charter, reads:
"The county council shall adopt by ordinance a general plan which shall set forth the
Council's policy for long-range comprehensive physical development of the County. It
shall contain a statement of development objectives, standards and principles with
GENERAL PLAN REQUIREMENTS 9 1-1
respect to the most desirable use of land within the County for residential, recreational,
agricultural, commercial, industrial, and other purposes which shall be consistent with
proper conservation of natural resources and the preservation of our natural beauty and
historical sites; the most desirable density of population in the several parts of the
County; a system of principal thoroughfares, highways, streets, public access to the
shoreline, and other open spaces; the general locations, relocations and improvement of
public buildings; the general location and extent of public utilities and terminals, whether
publicly or privately owned, for water, sewers, light, power, transit and other purposes;
the extent and location of public Dousing projects; adequate drainage facilities and
control; air pollution; and such other matters as may, in the Council's judgment, be
beneficial to the social, economic, and governmental conditions and trends and shall be
designed to assure the coordinated development of the County and to promote the
general welfare and prosperity of its people.
(a) The Council shall enact zoning, subdivision, and other such ordinances, which
shall contain the necessary provisions to carry out the purpose of the General Plan.
(b) No public improvement, project, subdivision, or zoning ordinances, shall be
initiated or adopted unless the same conforms to and implements the General Pian.
(c) Amendments to the General Plan may be initiated by the Council or the Planning
Director."
COUNTY OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL PLAN • 1-2
2.1 INTRODUCTION
The County of HawaiTs General Plan is the policy document for the long-range comprehensive
development of the island of Hawai°i. The General Plan states the County's island -wide and
district visions for development over a period of at least 20 years and lays out the direction for
achieving those visions through stated objectives, policies, standards, and district courses of
action. The General Plan guides the form of future development, provides general direction and
location of public facilities and services, provides the legal framework for all other components
of the planning structure, and establishes the foundation for future community planning. The
General Plan is implemented through the promulgation and application of other regulations that
mandate its consideration in the decision-making process. Therefore, the planning process
must be viewed as a continuous, non-linear and dynamic process instead of a static and linear
one.
The essence of the General Plan is articulated in an island -wide vision statement and district
vision statements. The island -wide vision statement expresses fundamentals that are important
to our citizens and applied to the entire island. District vision statements provide a view of
those aspects citizens have identified as important to preserve, enhance, support, and
encourage within each geographical district. Vision statements are vital to understanding district
community goals, the district's interrelationship with other districts and the desirable direction
for land use.
Preparation of the General Plan and its revisions shall provide the opportunity for citizen
participation, review, and understanding.
The General Plan contains the following elements around which the planning process is
formulated: Economic; Historic Sites; Housing; Infrastructure; Land Use; Natural Beauty,
Resources and Environmental Quality; and Natural Hazards. Taken together with the island -
wide and district vision statements, each elements objectives, policies, standards and district
courses of action are intended to guide future actions of the County and its programs, to focus
the substance of development plans, functional and facility plans, and to direct funding towards
priority public projects.
Each element contains objectives, policies, and, if appropriate, standards and district courses of
action described below:
Objective: Indicates a desired long-range goal or direction.
Policy: States the method or strategy that should be undertaken to attain the
stated objectives.
Standard: Means a degree or level of requirement; a criterion. As used in this
document, a standard is to be applied as a guide.
Courses of Action: Establishes the more precise and definitive discussion of community
concerns and problems. A course of action attempts to identify specific
alternatives on a community, district or regional basis.
GENERAL PLAN PROGRAM * 2-1
The General Plan vision, objectives, and policies are graphically depicted on General Plan Maps.
General Plan Maps show general locations of land use patterns, desirable densities, public and
private facilities and utilities, existing and proposed transportation networks, lava hazard zones,
government-owned lands, historic sites, natural beauty, and military installations. General Plan
Maps are used for planning and informational purposes, may be periodically updated, and are
included by reference.
2.2.1 general Plan.
The General Plan, as the Council's comprehensive policy statement for the future growth
direction of the island, represents the highest level of planning for the County of Hawaii. It
serves as the policy guide for all levels of government and the public, and is implemented
through the preparation and adoption of development plans, facility plans, and area
improvement plans; operating and capital improvement programs; and governmental
interagency coordination. Specifically, implementation of the General Plan consists of the
following components:
2.2.E Development plan.
By itself, the General Plan cannot bring about all of the changes and improvements, which are
considered desirable for the County of Hawaii, Government and community exchange and
cooperation are necessary. A development plan serves this purpose and is one of the
intermediate steps to implementing the General Plan. A development plan translates the broad
General Plan statements to specific actions as they apply to specific geographic areas.
A development plan is intended to direct physical development and public improvements, and
may contain detailed guidance for land use and zoning, plans for roadways, drainage, parks,
and other infrastructure and public facilities, architectural design guidelines, planning for
watersheds and other natural features, and other matters relating to the planning area.
Development plans must conform to and implement the General Plan. When a development
plan recommends changes to land use or other regulations, these shall be enacted as separate
amendments to the Hawaii County Code. Development plans should not be confused with
zoning ordinance or other regulatory tools.
It is not mandatory that there be a development plan for each region or district community.
Depending upon its purpose, a development plan may be limited in scope, which may largely be
determined by time, funding, community input, needs and priorities. The need for a
development plan should be assessed considering a number of factors, such as population
demand, and the degree to which public infrastructure and public health and safety are
challenged.
Authorization to prepare a development plan or to update an existing development plan shall be
given by the Council by resolution. The resolution shall state establish the funding source,
scope and purpose of the development pian, its physical planning area and the timeframe for
completion.
A development plan, at the minimum, shall identify the following:
COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL PLAN • 2-2
Financing program. A financing program contains financing strategies and
mechanisms by which the public infrastructure will be funded. Examples of financing
mechanisms include tax increment financing districts, impact fees, general or special
purpose revenue bonds, community facilities districts, and improvement districts.
Utilized in conjunction with Federal and State grants-in-aid, development
agreements, and other creative sources of funding, these financing mechanisms will
supplement the capital improvements program to successfully implement the middle -
range planning efforts.
• Public facility priorities for the financing program.
• Regulatory actions needed by government to implement the development plan.
A development plan may identify:
• Incentive measures to encourage private participation in achieving objectives
relating to public infrastructure and services.
• Public or public/private development initiatives when the private market fails to
address certain needs ---low-income housing or urban redevelopment for example.
• Operational programs by government and the community's role in planning and
implementing the programs. Examples include an after-school program,
neighborhood watch program or mediation training program.
A development plan shall be submitted to the planning commission for review and
recommendation to the council. The council may modify or amend a development plan
by deleting or initiating changes to the plan prior to enacting it by ordinance. A
development plan shall be reviewed every five years after adoption.
2.2.3 Public Facility Plan.
A public facility plan is a long-range plan for a public service system, such as solid waste,
drainageways, parks and recreation, solid waste, and transportation, or a master plan for a
specific facility, such as a landfill. A public facility plan assists a department or agency
responsible for the public service system to examine, direct and prioritize its resources. A public
facility plan can be as critical to a communitys planning efforts as a development. There are
numerous General Plan policies that direct the preparation or update of a variety of public
facility pians. Therefore, the planning director must provide support to government agencies
preparing public facility plans that affect the island of Hawaii. The coordination between
development planning and public facility planning is imperative.
Authorization to prepare a public facility plan or to update an existing public facility plan shall be
given by the Council by resolution. The resolution shall state establish the funding source, the
scope and purpose of the public facility plan, the responsible agency, and the timeframe for
completion.
A public facility plan shall be submitted to the Council for adoption by ordinance. The council
may modify or amend a public facility plan by deleting or initiating changes to the plan prior to
enacting it by ordinance. A public facility plan shall be reviewed every five years after adoption.
GENERAL PLAN PROGRAM • 2-3
2.2.4 Short-range compliance and implementation at the County level.
At the County level, implementation of the General Plan is achieved primarily by way of
enacting specific regulatory, funding and program mechanisms in the form of ordinances and
resolutions. Short-range compliance is achieved through the adoption of specific mechanisms,
such as the zoning code and subdivision codes, the operating and capital budgets, and other
regulatory and enabling tools. The General Plan objectives, policies, standards, and courses of
action should be reflected with the adoption of these specific mechanisms, and should provide
focus and justification for department and agency programs, goals and budgeting.
Adoption of the County's annual operating budget and capital improvement program and
budget is the final step in a comprehensive planning process. As such, the operating and
capital improvement budgets should be consistent with the General Plan. To assure progress is
made in the General Plan program, the following shall be completed:
A. Assigning Program Policies: The mayor shall assign the programmatic policies of the
General Plan, adopted development plans, and adopted public facility plans to
appropriate lead county departments and agencies. The programmatic policy
assignments and any assignment changes shall be reported to the County council.
B. Departmental Strategic/Performance Plans: Under the guidance of the mayor and
coordination of the planning department, each executive department/agency shall
develop a strategic performance plan that includes the programmatic policies
assignments. Each pian shall, at the least, contain departmental mission statements,
goals, objectives, priorities, courses of action and success measures and indicators.
A departmental strategic/performance pian shall align all General Plan, development
plan, and public facility plan objectives, policies, and courses of actions applicable to.
the department's role and responsibility. To the extent possible, measurable
performance indicators shall be developed. Coordinating government departments
and agencies necessary for implementation may be listed. The
strategic/performance plans and revisions shall be submitted to the Council for
review and approval.
C. Annual Reporting: An annual report to monitor implementation of the General Plan,
development plans and facility plans shall be submitted by the assigned executive
department through the mayor for review. The mayor shall submit the annual
report to the council together with the capital and operational budgets in accordance
with the budget timetable set forth in the Charter.
2.3 GENERAL PLAN REVIEW
Although the General Plan projects desired growth over a long-term period spanning at least
twenty years, the County Council shall determine on ten-year intervals whether the General
Plan should be comprehensively reviewed. If undertaken, such review would consider the
elements of the General Plan and, whether, in light of certain substantial changes in economic
conditions or trends, different levels of community needs have emerged that should be
addressed through amendments. General Plan amendment procedures are set forth in the
Hawai°i County Code.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL PLAN • 2-4
3.1 OUR ISLAND
The County of Hawaii encompasses the island of Hawaii, which is the southeasternmost,
largest and youngest island of the Hawaiian archipelago. The land area, 2,578,048 acres, is at
least twice the combined land area of all the other islands of the State.
The County is divided into nine geographical or judicial districts: Puna (319,680 acres), South
Hilo (252,416 acres), North Hilo (206,400 acres), H5makua (371,520 acres), North Kohala
(85,056 acres), South Kohala (225,088 acres), North Kona (312,960 acres), South Kona
(214,656 acres), and Ka`0 (590,272 acres). Each district is economically, socially, culturally,
and environmentally interrelated to one another.
The County's resident population was 148,677 in 2000, more than doubling the number of
residents in 1970 (63,468). The County's resident population is estimated to be 217,718 by the
year 2020. t
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fliiSAix6IA
1 Economic Assessment, PKF Hawaii, January 2000.
THE COUNTY OF HAWAri • 3-1
3.2 PRINCIPLES
Our citizens are the heart of our community. Its residents are a mixture of many cultures and
backgrounds who value the legacies left by those who have come before them. They respect
the personal rights of others, the family and the unique gifts and talents of individual
community members. There is a commitment to safeguard our island and its non-renewable
natural resources for present and future generations. At the same time, the community's
economic, educational and physical infrastructure must be sound to sustain the quality of life
our citizens desire.
3.3 ISLAND -NIDE VISION STATEMENT
The County of HawaN is an attractive community where cultural, social and economic diversity
is accepted and respected, where the natural beauty and the ahupua'a land system is a part of
our island and treated as valued resources, where desired growth of the county is balanced
with responsible resource management, where people feel safe and secure, where physical
infrastructure and public services to support residents and visitors are planned and developed
with the consequences of past and future actions in mind, where sustainability is a shared
responsibility, and where mind, body and spirit are nurtured.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL PLAN • 3-2
i 11j Plus] I'M CUALWA
3.4.1 Puna District Vision Statement
The Puna District is characterized by agricultural activities, growing rural residential subdivisions
forming rural villages, small-scale tourist -related activities, rugged coastlines, a low -land
rainforest known as Wao Kele'O Puna, an active volcano within the Hawai'i Volcanoes National
Park, and geothermal resources.
There are distinct planned or natural boundaries that emerge between communities. Keaau
and Pahoa serve as the principle area for goods and services for Puna Mauka and Puna Makai,
respectively. New urban centers are located near large rural subdivisions to provide goods and
services to the residents of Puna Makai. Small-scale visitor accommodations including bed and
breakfast operations and hotel properties within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with related
uses are offered. Medium -scale resort amenities provide a cultural experience to visitors.
Commercial and residential growth within existing villages, such as Keaau, Kurtistown,
Mountain View, Glenwood, Volcano, and Pahoa, are encouraged and may be expanded.
Low density rural and agricultural uses dominate the landscape between existing communities.
Existing communities are strengthened to provide additional commercial goods and services,
and new commercial cores in Puna Makai to service a number of existing subdivisions
containing a stock of 57,000+ buildable lots are established.
Industrial activities related to the geothermal resource may be established.
An open space corridors along the Volcano Highway and a historical preservation corridor along
the Puna Makai coastline promote a rural/agricultural ambiance.
State Highway 130 (Keaau-Pahoa Road), which serves residents of Puna Mauka and Puna
Makai, will be widened to four lanes from the Keaau Bypass to County Highway 132 (Pahoa-
Kapoho Road) intersection.
New State/County highways between State Highway 130 (Keaau-Pahoa Road) and State
Highway 11 (Volcano Road) and between Puna and Hilo are identified in the Puna Regional
Circulation Plan and will be constructed to provide alternate routes for the safety of the
residents of Puna Mauka and Puna Makai.
The Puna Emergency Access Road, running through the Hawaiian Acres and Ainaloa
subdivisions, will be improved to insure access of emergency vehicles and provides an alternate
route between State Highway 130 and State Highway 11 for residents in both Puna Mauka and
Puna Makai.
Water resources to both Puna Mauka and Puna Makai are provided through expanded water
pipelines and through an alternate distribution method, such as franchised trucking operations.
A comprehensive flood study for the subdivisions between and along State Highway 11 and
State Highway 130 will be developed and implemented.
THE COUNTY of HAWAri • 3-3
3.4.2 South Halo District Vision Statement
The South Hilo District serves as the major economic hub of East Hawaii fueled by the island's
principal government functions, the University of Hawaii, a robust scientific and research base,
agricultural support such as shipping and processing, and visitor amenities. Its deep -water port
and international airport drive the economic base.
The City of Hilo is a pedestrian -friendly urban community with pockets of sub -communities
providing basic goods and services.
The major commercial retail and office functions are within existing corridors and expanded as
follows:
• Primary commercial core mauka (west) and south of Downtown and Kaiko`o and in
the vicinity of the Prince Kuhi® Shopping Center.
• Secondary commercial uses in and around the University area foster the creation of
a "College -Friendly Town".
Industrial uses are within existing industrial -designated areas, with heavy industrial uses to be
generally near the airport and immediate surrounding areas and at Shipman Industrial Park in
Kea`au. Light industrial areas will be within existing designated areas and may be expanded
gradually in the Waiakea Houselots area.
Principal resort accommodations are located along Banyan Drive with small-scale visitor
accommodations, such as B&B's and inns, within the urban core and in outlying areas.
Residential uses will continue in existing areas and will expand through a mixture of residential
uses/types generally in the Waiakea Uka and Kaumana areas, with appropriate land uses and
visual characteristics to foster a sense of community.
®pen space along natural drainage ways are maintained to facilitate flood plain management.
Bayfront Parks, Banyan Drive, and the Keaukaha coast serve as natural outdoor recreation
areas for both active and passive activities.
The rural communities of Papaikou, Pepeekeo, Honomu and Hakalau are each unique in
character having once been robust centers for sugar plantation life. Each community has a
commercial core to conveniently support the surrounding residential and diversified agricultural
activities.
The growing agricultural industry and the natural drainage ways provide open space between
these communities.
COUNTY OF HAWAPI GENERAL. PLAN 9 3-4
3.4.3 North Hilo District Vision Statement
The district of North Hilo has an economy focused largely on diversified agriculture. The
dominant villages are Laupahoehoe, Papaaloa and Ookala. North Hilo is characterized by
densely vegetated gulches and valleys interspersed with large tracts of agricultural land much
of which was formerly in sugar production. Laupahoehoe Point remains one of the most
outstanding areas of natural beauty in North Milo with its rugged coastal point with pounding
surf.
These existing communities are strengthened by providing for supportive land uses. Regional
commercial uses may be established in Laupahoehoe.
Rural/agricultural uses are situated between existing communities providing distinct planned or
natural boundaries.
The economic base is diversified and historical assets of the area, including the former sugar
industry, are enhanced. Small farmers are important to revitalizing the agricultural economy.
Businesses are encouraged to maintain the plantation heritage of the area to attract and
educate the visitor industry.
Bed and breakfast establishments are available.
THE COUNTY of HAWArx • 3-5
3.4.4 HarnaBcua District Vision Statement
The district of Hamakua has an economy focused largely on small- and large-scale agriculture
and retreat visitor uses. Various agricultural crops, ranching, and tree farms have replaced the
lands formerly in sugar production. The dominant towns are Honoka'a and Paauilo.
Hamakua is tropically lush along the lower elevations with densely vegetated gulches and
valleys along the coast. The most famous of these is Waipio Valley, which contains taro fields
and limited recreational activities, with its waterfalls and tropical rainforests. This district
includes the spectacular mountains of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.
Existing communities are strengthened by providing for supportive land uses. Regional
commercial uses may be established in Honoka'a and Laupahoehoe.
Rural/agricultural uses are situated between existing communities providing distinct planned or
natural boundaries. f=orestry and the native hardwood industries are supported.
The utilization of Mauna Kea for astronomical research is supported at restricted levels and
limited visitor facilities are allowed.
The historical assets of the area, including existing ranching operations and the former sugar
industry, are paid homage. The historic Hamakua ditch is revitalized to provide water for farms
and ranches.
Businesses are encouraged to maintain the plantation heritage of the area to attract and
educate the visitor industry. Honokaa strives to preserve much of its historical, architectural
character and lifestyle.
Bed and breakfast establishments and small historic hotels are available.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL PLAN • 3-6
3.4.5 (North Kohala District Vision Statement
The North Kohala District is a rural -agricultural community with vast open spaces. Ranching
dominates much of the lands, providing open space and scenic vistas. Urban centers include
Hawd, Kapeau, and Kohala Ranch. The North Kohala District serves as the northern gateway to
the Kohala Mountains and its isolated valleys. Kohala is rich in historic and cultural resources
from the birthplace of Kamehameha I and early Hawaiian settlements to early Christian
churches.
Coastal vistas makai of Akoni-Pule highway from Kohala Ranch area to Upolu Point and along
coastal areas from'Upolu Point to Pololg Valley provide meaningful open space.
New urban development is centered around existing urban areas of Hawi and Kapa'au, including
expansion of commercial uses in these areas to accommodate population.
Increased employment opportunities are available for the residents of North Kohala by including
small-scale development of resort/tourism based activities, such as eco -tours, bed and
breakfast and retreat centers, in appropriate areas.
Affordable housing opportunities accommodate the existing community around the villages of
Hawi and Kapa'au.
Access to coastal areas, including fishing and surfing sites as well as to mountain areas are
maintained in keeping with the protection/appropriate use of resources.
Kohala Mountain Road provides unique scenic vistas and open space.
The individual identities and characteristics of villages along Akoni-Pule Highway are retained
and enhanced by clear limits to development areas and open space guidelines between existing
villages.
Historic buildings are preserved and the style of historic commercial buildings is retained in new
development in the villages.
THE COUNTY of HAWAri . 3-7
3.4.6 South Kohala District Vision Statement
The South Kohala District is dominated by the Kohala Mountains to the north and Mauna Kea to
the south. The South Kohala District will remain as one of the world's premier resort
destinations. The South Kohala District will continue as the ranching center of the island with
vast open spaces and truck farming will be encouraged in productive areas. South Kohala's
coastal areas are characterized by white sand beaches. A greenbelt open space provides the
separation between Waikoloa Village and Waimea.
The hillside above Waimea remains in open space, providing a clear boundary to the village and
a scenic resource to the community.
Waimea continues to expand as the commercial, educational, health, and service center for the
North Hawaii region. The town center is oriented around the Mamalahoa Highway/Lindsey
Road intersection area and will stay within the limits established by Fukushima store on the east
and the Pu'u`mpelu complex on the west.
Ranching dominates the landscape and provides open space/vistas around Waimea.
Premier resort facilities in the coastal areas provide opportunities for both visitors and residents.
The coastal areas are enhanced for public access and use. '®haPula, Hapuna State Park and
Puak® recreational area is a world-class beach/coastal recreational area.
Waimea is an important agricultural area. The farmlands along Mamalahoa Highway and the
Lalamilo area are protected.
A "greenway" system within Waimea provides alternative transportation modes to
accommodate bikers, walkers and horses.
Kawaihae Commercial Harbor is improved to accommodate needs of West Hawaii as well as to
ensure that non-commercial boating uses are accommodated/expanded.
Waikoloa Village is an emerging residential and commercial center. A full range of services
provides for the needs of the residents in the area.
COUNTY OF HAWAPI GENERAL PLAN • 3-8
3.4.7 North Kona Vision Statement
The Kona district continues to be known for its sunny skies, beautiful vistas, and pristine
waters, as well as diversified agriculture, historic and cultural resources, casual lifestyle, and
friendly residents.
The land north of Keahole is characterized by open space and low density uses with public
shoreline parks and access points. Resorts and related uses are located at Manini'®wali, Kuki'o,
and Ka'Gpulehu. Residential uses are concentrated in the urban areas between Queen
Ka'ahumanu and Mamalahoa Highways.
From Keahole to Keauhou, the land is characterized by urban uses, interspersed with open
space and public shoreline accesses. Economic centers are located in areas adjacent to Queen
Ka'ahumanu Highway. Historic Kailua Village and Say serve as the traditional residential,
economic and recreational hub, although expansion of Honok®hau Harbor, development of
nearby business parks, including the unique Hawaii Ocean and Science Technology Park,
coupled with expanded civic, commercial, residential, educational, and recreational facilities,
especially north of Kailua, provide improved opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Residents and visitors enjoy access to traditional shoreline and mountain areas. A ribbon of
public recreational opportunities extend from Kailua to Kiholo and beyond.
Affordable housing is available within and close to the urban core and employment centers.
Adequate and concurrent public infrastructure facilities are available throughout the district,
including safe and up-to-date roadways, public safety services, along with recreational,
educational, civic and medical facilities.
Alternative and accessible public transportation is available not only in the urban core, but also
to the nearby and outlying residential areas, with Kailua serving as the system hub. Pedestrian
and bicycle pathways are part of the urban area roadway corridors, with traditional and
publicly -owned mauka-makai trails utilized to maintain local community contacts and provide
recreational opportunities.
Areas mauka of Mamalahoa Highway are characterized by large forested tracts, open space,
large 5+ acre agricultural lots and low-density residential use, offering important protection of
the Kona watershed and mauka recharge areas. As part of this protection, natural
drainageways below Mamalahoa Highway are identified and set aside as open space.
The mauka communities along the heritage corridor between Ke®pu and Kealakekua continue
to offer traditional and longstanding residential -agricultural opportunities, with smaller 1-5 acre
farms in the coffee belt adjacent to and below Mamalahoa Highway.
THE COUNTY OF NAWAI°I . 3-9
3.4.8 South Kona District Vision Statement
The South Kona District has an economic base that is primarily agricultural focusing on coffee,
macadamia nuts, and diversified crops. It has quiet rural communities with services/commercial
areas geared to the local community. The upland areas are characterized by native forests and
ranching. South Kona history provides religious, social and political significance before and
after the arrival of Captain Cook at Kealakekua Say. Rugged coastal areas in South Kona limit
accessibility.
Commercial activities are centered around existing villages along Mamalahoa Highway. Limited
expansion of residential and commercial services accommodate the growing community. The
individual identities and characteristics of these villages are retained and enhanced by clear
limits to development areas and open space guidelines between existing villages.
Limited new commercial uses serve existing population/subdivisions to the south of Kealakekua.
The coastal villages, including NapUopob, Wei, Honaunau, and Ho'okena, retain and enhance
their unique lifestyles and character.
The upland areas, including native forests and ranching areas as well as the undeveloped wild
coastal areas south of Ho'okena, serve as important watershed and open space resources.
The transportation system will be improved to accommodate the inter -regional traffic from the
growing communities to the south.
Kealakekua Bay State Park is a world-class area of natural beauty. The coastal area between
Kealakekua Say and North Kona boundary is in open space and accessible for public enjoyment
and education.
The rural lifestyle of South Kona is retained and enhanced with commercial development being
limited to existing urban centers and by limiting urban density development in the
rural/agricultural areas.
Fishing and ocean -based industries are encouraged.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI°I GENERAL PLAN 9 3-10
3.4.9 KaIi District Vision Statement
The Ka'u District's economy is focused on small- and large-scale agriculture, including ranching,
with pockets of small- to large-scale tourism. Internationally renowned Hawaii Volcanoes
National Park (HVNP) stretches from the former Kahuku Manch to the northern border with
Puna. This 300,00+ acre park is the most visited park in Hawaii with a large hotel and visitor
complex. Punalu'u Beach with its small black sand beach is also a major attraction for both
local residents and visitors. Pahala has a rapidly growing visitor industry serviced by bed and
breakfast operations. The existing communities of Pahala, Na'alehu, and Hawaiian Ocean View
Estates and pockets of sub -communities provide goods and services as desired by local
residents and visitors. The Ocean View community serves as another gateway community to
HVNP. The Hawaiian Homelands Commission is providing new residential lots to Hawaiians in
Punalu'u, Discovery Harbor and in the south point area.
Principal commercial goods and services are provided by the three major communities of Ocean
View, Na'alehu, and Pahala.
Unanticipated industrial uses are accommodated to help diversify and support the area's
economy, provided the affected communities are materially involved in the decision-making
process.
Residential uses within existing communities and in and around existing and potential economic
generators are established.
Permit new bona fide agricultural subdivisions that are built to standard.
Very low-density rural and agricultural uses are encouraged to exist between communities.
Reliable potable and agricultural water sources and systems and infrastructure are developed
for existing residents.
Historic non-renewable cultural resources are protected and preserved. This area contains
some of the least disturbed remnants of villages, heiaus, burials, and other important
components of Hawaiian culture.
Public ownership of County parks are pursued to guarantee recreational resources for future
generations. Punalu'u Park is publicly -owned so that natural features and wildlife habitat are
protected or enhanced. Whittington Beach Park is expanded with adequate open space
available for residents.
THE COUNTY OF HAWAII • 3-11
4.1 ECONOMIC ELEMENT
Development of sound public policy requires an understanding of the economic factors affecting
the planning area or region. Such factors are largely responsible for growth or lack of growth,
and any planning effort must take them into account. In varying degrees, the other elements
of the planning process are affected by the economy.
4.1.1 Economic Objectives
• Provide an economic environment that allows new, expanded, or improved
opportunities that are in balance with the County's physical, cultural, natural and
social environment.
• Strive for diversification and stability in the economy by strengthening existing
industries and attracting new endeavors.
• Promote and develop the island of Hawaii into a unique scientific and cultural model.
4.1.2 Economic Policies
• Assist in the expansion of the agricultural industry through:
(1) The identification and protection of important agricultural lands by the State.
(2) Development of marketing pians and programs, including the recognition of
products produced on the island of Hawaii.
(3) Cooperative marketing and distribution endeavors for export and the removal of
marketing restrictions on Hawaiian fruits and other perishables.
(4) The development of overseas capacity of Hilo International Airport.
(5) Capital improvements and continued cooperation with appropriate State and
Federal agencies.
• Encourage the expansion of the research and development industry by working with
and supporting the University of Hawaii at Milo and West Hawaii, the Natural Energy
Laboratory at Hawaii Authority and other agencies and organizations.
• Encourage the development of a visitor industry that is in harmony with the social,
physical, and economic goals of the residents of the County.
• Encourage the sustainable development of the fishing industry, various forms of
aquaculture, and fresh and sea water-based activities.
• Support educational, employment and training opportunities and institutions.
• Support a capital improvements program to improve the quality of existing
commercial and industrial areas, as appropriate.
• Identify and encourage primary industries that are consistent with the social,
physical, and economic goals of the residents of the County.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: ECONOMIC ELEMENT• 4-1
• Promote a distinctive identity for the island of Hawai'i to enable government,
business and travel industries to promote the County of Hawaii as an entity unique
within the State of Hawaii.
• Identify the needs of the business community and support actions that are
necessary to improve the business climate.
• Encourage programs and activities that support appropriate emerging industries on
the island of Hawaii, such as the health and wellness sector, the retirement industry,
advanced and high technology, and the film and video industry.
4.1.3 District Courses of Action
4.1.3.1 (Puna
• Assist the further development of the agricultural industry by providing support
services to commodity groups and other organizations such as farmer's cooperatives,
protecting important agricultural lands, and requesting and providing necessary
capital improvements.
• Resort growth should enhance and be in keeping with the area's rural character.
• Assist the fishing industry through a cooperative effort with State and Federal
agencies.
• Support the development and utilization of geothermal resources and by-products
consistent with the environmental, social, economic and other goals expressed
elsewhere in the General Plan.
4.1.3.2 South Hilo
• Encourage the State to provide the necessary funds for the development of the
university complex and airport facilities. Provide necessary support services and
facilities to aid the development of these complexes.
• Continue to implement a program to revitalize historic downtown Hilo.
• Encourage manufacturing operations that utilize local raw materials, such as
macadamia nut shells and timber.
• Assist the fishing industry through a cooperative effort with State and Federal
agencies.
• Assist in the formulation and implementation of management education and
manpower training programs to strengthen the overall skill levels of its work force to
be compatible with existing and emerging industries.
• Support the development of a master plan for lands within the vicinity of the
University of Hawaii at Hilo to incorporate a "college town" concept utilizing an
appropriate mixture of residential, commercial and other land uses to complement
the university's infrastructure.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI T GENERAL PLAN • 4-2
• Explore the feasibility of expanding the Afook-Chinen Auditorium into an athletic -
exhibition -conference facility that can attract additional activities and visitors to the
Hilo area.
• Support the efforts of the Pacific Aquaculture and Coastal Resources Center to
renovate the abandoned sewage treatment plant in Keaukaha into an aquaculture
center.
• Coordinate with the University of Hawaii at Hilo to establish an aquacultural program
along accessible areas of the Hilo coast for research, demonstration, and
development purposes.
• Support the construction and development of the USDA's Pacific Basin Agricultural
Resource Center facility.
4.1.3.3 North Hilo
• Assist the further development of agriculture. A program to expand agriculture
should be developed and implemented.
• Work with community groups and organizations to identify and develop potential
cottage industries.
AA • Support the
_ development of a native hardwood industry.
4.1.3.4 IE imiftua
• Assist the further development of agriculture and continue to cooperate with the
agricultural sector and other appropriate agencies to provide the necessary services
to assist agriculture.
• Allow the development of limited visitor facilities that will not detract from the
natural beauty of the area.
• Develop a tourism industry that will promote small business development by
maintaining the plantation heritage of the area.
• Diversify the economic base and enhance historical aspects of the area including
existing ranching operations and the former sugar industry.
• Support the growth of a forestry industry within the district.
• Support the growth of astronomical research and development.
4.1.3.5 North Kohala
• Aid in the expansion of agriculture through the protection of important agricultural
lands.
• Resort facilities compatible with the physical, social and economic goals of the
residents of the district should be considered.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: ECONOMIC ELEMENT* 4-3
• Encourage the establishment of an open farmer's market in North Kohala.
• Assist in the formulation and implementation of education and manpower training
programs to strengthen the overall skill level of the local residents to compete in
existing and emerging sustainable and environmentally sound industries and
businesses.
• Work with communities and residents (community groups and organizations) to
identify and develop potential cottage industries and provide flexibility in land use to
accommodate these potential cottage industries.
• Support efforts to promote small business development that is consistent with the
rural, agricultural, and historic character of the area.
• Assist the communities and residents in diversifying the economic base in ways that
are consistent with the rural, agricultural, and historic character of North Kohala.
4.1.3.6 South Kohala
• Assist in the development of agriculture by protecting important agricultural land
from urbanization, providing or having provided the necessary capital improvements,
such as water, and working cooperatively with the agricultural sector and
government.
• Work closely with the State and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to provide
adequate land close to Kawaihae Harbor for industrial activities.
• Recognize the diversity of climate, the quality of the ocean water and the natural
beauty of the hills as vital economic and social assets of the region to be protected
through appropriate regulations.
• Resort development in the district shall be in an orderly fashion and consistent with
the physical and social goals of the residents of the area. Utilize tools such as
incremental zoning to insure development that will best meet the needs of the
County.
• Encourage the preservation of the rural, ranching character within the town of
Waimea.
• Support the growth of astronomical research and development.
4.1.3.; North Kona
• Resort development in the area shall be in balance with the social and physical goals
as well as economic desires of the residents of the district. Necessary pollution
controls shall be available prior to development. Other necessary support facilities
such as transportation and nursery facilities shall also be provided.
• Assist in the further development of agriculture, including forestry and aquaculture
activities. Necessary capital improvements that will aid agriculture, such as water,
should be given priority for funding.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI6I GENERAL PLAN • 4-4
• Continue to encourage development of the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawai'i
Authority as a marine research and commercial facility.
• Encourage and support the development of Hawaii Community College in West
Hawaii, including the University of Hawaii Center.
• Assist the fishing and boating industry through a cooperative effort with State and
Federal agencies.
• Recognize the natural beauty of the area as a major economic and social asset. This
resource should be protected through appropriate review processes when
development is proposed.
• Improve Kailua Village to maintain its viability as a popular visitor destination.
• Increase affordable housing opportunities in the Kailua-Kona area.
4.103.8 South Kona
• Assist the further development of agriculture by protecting important agricultural
land from urbanization, and by providing necessary resources, such as water.
• Resort development in the area should not destroy the natural resources and
historical significance of the area.
• Assist the fishing industry through a cooperative effort with State and Federal
agencies.
• Encourage ocean -based industries, such as aquaculture, in the area.
• Encourage eco -tourism and agricultural tourism as regional opportunities.
• Establish buffers on undeveloped lands around Kealakekua Bay to assure
preservation of the region's unique environment and cultural resources.
4.1.3.9 Ka'5
• Balance development with the social and physical environment of the area.
Provisions for orderly development, housing, and pollution controls shall be
implemented.
• Assist the fishing industry, other ocean based industries, and aquaculture through a
cooperative effort with State and Federal agencies.
• Recognize the natural beauty of the area as a major economic and social asset.
Protect this resource through appropriate review processes when development is
proposed.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: ECONOMIC ELEMENT* 4-5
4.2 HISTORIC SITES
The identity of a community evolves from the past. The Historic Sites Element encompasses
our historic past and the recent past, which has seen the immigration of various ethnic groups
that have blended to create today's Hawaii.
4.2.1 Historic Sites Objectives
• Identify, protect, and restore the sites, which includes complexes, buildings, and
objects of significant historical and cultural importance to Hawaii.
• Appropriate access to significant historic sites, buildings, and objects of public
interest should be made available.
• Encourage a program to inform the public about the history, resources and practices
of the Hawaiian Islands.
4.2.2 Historic Sites Policies
• Develop policies to recognize and protect traditional and customary native Hawaiian
rights as provided by law.
• Support the state in its inventory of historic sites and places, public educational
programs, evaluation of the significance of historic sites, and establishment of
Hawaiian Heritage Corridors.
• Agencies and organizations, either public or private, pursuing knowledge about
historic sites should keep the public apprised of projects.
• Amend appropriate ordinances to incorporate the stewardship and protection of
historic sites, buildings and objects.
• Require both public and private developers of land to provide historical and
archaeological surveys and cultural assessments, where appropriate, prior to the
clearing or development of land when there are indications that the land under
consideration has historical significance.
• Public access to significant historic sites and objects shall be acquired, where
appropriate.
• Establish a program to restore significant historic sites on County lands. Assure the
protection and restoration of sites on other public lands through a joint effort with
the State.
• Encourage the restoration of significant sites on private lands.
• Support programs to limit public information on the location of historically -sensitive
sites.
COUNTY OF HAWAI6I GENERAL PLAN • 4-6
• Encourage the provision of signs explaining historic sites, buildings and objects that
are in keeping with the character of the area or the cultural aspects of the feature.
• Encourage the incorporation of certain natural features important to Hawaiian
culture in land use planning.
4.2,3 District Courses of motion
4.2.3.1 ■ una
• Support the establishment of Hawaiian Heritage Corridors.
4.2.3.2 North & South Hilo
• Support the development of Kalakaua Park and its surrounding area as the Kalakaua
Park Heritage Area and the restoration of its historic significance to Hilo.
• Identify historic sites within the South Hilo District for inclusion within the Hawaiian
Heritage Corridor Program.
4.2.3.3 liamalkua
• Coordinate with the community to identify historical sites and buildings for inclusion
in a heritage corridor program.
4.2.3.4 Forth Kohala
• Coordinate with the communities and residents of North Kohala to identify historic
sites and buildings for protection and preservation.
• Encourage the preservation of historic buildings and promote new development, that
matches the style of historic commercial buildings in the area.
• Recognize the natural beauty and history of the area as a major economic and social
asset to be protected and perpetuated as part of the uniqueness of the island.
4.2.3.5 South Kohala
• Support the establishment of Hawaiian Heritage Corridors.
4.2.3.6 North Kona
• Establish suitable visual buffers for the Keakealaniwahine and Keolanahihi complexes
as a condition of rezoning or Special Management Area permits, for nearby
properties.
4.2.3.7 South Kona
• Support the establishment of Hawaiian Heritage Corridors.
• Adopt the Heritage Corridor Plan, which includes lands from Holualoa to Honanau.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-7
• Establish buffers on undeveloped lands around Kealakekua Bay to assure
preservation of the region's unique environment and cultural resources.
4.24308 Ka`u
• Support the establishment of Hawaiian Heritage Corridors.
COUNTY OF HAWAPI GENERAL PLAN • 4-8
AREAS OF NATURAL BEAUTY BY AHUPUA'A OR REGI®N
Note: The potential areas of natural beauty listed on this table are intended for planning and
program purposes.
4.3 MOUSING ELEMENT
In an economic setting, the construction of housing is an essential contributor to business,
industry and employment. The location of housing on the other hand is dependent upon the
location of other economic and employment opportunities, such as agriculture or resort
developments.
In the physical setting, housing and its residential land use component utilize a significant
portion of the County's urban lands. The placement or settlement patterns and the form of
housing are major influences on the environment and aesthetic setting of the island.
From government's perspective, adequate housing for residents is part of the considerations of
public health, welfare and safety. Housing and residential use of land is a generator of
government revenue through local real property taxes. The revenues are balanced by
significant expenditures of public funds for roads, schools, protective services and other capital
improvement projects that service residential areas. Thus, the provision of housing requires the
coordination of planning and implementation on all levels of government.
The availability of housing is dependent on a number of interrelated factors, including the
availability of appropriately zoned land and infrastructure, and the cost of raw land and its
development. The Housing Element must consider future costs of constructing a house and the
ability of individuals to purchase or rent these units. Government housing programs, therefore,
influence and are Influenced by the diverse needs of our residents.
In the collective sense, the Housing Element is related to all other elements of the General Plan.
It is most directly related to the Land Use Element. Moreover, the Housing Element is directly
influenced by the County's desired growth directions.
4.3.1 Housing Objectives
• Attain safe, sanitary, and livable housing for the residents of the County of Hawaii.
• Maintain a diversity of socio-economic housing mix throughout the different parts of
the County.
• Create viable communities with affordable housing and suitable living environments.
• Improve and maintain the quality and affordability of the existing housing inventory.
• Seek sufficient production of new affordable rental and fee -simple housing in a
variety of sizes to satisfactorily accommodate the needs and desires of families and
individuals.
• Ensure that housing is available to all persons regardless of age, sex, marital status,
ethnic background, and income.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: HOUSING ELEMENT• 4-9
• Locate affordable housing in reasonable proximity to employment centers.
• Encourage and expand home ownership opportunities for residents.
4.3.2 Housing Policies
• Formulate a program for housing that identifies specific mechanisms to implement
the housing objectives, and adopt ordinances and rules to assure their execution.
• Utilize housing powers and programs to accomplish housing objectives and seek out
new programs and resources to address the housing needs of the residents.
• Support programs that improve, maintain, and rehabilitate the existing housing
inventory to maintain the viability of existing communities.
• Encourage a volume of construction and rehabilitation of housing sufficient to meet
growth needs and correct existing deficiencies.
• Industries or developments that create a demand for housing shall provide employee
housing based upon a ratio to be determined by an analysis of the locality's needs.
• Initiate and participate in activities with the private sector including the provision of
leadership and expertise to neighborhoods and nonprofit organizations in the
development of housing and community development projects.
• Investigate, develop, and promote the creation of new innovative and timely
financing techniques and programs to reduce the cost of housing.
• Encourage the use of suitable public lands for housing purposes in fee or lease.
• Promote research and development of methods, programs, and activities including
the review of regulatory requirements and procedures as they affect housing, to
reduce the costs consistent with the public health, safety and welfare.
• Utilize financing techniques that reduce the cost of housing, including the issuance of
tax-exempt bonds and the implementation of interim financing programs.
• Encourage corporations and nonprofit organizations to participate in Federal, State
and private programs to provide new and rehabilitated housing for low- and
moderate -income families.
• Increase rental opportunities and choices in terms of quality, cost, amenity, style and
size of housing, especially for low and moderate -income households.
• Ensure that adequate infrastructure is available in appropriate locations to support
the timely development of affordable housing.
• Investigate the use of the County's taxing powers as a possible means to increase
the supply of affordable housing.
COUNTY OF HAWAM GENERAL PLAN • 4-10
• Work with, encourage and support private sector efforts in the provision of
affordable housing.
• Evaluate the County's affordable housing program to assure its effectiveness and
applicability.
• Encourage the construction of specially designed facilities or communities for elderly
persons needing institutional care and small home care units for active elderly
persons.
• Accommodate the housing requirements of special need groups including the elderly,
handicapped, homeless, and those residents in rural areas.
• Encourage the development of affordable retirement communities.
4.3.3 District Courses of Action
4.3.3.1 (Puna
• Consider and encourage the use of a variety of mechanisms to provide the necessary
infrastructure in nonconforming subdivisions.
• Encourage the maintenance and rehabilitation of the existing housing inventory to
maintain the viability of existing communities.
4.3.3.2 South Filo
• Encourage the State to provide student, faculty, and staff housing for the University
of Hawaii at Hilo and the Hawaii Community College.
• Aid and encourage in a variety of programs for the replacement or rehabilitation of
housing units.
• Aid and encourage housing projects for low and moderate income families, "gap -
groups" and the elderly.
• Aid and encourage the development of State lands for housing for all socio-economic
levels through leasehold or purchase.
4.3.3.3 Worth Filo
• Coordinate and participate with the State and Federal governments in providing rural
housing programs for low and moderate income families, "gap groups" and the
elderly. A'
4.3.3.4 Hcimalkua
• Aid and encourage programs to rehabilitate and replace the existing housing
inventory, including consideration for self-help programs.
4.3.3.5 North Kohala
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-11
• Require developments that create a demand for employee housing provide for that
need.
• Aid and encourage programs to rehabilitate and replace the existing housing
inventory, including consideration for self-help programs.
4.3.3.6 South Kohala
• Require developments that create a demand for employee housing provide for that
need.
• Aid and encourage the development of State lands for housing for all socioeconomic
levels through leasehold or purchase.
• Aid and encourage housing programs for low and moderate income, "gap groups"
and the elderly.
• County -owned land at Waikoloa Village shall be made available for the development
of affordable housing.
4.3.3.7 North Kona
• Encourage the use of innovative types of housing developments, such as cluster and
planned unit developments, that take advantage of the steep topographic conditions.
• Require developments that create a demand for employee housing provide for that
need.
• Increase affordable housing opportunities in the Kailua-Kona area.
4.3.3.8 South Kora
• Encourage the use of innovative types of housing developments, such as cluster and
planned unit developments, that take advantage of the steep topographic conditions.
• Increase affordable housing opportunities in South Kona.
4.3.3.9 Ka`j
• Require developments that create a demand for employee housing provide for that
need.
COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL PLAN • 4-12
AREAS OF NATURAL BEAUTY BY AHUPUKA OR REGION
Note: The potential areas of natural beauty listed on this table are intended for planning and
program purposes.
4.4 INFRASTRUCTURE ELEMENT
4.4.1 Public Facilities
Public facilities are those infrastructure service systems that are provided, staffed, and
maintained by government to directly serve the residents of the County. Public facilities have
been grouped into categories of education, government operations, health and sanitation, parks
and recreation, protective services, and transportation.
It is necessary to carefully coordinate the provision of public facilities in order to use them most
effectively and to maximize the effect of the public dollar. It is equally necessary to realize that
the type, quality, capacity and location of facilities and services have a significant impact on the
community, the people and the total environment.
4.4.1.1 Public Facilities Objectives
• Encourage the provision of public facilities in appropriate locations that effectively
service community and visitor needs.
• Seek ways of improving public service through better and more functional energy-
efficient facilities in keeping with the environmental and aesthetic concerns of the
community.
4.4.1.2 Public Facilities Policies
• Establish programs to identify and acquire sites for necessary public facilities in
advance of need.
• Encourage the construction of energy-efficient County facilities.
• Establish appropriate service levels for public facilities.
• Coordinate with appropriate State agencies for the provision of public facilities to
serve the needs of the community.
• Develop short- to long-range capital improvement programs and operating budgets
for public facilities and services.
• Capital improvement and operating budgets shall reflect the objectives and policies
of the County General Pian.
• Require a six-year, long-term, capital improvements budget by County departments
and agencies that shall be reviewed for consistency with the General Plan.
• Develop and adopt an Impact Fees Ordinance to fund identified public facilities.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: • 4-13
• Develop and adopt enabling financing mechanisms that could be used in conjunction
with programs to fund new or expand existing County public facilities.
4.4.1.3 Education
Public schools and libraries and their facilities planning are under the jurisdiction of the State
Department of Education.
Higher education is available through the University of Hawai'i at Hilo (UHH), the University of
Hawai°i Test HawaM Campus in Kona, and the Hawaii Community College. Long-range
development plans for each institution are performed by the school and approved by the State
Board of Regents.
Educational policies relate to the provision of facilities rather than programs, although it is
recognized that the facilities and programs are the tools necessary to improve total educational
service.
4.4.1.3.1 Education policies
• Coordinate school facility planning with the Department of Education and the
University of Hawaii to identify school sites.
• Encourage continuous joint pre -planning of schools with the Department of
Education and the University of Hawaii to ensure coordination of roads, water, and
other support facilities and considerations such as traffic and safety, and access for
vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian. Encourage master planning of present and
proposed public and private institutions.
• Encourage combining schoolyards with county parks and allowing school facilities to
be available for after school use by the community for recreational, cultural, and
other compatible uses.
• Encourage the Hawaii State Library System to seek alternate sites when public
libraries are located on the campuses of public schools.
4.4.1.4 Government Operations
This section discusses facilities housing various governmental agencies and baseyard
operations. Public office centers consist of a building or complex of buildings that house
governmental agencies. Baseyards are the operational, storage and maintenance centers for
public works services, such as those provided by the road and water departments. These
baseyards also serve as agency field offices.
4.4.1.4.1 Government Operation Policies
• Public office center sites shall satisfy modern and reasonable requirements of
accessibility and compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood.
• The multipurpose concept of flexibility to satisfy changing requirements should be
part of the design for public buildings.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI°I GENERAL PLAN • 4-14
• Architecture and landscaping shall reflect the community's attributes as much as
possible.
4.4.1.3 Health and Sanitation
4.4.1.5.1 Hospitals
Actual planning of health programs and construction of health facilities are the direct
responsibility of the State.
The role of State and private hospitals are determined by the island's geography and population
distribution and the community to be served. Major medical and surgical care, specialty care,
out-patient care, long-term care and/or emergency services may be available at the hospitals.
The County's Fire Department provides emergency medical and ambulance services.
4.4.1.5.1.1 Hospital Policies
• Encourage the planning, site identification, and development of new health care
facilities or the improvement of existing health care facilities to serve the needs of
ilamakua, North and South Kohala, and North and South Kona. Site planning shall
consider quiet surroundings, convenient and adequate access, and computability of
adjoining uses.
Encourage the State to continue operation of the rural hospitals.
• Encourage the establishment or expansion of community health centers and rural
health clinics.
4.4.1.5.2 Public Cemeteries
Public cemeteries and veterans cemeteries are managed by the County Parks and
Recreation Department.
4.4.1.5.2.1 Public Cemeteries Policies
Develop and implement a cemeteries master plan for the siting of future cemeteries.
• Ensure that public and private cemeteries are compatible with surrounding land uses
and provided with adequate access and drainage systems.
4.4,1.5,3 Solid Waste Management
The management of solid waste on the island has undergone significant changes in the past
few decades. The adoption of the County's "Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan" in 1993,
as further updated, provides a foundation for decision-making that would guide solid waste
management funding, implementation and administration on the island. Recycling, waste
diversion, Hilo landfill closure, new technologies, and the question of a material recovery facility
are a few of the many issues examined in the °'Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan."
4.4.1.5.3.1 Solid Waste Management Policies
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY. 4-15
• Appropriately designed and cost-effective solid waste transfer station sites shall be
located in areas of convenience and easy access to the public.
• Continue to encourage diversion programs, such as recycling, to reduce the flow of
refuse deposited in landfills.
• Explore and evaluate waste reduction techniques, processes and facilities to
lengthen the life of the landfill(s) with energy conversion being a desirable
component.
• Encourage development and implementation of a green waste recycling program.
4.4.1.5.4 Wastewater
Adequate sewer disposal systems are vital to safeguard public health and to preserve the
environment. An adequate system is one that minimizes contamination of the ground water
supply and the coastal waters, beaches and waterborne recreational areas and is not a visual
and odor nuisance.
Although Hawaii County operates municipal sewerage systems, many communities are served
by private wastewater treatment facilities or individual facilities such as cesspools or septic
tanks. pause over half of the County's population is served by cesspools, there is an
increasing need to create a better system than individual cesspools, particularly in highly
urbanized and shoreline areas.
The State Department of Health and the County of Hawaii jointly prepared the "Water Quality
Management Plan for the County of Hawaii" in 1978 and subsequently updated the plan in
1980. This plan serves as the planning guide for development of regional waste treatment
systems and the control of non -point source pollution. To implement the management plan,
the County has prepared facility plans for various areas on the island. The facility plans identify
problems, potential solutions and costs.
4.4.1.5.4.1 Wastewater Policies
• Update the "Sewerage Study for All Urban and Urbanizing Areas of the County of
Hawaii, State of Hawaii," December 1970, and the "Water Quality Management Plan
for the County of Hawaii," December 1980.
• Private systems shall be installed by land developers for major resort and other
developments along shorelines and sensitive higher inland areas, except where
connection to nearby treatment facilities is feasible and compatible with the County's
long-range plans, and in conformance with State and County requirements.
• Designate treatment plant sites, sewerage pump station sites, and sewer easements
according to the facility plans to facilitate their acquisition.
• Seek State and Federal funds to finance the construction of proposed sewer systems
and improve existing systems.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL PLAN • 4-16
• Utilize plans for wastewater reclamation and reuse for irrigation and biosolids
composting (remaining solids from the treatment of wastewater is processed into a
reusable organic material) where feasible and needed.
4.4.1.5.4.2 Wastewater Standard(s)
• There shall be a minimum of visual and odor pollution emanating from sewerage
treatment facilities.
4.4.1.6 Parks and Recreation
Recreational facilities may be defined in two categories: Resource-based and Facility -based.
Resource-based parks provide public access to and enjoyment of an outstanding natural or
cultural resource. Valued resources include sandy beaches, non -sandy but protected swimming
areas, scenic areas and hiking areas. The Federal and State governments play a dominant role
in establishing resource-based parks such as the Hawal°i Volcanoes National Park and hlapuna
Beach State Park. Resource-based parks developed by the County are primarily beach parks.
The other park category is facility -based parks. These types of parks are primarily developed
by the County and provide for organized, spectator, or informal play recreational activities that
are not dependent upon a natural resource. Playfields, gymnasiums, swimming pool
complexes, and tennis courts are just some examples of facility -based parks.
4.4.1.6.1 Parks and Recreation Objectives
• Provide a wide variety of recreational opportunities for the residents and visitors of
the County.
• Maintain the natural beauty of resource-based recreation areas.
Provide a diversity of environments for active and passive pursuits.
4.4.1.6.2 Parks and Recreation Policies
• Strive to equitably allocate facility -based parks among the districts relative to
population using public input to determine the locations and types of facilities.
• Improve existing public facilities for optimum usage.
• Recreational facilities shall reflect the natural, historic, and cultural character of the
area.
• The use of land adjoining recreation areas shall be compatible with community
values, physical resources, and recreation potential.
• The "County of Hawaii Recreation Plan" shall be updated to reflect newly identified
recreational priorities.
• Develop short- and long-range capital improvement programs and plans for
recreational facilities that are consistent with the General Plan.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-17
• Provide multiple use facilities and a broad recreational program for all age groups,
with special considerations for the handicapped, the elderly, and young children.
• Coordinate recreational programs and facilities with governmental and private
agencies and organizations. Innovative ideas for improving recreational facilities and
opportunities shall be considered.
• Develop local citizen leadership and participation in recreation planning,
maintenance, and programming.
• Adopt an on-going program of identification, designation, and acquisition of areas
with existing or potential recreational resources, such as land with sandy beaches
and other prime areas for shoreline recreation, in cooperation with appropriate
governmental agencies.
• Public access to the shoreline and public hunting areas shall be provided in
accordance with an adopted program of the County of Hawaii.
• Develop a network of pedestrian access trails to places of scenic, historic, natural or
recreational values. This system of trails shall provide, at a minimum, an island -wide
route connecting major parks and destinations.
• Establish a program to inventory ancient trails, cart roads and old government roads
in coordination with the State.
• Develop facilities and safe pathway systems for walking, jogging, and biking
activities.
• Develop a recreation information dissemination system for the public's use.
• Consider alternative sources of funding for recreational facilities, including impact
fees.
4.4.1.6.3 Parks And Recreation Standards
• Regional Park: Is a major recreation area serving several districts and providing
indoor and outdoor activities. Is a major center for spectator sports and cultural
activities. May include features of historic, geological, and horticultural interests. In
the vicinity of major populated areas.
Facilities may include multi-purpose building, auditorium, gymnasium, swimming
pool, adequate parking, and facilities for spectator sports: football, baseball,
softball, track field, tennis, basketball and volleyball.
• District Park: Offers diversified types of recreational activities to an entire district
that includes indoor and outdoor sports. Located within a district consisting of
several populated communities.
Facilities may include gymnasium with office, storage, restrooms, showers, a center
for community and recreational programs, swimming pool, play area and equipment
COUNTY OF )FHAWAVI GENERAL PLAN • 4-18
for young children, courts for basketball, tennis, and volleyball, ballfields for soccer,
baseball, softball, and football; night lights, and parking.
• Community Park: Serves surrounding urban areas, and entire communities in rural
areas. Provides active and passive activities. Located within the center of the
community or several neighborhoods.
Facilities may include multi-purpose building, gymnasium (where not serviceable
from a district park), courts for basketball, volleyball and tennis, ballfields for
softball/baseball, soccer, football; play area and equipment for young children,
walking and jogging paths, picnic and passive area, night lights and parking.
• Neighborhood Park: Provides open space in urbanizing areas for the general
aesthetic enjoyment of the outdoors, play areas for young children, and a social
gathering place for the neighborhood. Located within the center of the
neighborhood and preferably adjacent to a school.
Facilities may include restrooms, drinking water, walking and jogging paths (bike
and skating paths), courts for basketball, volleyball and tennis, ballfields for
tetherbail, baseball/softball and soccer, play area and equipment for young children,
and parking.
• Community Center: Is a major center for spectator sports, cultural and social
activities. Size depends on facilities proposed and accessory uses.
Facilities may include multipurpose building, auditorium, gymnasium, facilities for
spectator sports, swimming facility, and parking.
• Parks for General Use: Are centered around a major natural asset, such as a sandy
beach, a prime forest, or a volcanic feature and includes historic sites whenever
feasible. Designed to accommodate users from throughout the County.
Beach parks provide opportunities for swimming/sunbathing, surfing, camping,
fishing, boating, nature study, and other pastimes. Every section of the island
should be adequately served. Facilities depend on size and intensity of use but
should include restrooms with showers, picnic facilities, a defined tent camping area
when allowed, drinking water, parking, pavilions of various sizes, and lifeguard
facilities.
Wilderness and wildland areas are remote from population centers and have limited
access by jeep, hiking, biking, or horseback. Facilities may include trails and
unimproved roads, designated hunting and fishing areas, designated conservation
areas for nature study and other passive activities, and wilderness camp sites.
4.4.1.7 Protective Services
Protective services consist of fire, police, detention and correctional facilities, civil defense, the
Coast Guard, and National Guard armories. The scattered and small population centers on the
island generally make protective services difficult in terms of effectively providing fire and police
coverage.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-19
The County's fire stations and volunteer fire stations offer a varied degree of services to
communities throughout the island: 24-hour fire fighting, emergency medical services, rescue,
hazardous waste response and special services. Its emergency medical ambulance services are
contracted with the State Department of Health.
The Hawai'i County Police Department is charged with enforcing all laws of the state and
ordinances of the County related to criminal actions, preserving the public peace, preventing
crime, detecting and arresting law offenders, protecting people and property.
The State Department of Public Safety operates correctional facilities for the confinement of
pretrial inmates and convicted offenders, and intake service centers for the supervision of
offenders. An array of rehabilitative programs is available through the correctional facilities and
intake service centers. Detention has become the responsibility of the County Police
Department.
The Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency directs and coordinates the development and
administration of the County's total disaster preparedness and response program to ensure
prompt and effective action when natural or man -caused disaster threatens or occurs anywhere
in the County.
The United States Coast Guard provides ocean rescue and navigation services, and the National
Guard armories are State and Federally funded facilities housing the State militia.
4.4.1.7.1 Protective Services Policies
• Develop police and fire facilities as joint use structures, whenever feasible, sited to
permit quick and efficient vehicular access.
• Plan and develop volunteer fire facilities in appropriate locations to be replaced or to
co -exist with full-time Fire/EMS personnel.
• Police headquarters shall be located near the geographic center of the service area
and near concentrations of commercial and industrial use.
• Police and fire stations in outlying districts shall be based on the population to be
served and response time rather than on geographic district.
• Encourage the further development and expansion of community policing programs
and neighborhood and farm watch programs in urban, rural and agricultural
communities.
• Encourage continued state funding of emergency medical helicopters.
• Consider the proximity to fire stations in approving any rezoning to permit urban
development.
• The Fire Department, in cooperating with other related governmental agencies and
the involved land owners, shall prepare a fire protection and prevention plan for
forest reserves and other natural areas.
• Consider adoption of impact fees to support police and fire facilities.
COUNTY OF HAWAPI GENERAL PLAN • 4-20
• Encourage the State to emphasize rehabilitation in correctional facilities and to
establish additional rehabilitation and counseling centers, including drug and
behavioral treatment facilities in secure settings, when necessary.
• The County of Hawaii Emergency Operations Center shall be improved to meet the
requirements set forth by Federal and State regulations.
• Develop a database of disasters and events from disaster assessment reports to
assist the County and State in identifying mitigation measures and funding priorities
for improvements.
• Educate the public regarding disaster preparedness and response, especially proper
responses for sudden impact hazards.
• Encourage the State to evaluate the disaster shelters' ability to withstand various
natural disasters and upgrade or build new shelters as appropriate.
4.4.1.7.2 Protective Service Standards
• 2.5 police officers per 1,000 resident population.
Fire stations within five miles of concentrated settlement areas.
Provide first response emergency medical service within eight minutes of
concentrated settlement areas. Alternative means, such as training police officers or
volunteer fire personnel, could be available to provide first response.
4.4.1.8 'Transportation
Transportation is the systems and modes of conveyance of people and goods from place to
place. It can be considered the major infrastructural element of an area. The different
elements of the transportation system ideally need to be planned through an integrated and
comprehensive process that includes land use planning. The coordinated planning of
transportation facilities requires an understanding of the characteristics of the modes of
conveyance and the patterns and densities of the area that they are intended to serve.
4.4.1.5.1 Transportation Objectives
• Provide a transportation system whereby people and goods can move efficiently,
safely, comfortably and economically.
• Make available a variety of modes of transportation that best meets the needs of the
public.
4.4.1.8,2 Transportation Policies
• Establish a framework of transportation facilities with affected agencies that will
promote and influence desired land uses.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-21
• The agencies concerned with transportation systems shall provide for present traffic
and future demands, including the programmed development of mass transit
programs for high growth areas by both the private and public sectors.
• Consider the provision of adequate transportation systems to enhance the economic
viability of a given area.
• Develop a comprehensive, island -wide multi -modal transportation plan that identifies
the location and operation of automobile, mass transit, bicycle and pedestrian
systems, in coordination with appropriate Federal and State agencies.
• Work with various non-profit agencies to coordinate transportation opportunities.
+4.4.1.8.2.1 Airports and Harbors
The principal concerns of planning transportation terminals are location, provision of adequate
transportation connections to terminals, financing and programming of improvements and
services through capital improvement projects, and the planning and zoning of adjacent land
uses.
Although the State Department of Transportation is responsible for the actual design,
construction and operation of terminals and supporting facilities, the General Plan addresses the
location of these facilities in relation to the pattern of overall land uses.
4.4.1.8.2.1.1 Airports and Harbors policies
• Encourage the programmed improvement of existing terminals, including adequate
provisions for control of pollution and appropriate and adequate covered storage
facilities for agricultural products.
• Encourage the State Department of Transportation to implement its plans for
transportation terminals and related facilities to promote and influence desired land
use policies.
• Transportation terminals should be developed in conjunction with the different
elements of the overall transportation system.
• Encourage maximum use of the island's airport and harbor facilities.
• Encourage the development, maintenance, and enhancement of Hilo and Kawaihae
Harbors as detailed within the State's Harbors Master Plan.
• Support the State's objectives to acquire rights within the runway clear -zones, limit
heights within approach zones, and restrict noise -sensitive uses within designated
noise contours determined by the State.
4.4.1.8.2.2 Mass Transit
The public mass transit system is operated and managed by the County. Taxi service is
regulated by the County.
COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL PLAN 9 4-22
4.4.1.8.2.2,1 Mass Transit Objective
• Provide residents with a variety of public transportation systems that are affordable,
efficient, accessible, safe, environmentally friendly, and reliable.
4.4.1.8.2.2.2 Mass Transit Policies
Improve the integration of transportation and land use planning in order to optimize
the use, efficiency, and accessibility of existing and proposed mass transportation
systems.
• Support and encourage the development of alternative modes of transportation,
such as enhanced bus services and bicycle paths.
• Enhance the mobility of minors, non -licensed adults, low-income, elderly, and people
with disabilities through the coordination and provision of public and private non-
profit transportation.
4.4.1.8.2.3 Roadways
In planning vehicular transportation, the various systems take into consideration activities or
land uses that will continue to generate traffic. New major highways are expected to create
new and productive land uses in appropriate locations. roadways must be planned with other
transportation elements, as all contribute to the total movement of people and goods.
4.4.1.8,2.3.1 Roadway Objective
• Provide an integrated State and County roadway system so that new major routes
will complement and encourage proposed land uses.
4.4.1.8.2.3.2 Roadway Policies
• Encourage the programmed improvement of existing roadways by both public and
private sectors.
• Investigate various methods of funding road improvements, including private sector
participation, to meet the growing transportation needs of the island.
• Encourage the State to establish a continuous State highway system connecting the
County's major airports and harbors.
• Support the development of programs to identify and improve hazardous and
substandard sections of roadway and drainage problems.
• Coordinate with appropriate Federal and State agencies for the funding of
transportation projects for areas of anticipated growth.
• Consider the development of alternative means of transportation, such as mass
transit, bicycle and pedestrian systems, as a means to increase arterial capacity.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-23
• Coordinate the planning of Federal, State, and County street systems to meet
program objectives of the other General Plan elements.
• Provisions for on -street parking shall be incorporated into the design of street
systems.
• Encourage the State Department of Transportation to establish special scenic routes
within and between communities.
• Integrate transportation and drainage systems where feasible.
• Support the development of an efficient transit route between east and west Hawai'i.
• Adopt street design standards that accommodate, where appropriate, flexibility in
the design of streets to preserve the rural character of an area and encourage a
pedestrian -friendly design, including landscaping and planted medians.
• Develop minimum street standards for homestead and other currently substandard
roadways that are offered for dedication to the County to ensure minimal levels of
public safety.
• Explore means and opportunities to enhance the shared use of the island's roadways
by pedestrians and bicyclists, in coordination with appropriate government agencies
and organizations.
• Update the "Bikeway Plan for the County of Hawaii" (1979) to include the
development of a safe and usable bikeway system throughout the island.
• Work in conjunction with the State to establish a clear agreement of the ownership
and maintenance of the old homestead roads.
• Develop short- and long-range capital improvement programs and plans for
transportation that are consistent with the General Plan.
• The County shall determine standards for the dedication and upgrade of existing
roads.
4.4.1.8.2.3.3 Roadway Standards
Roadway definitions and standards for new roadway construction:
• PrimaryArterial: Includes major highways, parkways, and primary arterials that
move vehicles in large volumes and at higher speeds from one geographic area to
another; highest traffic volume corridor. Designed as a limited access roadway.
Primary arterials shall have a minimum right-of-way of 120 feet.
• SecondaryArterial: A street of considerable continuity that is primarily a traffic
artery between or through large areas; interconnect with and augment primary
system. Designed as a limited access roadway. Secondary arterials shall have a
minimum right-of-way of 00 feet.
COUNTY OF IIAAWAI I GENERAL PLAN • 4-24
• Major Collector: Any street supplementary to the arterial street system that is a
means of transit between this system and smaller areas; used to some extent for
through traffic and to abutting properties; collect and distribute traffic between
neighborhood and arterial system. Major collectors shall have a minimum right-of-
way of 60 feet.
• Local Streets-commercial/industrial: Local streets within commercial and industrial
areas shall have a minimum right-of-way of 60 feet.
• Minor Collector and Local Streets: Minor collectors are used at times as through -
streets and for access to abutting properties. The principal purpose of a local street
is to provide access to property abutting the public right-of-way.
4.4.2 Utilities and Energy
For the foreseeable future, Hawaii will continue to be dependent on petroleum to meet its
energy demands. Fortunately, Hawaii is endowed with a variety of natural energy resources
that are renewable for low polluting sources of electricity. Hawaii's dependence on imported
petroleum provides the incentive for the promotion of energy efficiency and the development of
technologies to harness natural energy resources (solar, hydrologic, wind, and geothermal), and
to convert solid waste into a fuel resource.
Public utilities are services regulated by government and provided in response to existing and
prospective patterns of development. Changes in land use, population density, and
development usually generate changes in the demand and supply of utilities.
This section is concerned with the planning aspects of natural energy resources and its
conversion to electricity; gas; telecommunications; and water.
4.4.2.1 Utiities and Energy Objectives
• Ensure that adequate, efficient and dependable utility services are available to users.
• Encourage maximum efficiency and economy in the provision of public utility
services.
• Ensure that public utility facilities are designed to fit into their surroundings or are
concealed from public view.
• Encourage the co -location of multiple utilities in designated corridors.
• Strive towards energy self-sufficiency.
• Support the establishment of the Big Island as a demonstration community for the
development and use of natural energy resources while ensuring the proper balance
of the preservation of environmental fitness and ecologically significant areas.
4.4.2,2 Utilities and Energy Policies
• Provide utilities and service facilities that minimize total cost to the public and
effectively service the needs of the community.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-25
• Design utility facilities to minimize conflict with the environment and natural
resources.
• Upgrade existing utility services to meet the needs of users.
• Encourage the clustering of developments in order to reduce the cost of providing
utilities.
• Short- and long-range capital improvement programs and plans for public utilities
within the County's jurisdiction shall be consistent with the General Plan.
• Designate a corridor for the co -location of multiple utilities in appropriate areas.
• Strive to assure a sufficient supply of energy to support present and future demands
by:
(1) Encouraging expansion of the energy industry and the development of
alternate energy resources.
(2) Educating the public on new energy technologies and energy-saving building
designs that would foster energy conservation.
(3) Coordinating government and private sector research and funding initiatives.
(4) Encouraging the use of agricultural products and by-products as sources of
alternate fuel.
(5) Supporting programs that provide tax, construction, net -metering, and other
incentives.
• Support programs that seek funding from both government and private sources for
research and development of alternative energy resources.
• Encourage the continuation of studies concerning the development of power sources
that can be distributed at lower costs to consumers.
• Encourage the continued development of geothermal resources to meet the energy
needs of the County of Hawaii.
4.4.2.3 Electricity
Electricity for the County of Hawaii is supplied by the Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc.
(HELCO). HELCO purchases its power from privately -owned companies and supplements the
balance through. HELCO-owned steam units, diesel units, and gas turbines.
The Sig Island has a potential to use more alternative energy in the form of geothermal, hydro,
wind, solar thermal and photovoltaic systems. These sources have been included in HELCO°s
Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) process. The goal of integrated resource planning is the
identification of the resources or the mix of resources for meeting near- and long-term
consumer energy needs in an efficient and reliable manner at the lowest reasonable cost
including the need and timing of any new generation and new cross -island transmission lines.
COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL PLAN 9 4-26
4.4.2.3.1 (Electricity Policies
• Power distribution shall be placed underground when and where practical.
Encourage developers of new urban areas to place utilities underground.
• Route selection for high voltage transmission lines should include consideration for
setbacks from major thoroughfares and residential areas. Where feasible, delineate
energy corridors for such high voltage transmission lines.
• Advise the electrical utility companies on the future revisions of their comprehensive
Integrated Resource Plans.
• Minimize obstruction of scenic views and vistas by electrical facilities.
• Facilities such as substations shall mitigate and minimize any aesthetic impacts to
surrounding properties and scenic vistas.
4.4.2.4 Gas
The Public Utilities Commission regulates gas mains and service lines on the Big Island.
However, the provision of gas service by tank or cylinder is not regulated.
Propane gas is widely used on the island of Hawai°i. In some rural areas of the County, gas is
the only source of power.
4.4.2.4.1 Gas Policy
• Gas storage facilities shall be located to minimize danger to commercial and
residential areas.
4.4.2.5 'Telecommunications
The State Public Utilities Commission regulates telecommunications services statewide.
4.4.2.5.1 Telecommunications Policies
• Encourage underground telephone lines where they are economically and technically
feasible.
• Work closely with the telephone company to provide all users with efficient service.
• Work with the telecommunications industry to increase the availability of emergency
telephones throughout the island.
• Develop standards for the construction of wireless telecommunication facilities.
• In the development and placement of telephone facilities, such as lines,
telecommunications and cellular towers, poles, and substations, the design of the
facilities shall consider the existing environment, and scenic view and vistas shall be
considered and preserved where possible.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-27
4.4.2.6 Water
The availability of water is crucial to any type of development, whether urban, rural, or
agricultural. Land use allocation therefore must be closely related to water availability,
including the quantity and quality of the water, and the adequacy of the transmission and
distribution system.
Sources of water supply include ground water aquifers (via wells) and surface water (springs,
streams, and tunnels).
The demand for water is directly related to population. Demand does not represent domestic
consumption alone, but also includes all agricultural, industrial and commercial uses, fare
protection, and other uses. In some areas, however, non-domestic users are likely to create
the major demand, and careful attention must therefore be given in any study of probable
future water needs.
The delivery of domestic water on the island may be accomplished by the County Department
of Water Supply or private systems. Domestic water must comply with the Federal Safe
Drinking Water Act (SDWA) administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency through
the State Department of Health. Many systems, though adequate to fulfill domestic needs, are
inadequate for fire protection and do not meet the needs of current agricultural production.
The State Department of Land and Natural resources, Division of Land and Water
Development, also has the capacity to explore and develop new ground water sources. The
County has in the past depended upon this agency for source development. The development
of new sources requires the cooperation between State and County agencies in the delivery of
municipal water systems.
In addition, individual rainwater catchment systems are used in areas where public and private
systems are not available, primarily subdivisions approved prior to the adoption of the
Subdivision Control Code. Most catchment systems are inadequate for fire protection, and are
supplemented by trucking or public spigots during drought periods.
4.4.2.6.1 WATER POLICIES
• Water system improvements shall correlate with the County's desired land use
development pattern.
• Design and build public and private water systems to Department of Water Supply
standards.
• Improve and replace inadequate systems.
• Water sources shall be adequately protected to prevent depletion and contamination
from natural and man-made occurrences or events.
• Water system improvements should be first installed in areas that have established
needs and characteristics, such as occupied dwellings, agricultural operations and
other uses, or in areas adjacent to them if there is need for urban expansion.
COUNTS' OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL PLAN 9 4-28
• A coordinated effort by County, State and private interests shall be developed to
identify sources of additional water supply and shall be implemented to ensure the
development of sufficient quantities of water for existing and future needs of high
growth areas.
• Coordinate fire prevention systems with water distribution systems in order to
ensure water supplies for fire protection purposes.
• Develop and adopt standards for individual water catchment units.
• Cooperate with the State Department of Health to develop standards and/or
guidelines for the construction and use of rainwater catchment systems to minimize
the intrusion of any chemical and microbiological contaminants.
• Cooperate with appropriate State and Federal agencies and the private sector to
develop, improve and expand agricultural water systems in appropriate areas on the
island.
• Promote the use of ground water sources to meet State Department of Health water
quality standards.
• Participate in the United States Geological Survey's exploratory well drilling program.
• Seek State and Federal funds to assist in financing projects to bring the County into
compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act.
• Develop and adopt a water master plan that will consider water yield, present and
future demand, alternative sources of water, guidelines and policies for the issuance
of water commitments.
• Encourage the state to expand programs for the delivery of agricultural irrigation
water.
4.4.3 District Courses of Action
4.4.3.1 Puna
4.4.3.1.2 Education
• Improve existing school complexes to meet the standards established by the State
Department of Education.
• School facilities should be made available to the community for recreation and other
compatible uses during after school hours.
• Encourage the Department of Education to plan and develop school facilities as the
need arises.
• Encourage improvements to pedestrian access between the village of Pahoa and the
school and library facilities.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY* 4-29
4.4.3.1.3 Government Operations
•Expand/improve facilities as necessary.
4.4.3.14 Cemeteries
• Maintenance of cemetery sites shall be improved.
4.4.3.1.5 Sold Waste
• Provide additional solid waste transfer stations as the need arises.
4.4.3.1.6 Wastewater
• The use of cesspools shall be discontinued in the coastal areas where cesspools do
not function satisfactorily to meet water quality standards. Individual household
aerobic treatment units approved by the State Health Department and the County of
Hawaii could be utilized in these areas. Future sewerage systems for the Puna area
would then naturally commence with service to the lower coastal areas.
• Coordinate with W.H. Shipman Ltd. in the planning and development of a sewerage
system for the Keaau area.
4.4.3.1.7 Recreation
• As the population increases and need arises, neighborhood parks in large
subdivisions between Keaau and Pahoa should be provided and improved.
• Encourage the State to establish a park reserve on State-owned land east of Kaimu.
• Recommend the establishment of beach reserves at Kehena Beach and Opihikao
(west of Opihikao junction).
• Recommend that the State expand the MacKenzie State Recreation Area.
• Develop the expanded Isaac Hale Beach Park recreation area. Provide trail access to
Keahialaka Spring and Pond and Mahinaakaka Heiau.
• Develop the Kapoho Tidepools as a marine park.
• Establish a small scenic park overlooking Kapoho and provide minimum facilities.
• Develop recreational areas along the coast between Hilo and Kapoho, including
areas at Papai, Haena (Keaau), Kaloli Point, Keonepoko Nui, Honolulu Landing, and
Nanawale.
• Establish small scenic viewpoints along the Puna Road to overlook the rift zone and
Kaueleau, Keekee and the 1955 flows.
• Explore means to maximize the use of the Pahoa Neighborhood Facility site to serve
the recreational needs of the lower Puna area.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI°I GENERAL PLAN • 4-30
4.4.3.1.8 protective Services
• A review of the possibility of 24-hour fire and emergency medical service for the
entire district should be conducted and expansion of the public office facilities should
be considered in accord with district needs.
• Police services and facilities should be expanded to adequately meet the needs of
the district.
4.4.3.1.9 Airports &Harbors
• Provide general aviation and small boat harbor facilities as the need arises.
• Provide another small boat launching facility at Kapoho.
4.4.3.1.10 Roadways
• Explore the possibility of developing a mid-level roadway to be located makai of
Highway 130, beginning at Hawaiian Beaches Subdivision and extending through
Hawaiian Paradise Park Subdivision with its eventual connection to Railroad Avenue
in South Hilo. Consider the establishment of a bikeway along the same alignment.
• Consider, in conjunction with community associations and the property owners, the
use of a variety of mechanisms to provide infrastructure in non -conforming
subdivisions, beginning with the major roads providing access into the more densely
populated subdivisions.
4.4.3.1.11 Water
• Continue to improve inadequate water system facilities.
• Water source investigation and exploration should be continued in order to provide
service for anticipated needs.
• Investigate additional groundwater sources in the Olaa area.
• Investigate alternative means to finance the extension of water systems to
subdivisions that rely on catchment.
4.4.3.2 South Hilo
4.4.3.2.1 Education
• Encourage the establishment of additional schools as the need arises.
• Participate in the development of student and faculty housing for the university and
other joint -use facilities.
• Provide pedestrian walkways to and around all school complexes.
• Support the continued expansion of the University system and the University of
HawaN at Hilo and Hawaii Community College campus and encourage the
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-31
continuing education programs throughout the community. The transfer of State
lands to the University should be actively pursued.
• Encourage continual improvements to existing educational facilities.
• Support and encourage the strengthening of the University of Hawaii at Hilo through
the transfer of appropriate colleges and departments from the University of Hawai'i
at Manoa to the University of Hawaii at Hilo.
• Encourage the implementation of existing State and University of Hawaii plans for
the continued development of the "Research and Technology Park" on the campus
of the University of Hawaii at Hilo.
4.4.3.2.2 Government Operations
• Consolidate government offices in a public office center.
• Improvements to County baseyard facilities shall be undertaken.
4.4.3.2.3 Hospitals
• Improvement and expansion of hospital facilities shall be undertaken as the need
arises.
4.4.3.2.4 Cemeteries
• Expansion of existing cemeteries or creation of new sites shall be undertaken.
4.4.3.2.5 Wastewater
• Encourage the State Department of Health to monitor the wastewater received to
provide sufficient base line data regarding the need for any future extension or
expansion of waste water collection systems.
• Expand the existing sewer collection system to include all densely populated areas in
and around Hilo.
Upgrade and/or rehabilitate aging sewer pump stations and collector sewers.
4.4.3.2.6 Recreation
• Maintain Clem Akina Park, Gilbert Carvalho Park, Keikiland Playground and Wainaku
Camp 2 Field as community recreation centers.
• Improve Kalakaua Park as an open space amenity and the focal point of the
Kalakaua Park Heritage Area.
• Encourage the development of a park along both sides of the Wailuku River in the
central business district of Hilo and provide major viewpoints with pedestrian
walkways and benches.
COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL PLAN • 4-32
• Community and/or neighborhood recreational areas should be provided in areas
such as Piihonua, upper Ponahawai, Kaumana-Ainako, upper Kaumana, Haihai, and
upper yl/aiakea.
• Develop urban commercial areas with landscaped parks for passive recreation.
• Expand the depth of coastal recreation areas. Park areas should be connected with
trails to increase public access.
• Develop the coastal area between Lehia and Lihikai for use.
• Develop Reed's Bay for more intensive water -oriented recreation.
• Encourage the State to develop a small boat harbor and additional moorage
facilities.
• Develop Kuhio Bay and the Baker's Beach area as a public recreational facility.
• Encourage the implementation of the "Environmental and Urban Design Proposals,
East Hawaii Project, City of Hilo," and the "Downtown Hilo Redevelopment Plan" for
the Kaiko'o and Bayfront areas. This includes the deepening of Waiolama Canal, the
development of the proposed Waiolama River State Park, the elimination of Bayfront
Highway and the widening and realigning of Kamehameha Avenue, and the
establishment of botanical gardens.
• Provide trail and access systems to recreational areas.
• Develop a center/complex for major cultural, educational and recreational activities.
• Develop a second municipal golf course.
• Return Kaumana Caves County Park, a natural resource recreation area, to the
jurisdiction of the State.
4.4.3.2.7 Protective Services
• Expansion of Police, Fire, and emergency medical facilities should be considered in
accordance with district needs.
4.4.3.2.8 Airports & Harbors
• Under the guidance of the Federal government, the State Department of Health
should enforce and strengthen present pollution regulations.
• The State Department of Transportation should continue to improve facilities at Hilo
Harbor to meet increased shipping activities and cruise ship passenger arrivals.
• Future land uses in the vicinity of the Hilo International Airport should have an
adequate open space buffer and/or be compatible with the anticipated aircraft noise
exposure levels for that vicinity.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-33
• Encourage the construction of an Agricultural Processing and Packing Center at the
old Milo Airport, the planning of which shall be coordinated with future development
plans for Hilo Harbor.
• Encourage the construction of a centralized air cargo distribution complex at the Hilo
International Airport.
• Encourage development of a small boat harbor for the area.
4.4.3.2.9 Roadways
• Portions of the old Mamalahoa Highway, especially those serving Pepeekeo and
Honomu, should be improved to provide a secondary north -south route along the
Hamakua coast.
• Major east -west collector roads between the old Mamalahoa Highway and the Belt
Highway and those serving upper homestead areas should be widened and
improved.
A realignment of Highway 200 (Saddle Road) from the Forest Reserve boundary on
the south side of Kaumana Drive and along the north side of Puainako Street,
intersecting the present Puainako alignment at Kinoole Street and continuing to the
intersection of Kanoelehua Avenue should be constructed. Limited access control is
recommended with intersections at the major cross arterials serving the various
areas of the city.
• Construct the proposed improvements and extension of Highway 200 (Saddle Road)
from Kaumana Drive to the Queen Kaahumanu Highway in South Kohala.
• Widen and provide curb, gutter and sidewalk improvements along Kilauea Avenue
from Haihai Street to Ponahawai Street.
• Widen and provide curb, gutter and sidewalk improvements along Kinoole Street
from Haihai Street to ®Iona Street.
• An extension of Puainako Street east of Kanoelehua should be the main route from
the airport terminal for direct access to the business district.
• Widen and improve Kekuanaoa Street from Kanoelehua Avenue to Kilauea Avenue.
• Pian for the eventual closure of the Bayfront Highway and the relocation of the
existing Highway 19-Pauahi Street intersection to an area in the vicinity of
Ponahawai Street, in coordination with the State.
• Ainako Street should extend across Kaumana Drive to meet the Mohouli extension to
provide one of the major mauka cross -city connections.
• Improve Akolea Road between Piihonua and Kaumana Drive and construct its
extension to the upper reaches of Ainaola Drive to provide a cross -city connection
between Upper Wailuku and Waiakea-Uka.
COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL PLAN • 4-34
• Improve Waianuenue Avenue and Kaumana Drive along their entire alignments,
@g
including the acquisition of additional rights-of-way as needed.
4.4.3.2:1Q Water
• Continue to implement water system maintenance and improvement programs in
order to provide the city with a dependable and consistently safe drinking water
supply.
• Investigate groundwater sources in the upper Waiakea Uka, Kaieie Mauka,
Kulaimano, Saddle Road, and Honomu areas.
• Further investigate future ground water resources.
• Replace existing surface sources with groundwater sources to meet State
Department of Health standards.
4.4.3.3 North Hilo
4.4.3.3.1 Education
• Improve pedestrian and vehicular access to the Laupahoehoe and Hamakua School
complexes.
• Encourage continual improvements to existing educational facilities.
4.4.3,3.2 Government Operations
• Expand/improve facilities as necessary.
4.4.3.3.3 Cemeteries
Maintenance of cemeteries shall be improved.
4.4.3.3.4 Wastewater
Continue operation of the existing sewerage system at Kapehu.
4.4.3.3.5 Recreation
• Implement the Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park master plan.
• Improve the boat launching facilities at Laupahoehoe Peninsula by encouraging the
Army Corps of Engineers to extend the breakwater.
4.4.3.3,6 Protective Services
• Service facilities shall be improved to meet needs.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-35
4.4.3.3.7 Airports & (Harbors
• Continue to improve the small boat ramp at Laupahoehoe, extend the offshore
protective structure, and provide for adequate parking.
4.4.3.3.8 Roadways
• Restore and maintain existing homestead roads.
• Encourage the State Department of Transportation to improve those portions of the
Hawaii Belt Highway at Maulua, Laupahoehoe and Kaawalii Gulches.
• Encourage the State Department of Transportation to realign that portion of the
Hawaii Belt Highway at Kapehu Camp.
• Encourage the State to install additional passing lanes at various sections along
Highway 19.
4.4.3.3.9 Water
• Replace old, substandard, or deteriorating lines and storage facilities.
• Develop a standby well for the Ookala system.
4.4.3.4 Hfimcikua
4.4.3.4.1 Education
• Encourage continual improvements to existing educational facilities.
• Encourage traffic re-routing to resolve school traffic problems.
• Implement the Honokaa school campus master plan.
• Encourage expansion of the present library facility and services.
4.4.3.4.2 Government Orations
• Multi -use buildings housing public office center facilities shall be encouraged in
overall improvements and expansion plans.
4.4.3.4.3 Cemeteries
• Maintenance of the cemeteries shall be improved.
4.4.3.4.4 Wastewater
• Investigate possible alternatives to eliminate the need for and continued use of the
oxidation ponds.
COUNTY OF HAWAVI GENERAL PLAN • 4-36
4.4.3.4.5 Recreation
• Construct multipurpose rooms adjacent to the gymnasium in Honokaa Park to
accommodate community meetings and functions.
• Encourage the recreational development of Waipio and Waimanu Valleys as natural
and wilderness areas. Encourage the State to provide small recreation sites on the
edge of Waipio Valley.
• Encourage the development of a general use park in the Kaao-Ahualoa section of the
Hamakua Forest Reserve.
• Encourage the State to develop a scenic park on the Kohala side of Hiilawe f=alls in
conjunction with the development of the scenic highway.
4.4.3.4.6 Protective Services
• Service facilities shall be improved to meet needs.
4.4.3.4,7 Airports & Harbors
• Continue to improve the small boat ramp at Laupahoehoe, extend the offshore
protective structure, and provide for adequate parking.
4=4.3.4.8 Roadways
• Encourage the State to install additional passing lanes along Highway 19 at
appropriate locations.
• Provide for an industrial traffic connection leading from the former sugar mill to
Highway 19, separating this traffic from local traffic movement on Mamane Street.
• Encourage the State to construct a scenic highway from the Waipio Valley lookout
extending mauka to connect to Mud Lane at the entrance of Waimea.
• Improve County maintained roads and encourage the improvement of non -county
owned roads by the State of Hawaii or private landowner.
• Consider alternatives in the management of Pakalana Street, such as its conveyance
to the State Department of Education or its conversion to a one-way traffic pattern.
• Provide a cross-town connection to Plumeria Street by extending Kamani Street.
• Provide a mauka-makai connection from the Kamani Street extension to Mamane
Street on the Hilo side of the elderly housing.
• Eliminate the Milo Street extension on the Waipio side of Pakalana Street.
GENERAL, PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-37
4.4.3.4.9 Water
• Continue to coordinate programs with State and Federal agencies to develop a well
at Kukuihaele and Honokaa Hospital to the standards of the Department of Water
Supply.
• Replace old, sub -standard, or deteriorating lines and storage facilities.
• Investigate groundwater sources in the Honokaa and Kukuihaele areas.
4.4.3.5 North Kohala
4.4.3.5.1 Education
• Encourage the expansion of the public school and library facilities as needs arise.
• Encourage the Hawaii State Library System to establish a public library separate
from the school facility.
• Encourage continual improvements to existing educational facilities.
4.4.3.5.2 Government Operations
• Expand/improve facilities as necessary.
4.4.3.5.3 Cemeteries
Maintenance of the cemeteries shall be improved.
4.4.3.5.4 Recreation
• Expand facilities at Kapa ' a Beach Park.
• Encourage the State to further develop the Lapakahi complex as a historic park.
• Recommend the expansion of small boat harbor facilities at Mahukona Harbor.
• Expand the multi -use recreation areas at Mahukona and Kapaa Beach Parks.
• Encourage the State to dedicate approximately 12 acres of its lands surrounding
Mahukona Beach Park to the County to accommodate the expansion of Mahukona
Beach Park.
• Encourage the development of the Upolu Point area for recreation, including access
to fishing areas.
4.4.3.5.5 Protective Services
• Service facilities shall be improved to meet needs.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL PLAN • 4-38
4.4.3.5.6 Airports & Harbors
• Retain Upolu airfield for general aviation use.
• The State should continue to provide improvements to runway and terminal facilities
at Upolu Airport, including the improvement of the airport's access road from the
Akoni Pule Highway.
4.4.3.5.7 Roadways
• Encourage the improvement of the Kohala Mountain Road.
• Encourage the improvement of that portion of the Akoni Pule Highway between the
towns of Hawi to Niulii.
• Improve mauka-makai county maintained homestead roads and encourage
improvement of the non -county owned roads by the State of Hawaii or private
subdivisions.
4.4.3.5.8 Water
• Pursue a ground water source for the Makapala-Keokea water system.
• Explore further sources for future needs.
• Improve and replace inadequate distribution mains and storage facilities.
• Encourage efforts to improve the Kohala ditch system and its use for agricultural
purposes.
4.4.3.6 South Kohala
4.4.3.6.1 Education
• Encourage the expansion of the public school and library facilities as needs arise.
• Encourage continual improvements to existing educational facilities.
• Encourage the installation of walkways to and around schools and street crossing
facilities for pedestrian safety.
• Encourage the development of State and private higher educational facilities in West
Hawaii.
• Support the development of an intermediate or middle school in Waikoloa.
• Encourage the Hawao i State Library System to establish a public library in Waikoloa.
• Encourage the State Department of Education to explore the feasibility of
establishing a high school in the South Kohala district.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-39
4.4.3.6.2 Government Operations
• Expand/improve facilities as necessary.
• A civic center site shall be reserved at Waikoloa.
4.4.3.6.3 Sollidwaste
• A solid waste transfer site or alternative means of refuse collection should be
established for Waikoloa.
+4.4.3.6.4 Wastewater
• Construct a Waimea sewerage system to provide sewer service and wastewater
treatment facilities with an ultimate treatment capacity adequate for foreseeable
growth. Consider water reclamation or subsurface type disposal.
• Construct a sewerage system in the Puako beach lot area to service flows by utilizing
existing resort wastewater treatment facilities as a means of wastewater disposal.
4.4.3.6.5 Recreation
• Encourage the full implementation of the Hapuna Beach State Park Master Plan
including Wailea Bay Area.
• Improve picnic and camping facilities at Samuel M. Spencer Beach Park.
• Acquire and develop additional public shoreline recreation areas.
• Encourage the establishment of neighborhood parks.
• Ensure public use of and access to beach areas.
• Develop parking areas for Waimea Park.
• Develop additional recreational facilities in Waimea, including an approximate 30 -
acre regional park on land to be donated by Parker Ranch.
• Encourage the expansion of outdoor recreational areas around Waimea School.
• Develop recreational facilities in Waikoloa, including an enclosed community
center/sports complex.
• Develop trail systems linking residential areas to Waimea's urban center.
• Support the passive use of Church Row Park.
• Encourage development of Waimea Trails & Greenways and Waimea Nature Park
(Ulu Laau).
COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL PLAN • 4-40
4.4.3.6.6 Protective Services
• Service facilities shall be improved to meet needs.
4.4.3.6.7 Airports & harbors
• The State Department of Transportation should continue to provide improvements to
terminal and runway facilities at the Waimea-Kohala airport.
• The State Department of Transportation should continue to improve harbor facilities
at Kawaihae to meet increased shipping activities and cruise ship passenger arrivals.
• Continue to support the Department of Land and Natural Resources in its plans to
develop a small boat harbor at Kawaihae.
4.4.3.6.8 Roadways
• Improve existing homestead roads.
• Encourage the construction of a Waimea by-pass road from Mud Lane to Mamalahoa
Highway on the Kona side of Waimea.
• Encourage the construction of connector roads from the Waimea Bypass Road to the
Mamalahoa Highway.
• Encourage the construction of a new Waimea to Kawaihae road from Mamalahoa
Highway to the Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway.
• Encourage the widening of Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway as the need arises.
• Support the installation of suitable bikeways and/or jogging paths.
• To relieve traffic congestion through Waimea town, implement construction of a)
Parker Ranch's connector road from Kamamalu Street to Mamalahoa Highway; and
b) the County's extension of this road, between Mamalahoa Highway and Kawaihae
Road in the vicinity of the Waimea solid waste transfer station.
• Construct, at a minimum, one other paved two-lane access road out of the Ke Kumu
Housing area onto Paniolo Drive.
• Extend Paniolo Drive in Waikoloa north to intersect with the Kawaihae Road and the
proposed Waimea-Kawaihae Road.
• Provide traffic signals at the Waikoloa Road-Paniolo Drive intersection.
4.4.3.6.9 Nater
• Seek alternative sources of water for the Lalamilo system.
• Improve and replace inadequate distribution mains and steel tanks.
• Continue to seek additional groundwater sources for the Waimea System.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-41
4.4.3.7 North Iona
4.4.3.7.1 (Education
Encourage expansion of the Holualoa school complex to meet school district needs.
• Encourage the State Department of Education to add facilities as the need arises.
• Improve basic school facilities to meet current standards.
• Encourage construction of a new library facility to serve the Kailua-Keauhou area.
4.4.3.7.2 Govemment Operations
Expansion plans for the Kona public office center shall be undertaken.
• Consolidate County offices in one public office center.
• Designate a second urban center in West Hawai'i to facilitate government services
and centralize facilities.
4.4.3.7.3 Cemeteries
• New privately owned cemetery sites to serve future needs shall be sought.
4.4.3.7.4 Wastewater
• Expand the existing sewer collection system.
• Upgrade the Kealakehe Wastewater Treatment Plant to produce tertiary (R-1) quality
effluent.
4.4.3.7.5 Recreation
• Encourage the development of community and district recreational facilities, a
gymnasium and community center with easy access for residents.
• Encourage the development of Alii Drive within the Kailua Village area as a
pedestrian mall with open space areas for passive recreation.
• Improve facilities at Laaloa Bay Beach Park and Kahaluu Beach Park.
• Implement the development of the Kailua Park (Old Kona Airport) as a major
regional or district park.
• Encourage the development of a major multi-purpose regional recreational and
sports complex.
• Acquire, and/or encourage the development of additional public shoreline recreation
areas.
COUNTY OF IHAWAVI GENERAL PLAN • 4-42
• Establish public access to and the development of shoreline regions along the North
Kona Coast in areas such as Keawaiki, Kiholo Bay, Kaupulehu, Kukio and Kapapa
Bays, Kua Say, Kahoiawa, Makalawena, and Honokohau.
• Encourage the State to continue with the establishment of Kekaha Kai State Park
reaching into Mahaiula, Awakee, and Maniniowali Ahupuaa.
• Protect the marine life at Kahaluu Bay.
• Protect Opaeula, Kaloko, and Honokohau (Aimakapa) Ponds as natural areas.
• Encourage the development of historic trails.
• Develop a municipal golf course.
• Encourage the establishment of a historic park at Kamoa Point.
• Encourage the acquisition and establishment of the summit area of Hualalai as a
wilderness park.
• Increase mauka park lands.
4.4.3.7.6 Protective Services
• Service facilities shall be improved to meet needs.
4.4.3.7.7 Airports & Harbors
• Future land uses in the vicinity of the Kona International Airport at Keahole should
be compatible with the anticipated aircraft noise exposure levels for that vicinity.
• The State Department of Transportation should continue to improve and expand
Kona International Airport at Keahole in accordance with the recommendations of
the Keahole-Kona International Airport Master Plan Update Study (1997).
• Encourage the State to renovate the Kailua-Kona Wharf or to seek alternative
facilities to accommodate the cruise ship industry.
4.4.3.7.8 Roadways
• Develop a roadway network circulation plan in cooperation with the State
Department of Transportation and affected communities. Upon adoption of the
plan, the plan recommendations shall be incorporated on the zone district maps.
• Encourage the State to widen Queen Kaahumanu Highway as necessary to
accommodate increases in traffic flows, in particular between Kona International
Airport at Keahole and Kailua-Kona.
• Widen Palani Road between the proposed Keanalehu (Waena) Drive and the Queen
Kaahumanu Highway or construct the proposed Palani Bypass Highway.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-43
• Encourage the State to extend Kealakehe Parkway mauka to connect with the
Mamalahoa Highway.
• Construct the following north -south collector roadways from Palani Drive and
extending north to the proposed University Drive: 1) Ane Keohokalole Highway (Mid-
level Road); 2) Keanalehu (Waena Drive); and 3) Kealakaa Street.
• Construct the proposed University Drive between the Mamalahoa and Queen
Kaahumanu Highways.
• Widen Hina Lani Drive to four lanes between the Queen Kaahumanu Highway to the
proposed Ane Keohokalole Highway.
• Construct the proposed Shore Drive from the Old Kona Airport Park to the Kealakehe
Drive intersection.
• Construct the Kahului-Keauhou Parkway (Alii Highway) from Queen Kaahumanu
Highway to Keauhou.
• Construct a scenic road from Keauhou above the Kealakekua cliffs to Napoopoo.
• Provide vertical connectors from Alii Drive to Kuakini Highway.
• Improve that portion of the Mamalahoa Highway extending from the North Kona to
the Kau Districts.
• Support the installation of suitable bikeways and/or jogging paths.
• Develop a roadway circulation plan for the area between Palani Road and
Kamehameha III Road, in cooperation with the State Department of Transportation,
Federal Highway Administration, and the affected communities.
• Extend Lako Street to connect to Alii Drive.
• Work with the State and the adjacent landowners in establishing the old railroad
right-of-way as a pedestrian and bicycle right-of-way.
4.4.3.7.9 Water
• Continue to pursue groundwater source investigation, exploration and development
in areas that would provide for anticipated growth and an efficient and economic
system operation.
• Continue to evaluate growth conditions to coordinate improvements as required to
the existing water system in accordance with the North Kona Water System Master
Plan.
• Explore and develop a well in Waiaha.
COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL PLAN 9 4-44
4.4.3.8 South Kona
4.4.3.8.1 Education
• Improve basic school facilities to meet current standards.
4.4.3.8,2 Government Operations
• Expansion plans for the Kona public office center shall be undertaken.
• Consolidate county offices in one public office center.
Provide services in West Hawaii as is feasible.
4.4.3.8.3 Cemeteries
• New privately owned cemetery sites to serve future needs shall be sought.
4.4,3.8.4 Wastewater
• Continue to work with the Departments of Health and Land and Natural Resources to
preserve the Class AA water quality of Kealakekua Bay.
• Continue the current methods of wastewater disposal in unsewered areas in
compliance with State and County requirements. This includes individual wastewater
systems in low density developments and private wastewater treatment plants in
high density developments.
4.4.3.8.5 Recreation
• Expand and/or develop recreational facilities in existing communities.
• Establish, in cooperation with the State Department of Education, additional
recreational facilities at Konawaena, Honaunau, and Hookena Schools.
• Encourage the development of a district recreation center with the cooperation of
public and private agencies.
• Encourage the development of the coastal area for public recreational use.
• Encourage the development of a historic park at Kealakekua Bay and protect historic
sites and scenic aspects of the area. Provide a conservation buffer around
Kealakekua Bay.
• Encourage the development of beach park reserves as natural areas and the
improvement of existing beach parks.
• Encourage the further development of Honaunau Bay as a historic park with
recreational opportunities.
Encourage the development of Honomalino Bay as a beach reserve.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 445
• Encourage the development of Palemano Point and Hookena areas for public
recreational opportunities.
• Develop and provide cultural facilities and programs.
4.4.3.8.6 Protective Services
• Service facilities shall be improved to meet needs.
4.4.3.8.7 Airports & harbors
• Provide for general aviation and small boat harbor facilities and launching activities
as the need arises.
4.4.3.8.8 Roadways
• Construct a scenic road from Keauhou above the Kealakekua cliffs to Napoopoo.
• Develop a roadway network circulation plan for South Kona in cooperation with the
State Department of Transportation and affected communities. Upon adoption of
the plan by the County, the recommendations shall be incorporated on the zone
district maps.
• Construct the Mamalahoa Bypass Highway between Keauhou and Captain Cook as a
Scenic Corridor, with limited access.
• Improve that portion of the Mamalahoa Highway extending from the North Kona to
the Ka'u Districts.
• Support the installation of suitable bikeways and/or jogging paths.
• Establish a Heritage Corridor on Old Mamalahoa Highway between Hualalai and
Honaunau.
• Improve substandard, rural roads.
4.4.3.8.9 Nater
• Continue to pursue groundwater source investigation, exploration and development
in areas that would provide for anticipated growth and an efficient and economic
system operation.
• Continue to evaluate growth conditions to coordinate improvements as required to
the existing water system in accordance with the South Kona Water System Master
Plan.
4.4.3.9 Ka'O
4.4.3.9.1 Education
• Encourage continual improvements to existing educational facilities.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL FLAN • 4-46
• Encourage the State Department of Education to plan a K-8 School at Ocean View.
4.4.3.3.2 Government Operations
• Expand/improve facilities as necessary.
4.4.3.3.3 Solid Waste
• A solid waste transfer station should be established for Ocean View.
4.4.3.3.4 Wastewater
• Work closely with landowners to insure the development of adequate sewerage
treatment facilities.
4.4.3,3.5 Recreation
• Encourage the development of a swimming facility in Naalehu.
• Develop parks in Ocean View, commensurate with population growth.
• Encourage the establishment of the Punaluu-Ninole Springs region as a recreation
area.
• Encourage the State Department of Hawaiian Homes Lands to develop the South
Point area for recreational opportunities.
• Recommend the development of Kaalualu Bay as a remote camping -beach park.
• Encourage the State Department of Land and Natural Resources to develop
wilderness recreation uses of the Kapua-Manuka Forest Reserve.
• Encourage the restoration of Ninole Pond as a recreation area.
• Encourage land acquisition surrounding Whittington Beach Park to allow for its
expansion and the construction of a parking area.
4.4.3.3.6 protective Services
• Fire protection and emergency medical services for Ocean View, Naalehu and Pahala
shall be encouraged.
• Consideration shall be given to a joint police -fire facility.
4.4.3.3.7 Roadways
• Continue to improve Mamalahoa Highway, realigning where necessary.
• Install culverts and construct drainage channels and other related improvements.
• Encourage the improvement of substandard subdivision roads.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-47
• Explore alternatives and means to establish an evacuation route through Hawaiian
Ocean View Estates Subdivision to Highway 11, in cooperation with the residents of
Ocean View.
4.4.3.9.8 Water
• Provide additional water system improvements for the currently serviced areas of
Naalehu, Waiohinu, and Pahala.
• Pursue groundwater source investigation, exploration and well development at
Ocean View, Pahala, and Waiohinu.
• Continue to evaluate growth conditions to coordinate improvements as required to
the existing water system.
• Investigate alternative means to finance the extension of water systems to
subdivisions that rely on catchment.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI'I GENERAL PLAN • 4-48
AREAS OF NATURAL BEAUTY BY AHUPUKA OR REGION
Note: The potential areas of natural beauty listed on this table are intended for planning and
program purposes.
4.5 LAND USE ELEMENT
The land use element is intended to be used as a policy guide for the coordinated growth of the
County. The land use element sets forth objectives, policies, and standards to guide the nature,
location, density, and patterns of land uses in particular areas of the County. The land use
patterns reflect considerations of future population growth that are based on economic and
employment growth trends, existing land uses and zoned areas, determination of community
facility needs, physical characteristics and cultural resources of various regions, and
infrastructural demands for the entire island.
The General Pian Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide (LUPAG) map is a graphic expression of
General Plan vision statements, objectives, and policies, particularly those relating to land uses.
The LUPAG map serves as a general guide to the projected long-term uses of private and public
properties and the future form and nature of communities. The broad -brush boundaries
indicated on the LUPAG map are intended for planning purposes and are guides to the general
location of land uses, rather than land use designations displayed to scale within specific
property boundaries. LUPAG map boundaries are independent of: (a) existing zoning; (b) state
land use districts; (c) property boundaries and (d) development plans, which may provide for
more specific land uses within an urban, rural or agricultural form. Consequently, interpretation
of the LUPAG map and land use consistency shall be conducted as a comprehensive analysis
based on all applicable General Plan objectives and policies, development plans, and
circumstances relating to the area in question.
When a development plan provides direction for more specific land use actions within an urban,
rural or agricultural form, the General Plan designations will be subject to the specific
development plan direction and shall be considered only as the general land use policy guide.
Land Use designations and their characteristics are as follows:
4.5.1 Urban Designations
1. High Density: General commercial uses, single family and multiple family
residential uses and related services, mixed industrial -commercial uses in areas of
transition.
2. Medium Density: Village and neighborhood commercial uses and single family
and multiple family residential uses and related services, mixed industrial -commercial
uses in areas of transition.
3. Low Density: Predominantly single family residential uses with ancillary
community and public uses, and neighborhood and convenience -type commercial uses.
4. Urban Expansion Area: Allows for a mix of high density, medium density, low
density, industrial, industrial -commercial and/or open designations in areas where new
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENT'S: LAND USE ELEMENT • 4-49
settlements may be desirable, but where the specific settlement pattern and mix of uses
have not yet been determined.
5. Industrial Area: These areas include uses such as manufacturing and
processing, wholesaling, large storage and transportation facilities, light industrial and
industrial -commercial uses.
6. Resort Node: A self-contained, Major Resort area that includes various visitor -
related uses such as hotels, condominium -hotels (condominiums developed and/or
operated as hotels), single family and multiple family residential units, golf courses and
other typical resort recreational facilities, resort commercial complexes and other
support services.
7. Resort Area: Intermediate Resort, Minor Resort, and Retreat Resort Areas are
identified as Resort Areas on the LUPAG map. These areas include a mix of uses such
as hotels, condominium -hotels (condominiums developed and/or operated as hotels),
and support services.
4.5.2 Rural -Agriculture Designation
The Rural -Agriculture Designation includes areas with or proposed for small farms intermixed
with residential uses where city -like concentrations of people, structures, streets and urban
levels of service are absent. These areas may contain wooded areas, gardens, and open fields
as well as residences.
This category serves a two -fold purpose:
It may include existing subdivisions or areas in the State Land Use Agricultural and Rural
districts that have a significant residential component with typical lot sizes or zoning
varying up to four acres. Non -conforming subdivisions within the State Land Use
Agricultural District may be included in this designation.
It may also include future areas within Agriculture designated areas that meet the above
criteria, but have not been mapped. 'These areas may provide a transition between
agricultural and urban forms. Typical lot sizes may vary from one to four acres,
although larger lots may be included in this designation.
Permitted Activities: With appropriate zoning, the designation may include commercial
facilities that serve the residential and agricultural uses in the area.
4.5.3 Agriculture Designations
Intensive Agriculture: Includes --
a. Lands that are capable of producing sustained, high agricultural yields with the
application of modern farming methods and technologies due to soil composition,
climate, and water. Lands range from low to high soil content and fertility.
b. Lands from two categories of potential suitability for crop production according
to the State Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Lands of Importance to the State of
COUNTY OF HAWAI6I GENERAL FLAN • 4-50
Hawaii (ALISH) system: Prime Agricultural lands and Unique Agricultural Lands. The
ALISH system is based on interpretation of soil and other environmental data and is not
influenced by current crop yield statistics and existing management practices.
C. Lands in the "Kona coffee belt" between Palani Road Junction and the
intersection of Ke Ala o Keawe with the Niamalahoa Highway roughly between the 700 -
foot and 2,000 -foot elevation.
Agricultural uses such as diversified agriculture, floriculture, orchards, coffee, and forestry may
be included in the Intensive Agriculture Designation.
2. Extensive Agriculture: Includes lands that are not capable of producing sustained, high
agricultural yields without the intensive application of modern farming methods and
technologies due to certain physical constraints such as soil composition, slope, machine
tillability and climate. Other less intensive agricultural uses such as grazing and pasturage may
be included in the Extensive Agriculture designation.
4.5.4 Other Designations
1. University: Public institutional facilities, required infrastructure, and supportive and
accessory uses that may be required for establishing or expanding a public university or
institution of higher learning, including ancillary public uses, residential, and support commercial
uses.
2. Open: Parks and other recreational areas, historic sites, scenic vistas and viewplanes,
potential natural hazard areas, and open shoreline areas.
3. Conservation Area: Forest and water reserves, natural and scientific preserves, and
lands within the State Land Use Conservation District, which activities and uses are
administered by the State Department of Land and Natural Resources. The County's
Conservation Area may also include other areas in active management for conservation
purposes and areas to be kept in its natural state with minimal facilities for passive recreation.
4.5.5 Floating Designation
The Floating Designation allows for zoning of limited industrial, commercial, and retreat resort
uses not specifically shown on the LUPAG map, but may be allowed in areas listed generally on
Table I. The Floating Designation enables locating limited industrial, commercial and retreat
resort uses in areas to take advantage of new concepts and trends, economic influences,
unique resources and other unusual situations that may occur. The Floating Designation is
intended to be used in small towns and rural or agricultural areas where special needs arise,
but have not been anticipated. These needs may be evaluated in the change of zone process
and would not require a General Plan amendment.
4.5,6 (Land Use Objectives
• Encourage and ensure the involvement of community residents in the
implementation of the General Plan for their respective communities.
GENERAL FLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-51
• Designate and allocate land uses in appropriate proportions and mix and in keeping
with the social, cultural, and physical environments of the County.
• Accommodate growth through comprehensive, long-range planning by providing
suitable land areas for residential use, commercial and visitor services, industrial
uses, rural, agriculture, and open space.
• Coordinate land use designations with the County's service and circulation systems.
• Achieve a broader diversification of local industries by providing opportunities for
new industries and strengthening existing industries.
• Provide for commercial and industrial areas that will serve neighborhood, community
and regional needs.
• Promote and encourage commercial, industrial and resort areas and the
rehabilitation of commercial, industrial and resort areas that are serviced by basic
community facilities and utilities.
• Assure limited flexibility in responding to needs of rural or remote areas in the
districts of Puna, North Milo, hiamakua, North and South Kohala, South Kona and
Ka'u through the ""floating designation" concept.
• Maximize choices of single-family and multi -family residential housing opportunities
for residents of the county.
• Ensure that resort developments maintain the cultural and historic, social, economic,
and physical environments of Hawaii and its people.
• When identified by the State, protect and encourage the utilization of the County's
important agricultural lands.
• Encourage the productive utilization of lands designated for Intensive Agriculture to
expand and enhance opportunities for the County's agricultural industry.
• Preserve and enhance opportunities for the expansion of Hawaffs agricultural
industry.
• Protect and preserve forest, water, natural and scientific reserves and open areas.
• Utilize publicly owned lands to advance the public interest and for the benefit of the
greatest number of people.
• Acquire lands for public use to implement policies and programs contained in the
General Plan.
4.5.7 Land Use Policies
• Establish development plans to implement the objectives of the General Plan on a
regional basis. These plans will designate and be used to coordinate development
patterns and infrastructure needs throughout the County. These plans will also
COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL PLAN • 4-52
specify land uses and infrastructure priorities within each regional study area. These
plans shall be developed with the participation of the affected communities.
• Foster public/private initiatives for development that will benefit the residents of the
County.
• Review and reform the real property tax structure to assure compatibility with the
land use objectives and policies.
• Develop a unified impact fee ordinance in order to require new development to
contribute fairly for infrastructural improvements that are necessary to accommodate
the new development.
• Require the provision of basic infrastructure necessary for developments.
4.5.7.1 Commercial/]Industrial
• Provide flexibility and periodically update the Zoning Code to accommodate
anticipated or emerging new industries and technologies.
• Encourage commercial and industrial development within or adjacent to existing
zoned areas adequately served by basic infrastructure and services.
• Undertake urban renewal, rehabilitation, and/or redevelopment programs in
cooperation with communities, businesses and governmental agencies.
• Support the creation of industrial parks in appropriate locations as an alternative to
strip development.
• Improve the aesthetic quality of commercial and industrial sites and protect
amenities of adjacent areas by requiring landscaping, open spaces, buffer zones,
and design guidelines.
• Industrial activities may be located close to raw materials or key resources.
• Provide a variety of commercial and industrial zoned districts and lot sizes,
depending on the needs of the industries and the communities.
• Utilize the concept of "floating designation" for future limited commercial and
industrial uses in order to allow flexibility in establishing such uses in rural and/or
remote areas.
4.5.7.2 Residential lyses
• Incorporate the concept of "zone of mix" in the Zoning Code for the purpose of
achieving a housing mix as well as to permit the more efficient development of
residential lands that have topographic and/or drainage problems.
• Ensure the compatibility of uses within and adjacent to residential zoned areas.
GENERAL FLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-53
• Zone urban uses in areas with ease of access to community services and
employment centers and with adequate public utilities and facilities.
• Promote and encourage the rehabilitation and use of urban residential areas that are
serviced by basic community facilities and utilities.
• Encourage and coordinate with the State in providing fee -simple and leasehold
residential lots/units to the residents through State and/or County Housing
Programs.
• Reasonable flexibility is required in codes and ordinances in order to achieve a
diversity of socio-economic housing mix and to permit aesthetic balance between
single-family residential structures and open spaces.
4.5,7.3 iRtewrt
• Support resort developments that promote the cultural and historic, social,
economic, environmental values of Hawaii and its people.
• Utilize the concept of a "floating designation" to allow for the future development of
retreat resort areas.
• Require coastal resort developments to provide public access to and parking for
beach and shoreline areas.
4.5.7.4 Agriculture
Establish and implement a comprehensive Intensive Agricultural lands program to
address, at the minimum, the purpose of agricultural land protection and
conservation, the degree of government protection and conservation, the degree of
government encouragement and support, the recommended methods of government
protection and encouragement, and the extent of private sector actions. The
Intensive Agricultural lands program may examine agricultural water development
priorities, infrastructure standards, labor housing, government incentives, new
approaches to preservation, enforcement, and potential adjacent land use conflicts.
Implementation shall include specific mapping of the Intensive Agricultural lands for
the purpose of providing an agricultural resource database upon which the program
would be developed.
• Support the State in its constitutional obligation to identify important agricultural
lands, and to provide standards and criteria to conserve and protect such lands,
promote diversified agriculture, increase agricultural self-sufficiency and to assure
the availability of agriculturally suitable lands.
• Support the development of private and State agricultural parks to make agricultural
land available for agricultural activities.
• Support efforts to provide tax relief and other incentives to enhance competitive
capabilities of commercial farms and ranches, thereby insuring long-term
preservation, enhancement, and expansion of viable agricultural lands.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI6I GENERAL PLAN • 4-54
• Encourage, where appropriate, the establishment of visitor -related uses and facilities
that directly promote the agriculture industry.
• Encourage compatible economic uses that complement existing agricultural
activities.
• Assist in the development of basic resources such as water, roads, transportation
and distribution facilities for the agricultural industry.
• Assist State agencies on programs that aid agriculture.
• Develop subdivision standards that make a distinction between agricultural and
urban uses.
4.5.7.5 ltu ra l -Agriculture
• Rural style residential agricultural developments, such as new small-scale rural
communities or extensions of existing rural communities, shall be encouraged in
appropriate locations.
• The Zoning Code shall provide for rural -agricultural style residential uses in
appropriate locations, including standards and criteria for the establishment of these
uses.
4.5.7.6 Open Area
• Incorporate considerations of open space for the social, environmental, and
economic well-being of the County of Hawaii and its residents in the implementation
of the General Plan.
• Open space in urban areas shall be established and provided through zoning and
subdivision regulations.
4.5.7.7 Public Lands
• Encourage uses of public land that will satisfy specific public needs, such as housing,
recreation, open space and education.
• Encourage the identification, evaluation, and designation of Natural Area Reserves.
• Continue the coordination of State and County Capital Improvement Programs.
• Support the U.S. Department of Interior, National Park Service's expansion plans for
the Hawaii Volcanoes, Pu'ukohola` and Pu'uhonua O H®naunau National Historic
Parks.
• Maintain public lands with unique recreational and natural resources for public use.
4.5.8 Land Use Standards
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-55
• Each development plan shall include specific financing mechanisms for
improvements to public infrastructure and services that are necessary to
accommodate projected growth.
• Zoning requests for limited industrial, commercial, and retreat resort uses under the
""floating designation" concept shall comply with the change of zone process that is
provided in the Zoning Code.
• Review zoning requests with respect to the General Plan designations, district goals,
regional plans, applicable State land use districts, compatibility with adjacent zoned
uses, availability of public services and utilities, access, and public need and, where
appropriate, approve on an incremental basis in order to mitigate impacts upon
public services and infrastructure in under -served areas.
4.5.8.1 Residential Density Guidelines:
High Density Urban: Multiple family residential - up to 87 units per acre.
Medium Density Urban: Multiple family residential - up to 35 units per acre.
• Low Density Urban: Up to six units per acre.
4.5.8.E Resort Designation Guidelines:
• A ""Major Resort" designation signifies a self-contained resort destination area that
contains a combined total of approximately 3,000 transient and residential units.
• An "Intermediate Resort" designation signifies a self-contained resort destination
area that contains a combined total of approximately 1,500 transient and residential
units.
• A "Minor Resort" designation signifies a resort area that is generally characterized as
an area with numerous small, separately -owned resort facilities or an isolated resort
development that is not projected as a self-contained destination area and that has a
combined total of approximately 500 transient and residential units.
• A ""Retreat Resort" designation signifies generally an area that provides guests with
rest, quiet and isolation. The guideline for the scale of a retreat resort area is a
combined total of approximately 100 transient and residential units.
The following is a general list of urban and rural areas, industrial areas and resort areas by the
County by geographic district. Taken together with the island -wide and district vision
statements and the General Plan objectives and policies, this table is meant to provide
additional guidance for land use matters.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL PLAN • 4-56
TABLE I
List of Urban and Rural Areas, Industrial Areas, and Resort Areas by District
Note: I -G refers to Industrial -Commercial
GENERAL ELAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-57
Puna
Kea'au
Kea'au
Papa'I (Irtwnedlate)
Pahoa
Kea'au-Gateway Center (I -C)
Puna Makaii (Retreat)
Kurtistown
Pahoa
Mt. View
Panaewa
Hawaiian Paradise Park
Hawaiian Paradise Park (I -C)
Orchidland Estates
Volcano
S. Hilo
Hilo
Hilo
Waiakea Peninsula -Reeds Bay
Papa'ikou
Hilo Iron Works (I -C)
(Intermediate)
Pepe'ekeo-Kula'imano
Waiakea Houselots (I -C)
Keaukaha (Minor)
Honomu
Papa`ikou
Wainaku (Minor)
Hakalau
Pe a ekeo
N. Hilo
Laupahoehoe-Papa'aloa
Laupghoehoe-Papa'aloa
Ninole
'O'okaia
'0'okala
Ka hu
Hamakua
Honol&a
Haina
Hamakua (Retreat)
Pa'auilo
Honoka'a
Haina
Pa'auilo
N. Kohala
Hawi
Hala'ula
Mahukona (Minor)
Kapa'au
Hawi
Hal'aula
Halawa
Kahua (Kohala Ranch)
Niuli`I
Maliu Ridge
S. Kohala
Kawaihae
Kawaihae
'Anaehdomalu (Major)
Puako
Waikoloa Village
Kauneoa Bay-Hapuna Bay (Major)
Lalamilo
Waimea
Pauoa Bay-Honokaope Bay (Major)
Waikoloa Village
Waikoloa Mauka
Puako (Minor)
Waimea
N. Kona
Keahole to Kailua
Kailua
Kailua (Major)
Kailua-Keauhou
Kona Industrial Subdivision
Honokohau (Minor)
Holualoa Mauka
and adjacent area (I -C)
Keauhou-Kahalu`u (Major)
Makalei
Honokohau (I -C)
Ka'upulehu-Kuki'o (Major)
Pu'uanahulu
Kainaliu-Honalo
Hokulia
Keahole
Kainaliu-Honalo
Kaloko
S. Kona
Captain Cook
Kealakekua-Captain Cook
Keek2e-Kalukalu (Retreat)
Kealakekua
Keeke'e-Kalukalu
Keo uka
Ka'u
Na alehu
Honu'apo
Ninole-Punalu'u (Minor)
Pahala
Na alehu
Volcano (Retreat)
WaPohinu
Pahala
Ocean View
Ocean View
Note: I -G refers to Industrial -Commercial
GENERAL ELAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-57
4.5.8 District Courses of Action
4.5..1 Puna
4.5.8.1.1 Agriculture
• Assist in the further development of agriculture.
4.5.8.182 Commercial
• Centralization of commercial activities in Pahoa Town, rather than along the Pahoa
By -Pass, to serve the residents of Lower Puna shall be encouraged.
• Expanded commercial services to meet the needs of population growth in the Puna
district shall be encouraged in Keaau.
• Rehabilitation of existing commercial development in appropriate locations shall be
encouraged.
• Appropriately zoned lands shall be allocated as the need arises.
• Allow the establishment of small neighborhood commercial areas within existing non-
conforming, residential -agricultural (rural) subdivisions.
4.5.8.1.3 Industrial
Identify sites suitable for future industrial activities as the need arises.
• Industrial -commercial mixed use districts may be provided in appropriate locations.
• Service oriented Limited Industrial and/or Industrial -Commercial uses may be
permitted in Pahoa although the area is not currently identified in the LUPAG map.
4.5.8.1.4 Multi -Family Residential
• Appropriately zoned lands shall be allocated as the need for multiple residential
development increases.
4.5.8.1.5 Single Family Residential
• Work with community groups to explore possible avenues for financing
infrastructural improvements within the non -conforming subdivisions.
• Encourage and aid the agricultural industry in continuing to provide employee
housing.
• Improve and develop roadways, water and sewerage systems, and other basic
facilities necessary to encourage development of lands suitable for residential use.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL PLAN • 4-58
4.5.8.1.6 Resort
• The development of visitor accommodations and any resort development in the
district shall complement the character of the area.
• Consider the development of small family or 'bed and breakfast type visitor
accommodations and small-scale retreat resort development.
4.5.8.2 South Hilo
4.5.5.2.1 Agriculture
• Encourage buffer zones or compatible uses between agricultural and
urban/residential areas.
• Support the University of HawaN at Hilo and Hawaa i Community College aid in their
development of programs that assist agriculture.
4.5.8.2.2 Commercial
• Continue to pursue the rehabilitation, renewal, and redevelopment of downtown
Milo. Continual improvement of other existing commercial areas must also be
assured.
• Assistance to small businesses in obtaining loans and management education classes
and manpower training programs shall be encouraged.
• Controls that discourage speculation shall be established.
• Appropriately located commercial zoned lands shall be allocated as the need arises.
• Commercial zoned lands in proximity to the University of Hawaii at Hilo shall be
allocated as the need arises.
4.5.8.2.3 Industrial
• Encourage the centralization of industrial activities in the Kanoelehua Industrial area.
Noxious industries shall be located away from residential and related areas.
• Identify sites suitable for future industrial activities as the need arises.
• Encourage the State and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to develop
industrial zoned lands in the Kanoelehua Industrial area and airport industrial area.
• Allocate appropriately zoned lands.
• Industrial -commercial mixed use districts may be provided at appropriate locations.
4.5.8.2.4 Multi -Family Residential
• Re-evaluation of existing zoned areas and re -allocation of lands in appropriate
locations shall be undertaken.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-59
• Appropriately zoned lands shall be allocated as the need for multiple residential
development increases.
4.5.8.2.5 Single Family Residential
• Improve substandard residential roadways through the County's Capital
Improvement Program or by Improvement District.
4.5.8.2.6 Resort
• Re-evaluate areas currently zoned for resort use.
• Continue to improve roadways and sewer and water systems in all areas where high
density resort uses are allowed.
4.5.8.3 North Hilo
4.5.8.3.1 Agriculture
• Encourage large landowners to make agricultural lands available for agriculture.
4.5.8.3.2 Commercial
• Centralization of commercial activities in the Laupahoehoe-Papaaloa area shall be
encouraged.
• Appropriately zoned lands shall be allocated as the need arises.
• Do not allow strip or spot commercial development on the highway outside of the
primary commercial area.
4.5.8.3.3 Industrial
• Identify sites suitable for future industrial activities as the need arises.
• Service oriented Limited Industrial and/or Industrial -Commercial uses may be
permitted in the Laupahoehoe-Papaaloa area although the area is not currently
identified on the LUPAG map.
4.5.5.3.4 Multi -family Residential
• Appropriately zoned lands shall be allocated should the need arise.
4.5.8.3.5 Single Family Residential
• Encourage more innovative types of housing developments, such as cluster and
planned unit developments.
• Urban areas shall continue to be Ninole and Ookala as well as the Laupahoehoe-
Papaaloa area.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL PLAN • 4-60
4.5.8.3.6 Resort
• Encourage the development of small-scale visitor related facilities near points of
interest.
4.5.8.4 HAmalkua
4.5.6.4.1 Agriculture
• Encourage large landowners to make agricultural lands available for agriculture.
• Centralization of commercial activities in the Honokaa area shall be encouraged.
Urban renewal of the area should be undertaken.
• Suitable commercially zoned lands shall be provided as the need arises.
• Encourage commercial activities within Honokaa town to promote and enhance the
history and culture of the paniolo and former sugar plantation.
4.5.8.4.2 Industrial
• Identify sites suitable for future industrial activity as the need arises.
• Encourage the rehabilitation of existing service-oriented industrial areas.
4.5.6.4.3 Mufti -Family Residential
• Appropriately zoned lands shall be allocated as the need for multiple residential
development increases.
4.5.8.4.4 Single Family Residential
• .Designate lands for single family use as the need arises.
4.5.8.4.5 Resort
• Encourage the development of small family -operated hotels.
• Consider small-scale retreat resort development.
• Encourage resort development that enhances the natural beauty of the area.
4.5.5.5 North Kohala
4.5.5.5.1 Agriculture
• Encourage the maintenance and more intensive utilization of the Kohala Ditch
irrigation system for agricultural production.
• Support the development of private and State agricultural parks as a means of
making agricultural land available for commercial agricultural activities.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-61
• In reviewing Special Permit applications, rezonings, and other land use changes in
the Agricultural District, great care should be given to preserve existing viewplanes
to and along the coastline.
4.5.8.5.2 Commercial
•
The development of a commercial core within the towns of Hawi or Kapaau shall be
encouraged.
• Continual improvement of commercial facilities shall be undertaken.
• Develop and encourage the use of special design districts in Hawi and Kapaau that
include guidelines to preserve, protect and enhance the rural and historic qualities of
the commercial areas.
• Do not allow strip or spot commercial development on the highway outside of the
designated urban areas.
4.5.8.5.3 Industrial
Identify sites suitable for future industrial activity as the need arises.
• Service oriented Limited Industrial and/or Industrial -Commercial uses may be
permitted in the Hawi area although the area is not currently identified on the
LUPAG map.
4.5.8.5.4Mufti-Family Residential
• Basic infrastructure shall be provided to those areas zoned for higher density use.
• Appropriately zoned lands shall be allocated as the need arises.
4.5.8.5.5 Single (Family Residential
• Aid and encourage major landowners to make available residential lands in the area
for employee housing and the private market.
4.5.8.5.6 Resort
• Encourage the development of small family type hotels and bed and breakfast
establishments.
• Consider small-scale retreat resort development that is consistent with the rural
character and cultural lifestyle of the district.
4.5.8.6 South Kohala
4.5.8.6.1 Agriculture
• Protect important agricultural lands from urban encroachment.
COUNT' OF HAWAPI GENERAL PLAN • 4-62
• Encourage buffer zones or compatible uses between important agricultural land and
adjacent uses of land.
4,5.8.602 6eY9tltltlfdv®iercial
• The establishment of Waimea as a regional commercial center for northern Hawaii
shall be encouraged.
• Establish controls to insure orderly development and minimize speculation of
commercially zoned lands.
• Continue the concentration of commercial uses in Waimea, Kawaihae, Waikoloa
Village, and in the resort areas. Do not allow strip or spot commercial development
on highways outside of these primary commercial areas.
4.5.8.6.3 Industrial
• Encourage the development of a regional industrial park at Kawaihae and centralize
limited industrial activities in Waimea.
• Industrial development should be in harmony with surrounding uses and the
environment.
Identify sites suitable for future industrial activities as the need arises.
4.5.8.6.4 Multi -Family Residential
• Basic infrastructure shall be provided to those areas zoned for higher density use.
Appropriately zoned lands shall be allocated as the need arises.
4.5.8°6.5 Single Family Residential
• Encourage the development of appropriately located and serviced State-owned,
Hawaiian Home Lands and privately -held lands for houselots.
4.5.5.6,6 Resort
• Adequate access, sewer and water systems, and other basic amenities shall be
provided in all areas where higher density uses are allowed.
4.5.8.7 North Ilona
4.5.8.7.1 Agriculture
• Protect important agricultural lands within the Kona Coffee Belt from urban
encroachment through the use of zoning and other mechanisms.
• Encourage the University of Hawai'i at Milo to accelerate research on agricultural,
aquaculture and forestry products that are or could be of economic value to Kona.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-63
• Encourage buffer zones or compatible uses between important agricultural land and
adjacent uses of land.
4.5.8.7.2 Commercial
• Controls to prevent speculative practices on commercially zoned lands may be
established.
• Implementation of programs to correct existing deficiencies shall be undertaken.
• Appropriately zoned lands shall be provided as the need arises.
4.5.8.7.3 Industrial
• Identify sites suitable for future industrial activities.
• Additional industrial acreage should be provided at the Kona International Airport at
Keahole for support facilities for the airport.
• Industrial development should be in harmony with surrounding uses and the
environment.
• Industrial -commercial mixed use districts may be provided in appropriate locations.
• Service oriented Limited Industrial and/or Industrial -Commercial uses may be
permitted in the Kainaliu-Honaio area although the area is not currently identified on
the LUPAG map.
4.5.8.7.4 Multi -Family Residential
• Ike -evaluation of existing zoned areas and re -allocation of lands in appropriate
locations shall be undertaken.
• Appropriately zoned lands shall be allocated as the need for multiple residential
development increases.
4.5.8.7.5 Single Family Residential
• Encourage the development of appropriately located and serviced privately -held and
State-owned lands for houselots.
• Improve and develop roadways, water and sewerage systems, and other basic
facilities necessary to encourage development of lands suitable for residential use.
• Encourage the concentration of residential structures to avoid strip residential
development.
• Encourage the use of more innovative types of housing development, such as zones
of mix and cluster and planned unit developments.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI°I GENERAL PLAN • 4-64
4.5.8.7.6 Resort
Discourage strip resort development along Alii Drive.
• Re-evaluate some areas currently zoned for resort use.
• Improve and provide adequate roadways, sewer and water systems, and other basic
amenities in all areas where higher density uses are allowed.
4.5.8.8.1 Agriculture
• Protect important agricultural lands within the Kona Coffee Belt from urban
encroachment through the use of zoning and other mechanisms.
• Encourage the University of Hawaii at Hilo to accelerate research on agricultural,
aquaculture and forestry products that are or could be of economic value to Kona.
• Encourage buffer zones or compatible uses between important agricultural land and
adjacent uses of land.
4.5.8.8.2 Commercial
• Centralize commercial activities in existing town centers.
• Appropriately zoned lands shall be provided as the need arises.
• Allow the development of small-scale visitor -oriented commercial facilities along Ke
Ala O Keawe Road (City of Refuge Road) leading to Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National
Historic Park.
4.5.8.8.3 Industrial
• Identify sites suitable for future industrial activities as the need arises.
• Service oriented Limited Industrial and/or Industrial Commercial uses may be
permitted in the Kealakekua-Captain Cook area although the area is not currently
identified on the LUPAG map.
4.5.8.8.4 Multi -Family Residential
Re-evaluation of existing zoned areas and re -allocation of lands in appropriate
locations shall be undertaken.
• Appropriately zoned lands shall be allocated as the need for multiple residential
development increases.
4.5.8.8.5 Single Family Residential
• Encourage the development of appropriately located and serviced privately -held and
State-owned lands for houselots.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-65
• Improve and develop roadways, water and sewerage systems, and other basic
facilities necessary to encourage development of lands suitable for residential use.
• Encourage the concentration of residential structures to avoid strip residential
development.
• Encourage the use of more innovative types of housing development, such as zones
of mix and cluster and planned unit developments.
4.5.8.8.5 Resort
• Encourage the development of small family -operated hotels or bed and breakfast
accommodations.
• Developments shall blend in with the character of the area.
4.5.8.9 Ka°u
4.5.8.9.1 Agriculture
• Encourage and support the expansion of agriculture, including forestry and the
macadamia nut industry.
4.5.8.9.2 Commercial
• Centralization of commercial activity in the communities of Pahala, Naalehu and
Ocean View and the area of the Volcanoes National Park shall be encouraged.
• Do not allow strip or spot commercial development on the highway outside of the
designated urban areas.
45.8.9.3 Industrial
Identify sites suitable for future industrial activities as the need arises.
• Service oriented Limited Industrial and/or Industrial -Commercial uses may be
permitted in the Naalehu area although the area is not currently identified on the
LUPAG map.
4.5.8.9.4 Muiti-Family Residential
• Appropriately zoned lands shall be allocated as the need for multiple residential
development increases.
4.5.8.9.5 Siegle Family Residential
Aid and encourage major landowners to make available residential lands in the area
for employee housing and the private market.
COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL. PLAN • 4-66
4.5.8.9.6 Resort
The development of visitor accommodations and any resort development shall
complement the character of the area.
Encourage the development of small family or "bed and breakfast" type visitor
accommodations.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY. 4-67
AREAS OF NATURAL BEAUTY BY AHUPURA OR REGION
Note: The potential areas of natural beauty listed on this table are intended for planning and
program purposes.
4.6. NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
The natural beauty of Hawaii is a universally recognized characteristic and one of the most
significant and valuable assets of this island. In a relatively small area exists a great range of
environments, from lush green tropical valleys, barren fields of lava, native forests, rolling
grasslands, and rocky coastlines to snow-capped mountains. These differences in the
environment and landscape features are important in giving identity to areas of the island.
The natural resources of the island of Hawaii are the physical and environmental assets that
are recognized as useful, valuable, and desirable. These natural resources include, but are not
limited to, the land, water, air, flora, fauna, soils, watersheds, geologic features, geothermal
steam, climate, wind, sunshine, ocean waters, and shoreline. Some of these resources are
finite and irreplaceable. Several are replaceable at extreme cost and others are renewable.
The island's growing population and expanding urbanization place a greater demand on the
limited resource base.
Interwoven with the conservation of these resources is their protection through best
management practices and enforcement of zoning and environmental laws. The County's basic
industries, agriculture, tourism, and scientific and technological enterprises, depend upon a
"clean" environment for optimum growth. The agricultural industry depends upon the
availability of clean air, soil, and water. The island°s major visitor attraction, especially for
tourists from large urban centers, is its natural beauty accentuated by the quality of the air and
water. The environmental quality of the County thus not only enhances the quality of life for its
residents, but is also a major economic asset.
4.6.1 Natural Beauty, Resources, And Environmental Quality Objectives
• Identify and develop programs to protect, preserve and enhance the quality of areas
endowed with natural beauty, such as unique or prominent landscapes, natural
features having cultural or scenic value, or coastal scenic resources.
• Establish programs to protect and identify significant scenic vistas and view planes
from becoming obstructed.
• Maximize opportunities for present and future generations to appreciate and enjoy
areas of natural and scenic beauty.
• Protect, conserve, and utilize the natural resources of the County of Hawaii for
future generations.
• Provide opportunities for recreational, economic, and educational needs without
despoiling or endangering natural resources.
• Protect Hawao is unique, fragile, and significant natural resources.
• Protect rare or endangered species and habitats native to Hawaii.
COUNTY OF HA`'VAPI GENERAL PLAN • 4-68
• Maintain and, if feasible, improve the environmental quality of the island.
406.2 Policies
4.6.2.1 Natural Beauty
• Increase public pedestrian easement access opportunities to scenic places and
vistas.
• Develop and establish view plane criteria to preserve and enhance views of scenic or
prominent landscapes from specific locations.
• Establish programs to identify, acquire and develop viewing sites on the island.
• Access easements to public or private lands that have natural or scenic value shall
be provided or acquired for the public.
• Develop standards to incorporate natural and scenic beauty elements as part of
design plan review.
• Maintain a continuing program to identify exceptional trees or tree masses.
• protect the views of areas endowed with natural beauty by considering the effects of
proposed construction during land use reviews.
4.6.2=2 Natural resources
• Encourage users of natural resources to conduct their activities in a manner that
avoids or minimizes adverse effects on the environment.
• Encourage a program of collection and dissemination of basic data concerning
natural resources.
• Coordinate programs to protect natural resources with other government agencies.
• Encourage an overall conservation ethic in the use of Hawaii's resources by
protecting, preserving, and conserving the critical and significant natural resources
of the County.
• Ensure that activities authorized or funded by the County do not damage important
natural resources.
• Encourage utilization of the shoreline for recreational, cultural, educational, and/or
scientific uses in a manner that is protective of resources and of the maximum
benefit to the general public.
• Minimize impact to the shoreline from the encroachment of man-made
improvements and structures when permitted.
• Investigate methods of beach replenishment and sand erosion control.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-69
• Promote sound management in the development of HawaPi's land and marine
resources for the future and potential continuous economic benefit.
• Encourage the protection of watersheds, forest, brush, and grassland from
destructive agents and uses.
• Work with the appropriate State, Federal agencies, and private landowners to
establish a program to manage and protect identified watersheds and to identify and
inventory forest lands suitable for watershed purposes.
• Encourage appropriate State agencies to review and designate forest and watershed
areas into the conservation district during State land use boundary comprehensive
reviews.
• The installation of utility facilities, highways and related public improvements in
natural and wildland areas should avoid the contamination or despoilment of natural
resources where feasible by design review, conservation principles, and by mutual
agreement between the County and affected agencies.
• Encourage the continued identification and inclusion of unique wildlife habitat areas
of native Hawaiian flora and fauna within the Natural Area Reserve System.
• Encourage the use of native plants for screening and landscaping.
• Ensure public access is provided to the shoreline, public trails and hunting areas,
including free public parking where appropriate, by establishing a comprehensive
public access program and promulgating laws and plans for acquisition.
• Establish a program in which a system of pedestrian access trails to identified places
of scenic, historic, cultural, natural, or recreational values are planned, acquired if
appropriate, and developed.
• Encourage the State to establish a program to preserve and protect significant lava
tube caves.
• Within the Kona high rainfall/fog-drip belt, ground disturbing activities such as
excessive soil compaction and excessive removal of vegetative cover should be
minimized and mitigated consistent with watershed management strategies that
encourage the maintenance and re-establishment of forest cover, minimal coverage
by impervious surfaces and other strategies that encourage effective infiltration to
groundwater.
• Create incentives for landowners to retain and re-establish forest cover in upland
watershed areas with emphasis on native forest species.
4°6.2.3 Environmental Quality
• Reinforce and strengthen established standards, where necessary, principally by
initiating, recommending, and adopting ordinances pertaining to the control of
pollutants that affect the environment.
COUNTY OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL PLAN • 4-70
• Review the County grading and grubbing ordinances to ensure that they adequately
address potential erosion and runoff problems.
• Advise the public of environmental conditions and research undertaken on the
island's environment.
• Encourage recycling of agricultural, industrial, and municipal waste material.
• Encourage air and water quality monitoring by the State in areas of existing and
potential urban growth.
• Encourage the State to continue aircraft noise abatement strategies at Hilo
International Airport and the Kona International Airport at Keahole.
• Support and participate in watershed management projects to improve stream and
coastal water quality and encourage local communities to develop such projects.
• Investigate measures that would provide incentives to control point and nonpoint
sources of pollution.
• Support programs to prevent harmful alien species from entering the State and
becoming established or to eradicate them.
• Require golf courses to implement best management practices where they may
affect ground and surface water or coastal ecosystems.
• Support examination of implementation strategies of the management measures
contained in Hawaa is Coastal Nonpoint Pollution Control Program.
GENERAL FLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-71
4.7 NATURAL HAZARDS ELEMENT
4.7.1 Earthquakes
The Big Island experiences thousands of earthquakes each year, most undetectable, but some
strong enough to be felt or to cause minor damage. Most of the island's earthquakes are
related to volcanic activity caused by magma moving beneath the earth's surface and
concentrated beneath the island's two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Because of
this activity, the entire island is within Seismic Zone 4, the highest rating.
The island of Hawaii is sinking, or subsiding, at different rates for various reasons: The great
weight of the island slowly bends the outer rigid layer of the earth, and the weight of growing
volcanoes is greater than the earth can support. Large earthquakes also produce coastal
subsidence.
4.7.2 Flooding
The problems of flooding in the County of Hawaii are attributed to ponding, surface runoff,
high seas, storm surge, and tsunami inundation. Flood control is usually limited to confining
runoff within natural or man-made watercourses and standing bodies of water. Drainage
involves the collection and conveyance of runoff. The problems of high seas and tsunami
inundation are generally alleviated by structural criteria, building setbacks, and land use
restrictions.
In 1982, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) published the "Flood Insurance
Study" for Hawaii County. This study investigates the existence and severity of flood hazards
in Hawaii. The flood boundaries for streams, and the flood insurance zones and base flood
elevation lines are delineated on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM). These maps are the
principal result of the "Flood Insurance Study," and have been incorporated into Hawaii
County's Flood Plain Management Program. The'°Flood Insurance Study," coupled with
appropriate rules and regulations of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, are part of
the Hawaii County Code.
4.7.3 Lava Hazards.
The island is composed of five volcanoes, two of which—Kilauea and Mauna Loa—are expected
to erupt frequently in the future. The U.S. Geological Survey has identified lava hazard zones
for the island based on the probability of coverage by lava flows. Zone 1 is the area of greatest
hazard and Zone 9 the least. Hazard zones from lava flows are based on the location and
frequency of both historic and prehistoric eruptions.
4.7.4 Natural Hazards Objectives
• Protect human life.
• Prevent damage to man-made improvements.
• Prevent damage from inundation.
• Reduce surface water and sediment runoff.
COUNTY OF HAWAPI GENERAL PLAN • 4-72
• Maximize soil and water conservation.
4.7.4 Natural Hazards Policies
• Review land use policies and building structure regulations as it relates to flood
plain, high surf, and tsunami hazard areas.
• Update the Flood Insurance Rate Maps and other flood maps in compliance with the
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as needed, with emphasis in Puna, South
Kohala, North and South Kona, and South Hilo.
• Promote and provide incentives for participation in the Soil and Water Conservation
Districts' conservation programs for developments on agricultural and conservation
lands.
• The "Drainage Master Plan for the County of Hawaii" shall be reviewed and updated
to incorporate new studies and to reflect newly identified priorities from a watershed
perspective that:
L Considers non-structural alternatives;
ii. Minimizes channelization;
iii. Protects wetlands that serve drainage functions;
iv. Coordinates regulation of construction and agricultural operations; and
v. Encourages the establishment of floodplains as public greenways.
• Development -generated runoff shall be disposed of in a manner acceptable to the
Department of Public Works and in compliance with all State and Federal laws.
• Explore new methods of funding for the provision of adequate drainage systems.
• Establish public and private partnerships to maintain and improve existing drainage
systems and to construct new drainage facilities.
• Cooperate with the State to develop an integrated shoreline erosion management
plan that ensures the preservation of sandy beaches and public access to and along
the shoreline, and the protection of private and public property from flood hazards
and wave damage.
• Promote public education programs on tsunami, hurricane, storm surge, and flood
hazards.
• Encourage grassed shoulder and swale roadway design where climate and grade are
conducive.
• Develop programs to acquire lands or transfer development rights in areas of high
volcanic and natural hazard.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 4-73
4.7.5 AREAS OF NATURAL BEAUTY BY AHUPUA%A OR REGION
Note: The potential areas of natural beauty listed on this table are intended for planning and
program purposes.
PUNA
ite Ahupua'a or Region
Viewplane from Pahoa-Kalapana Highway looking makai
Kehena Black Sand Beach
Kehena
Viewpoint -Shoreline
Kekeekee
1955 Lava Flow (Iilewa Cone)
Kamaili
Ironwood Groves along Kapoho-Kalapana Road
Kauaea
Malama-Ki
Viewpoint -Shoreline
Opihikao
MacKenzie Park
Malama-Ki
Mango Grove along Pohoiki Road
Pohoiki
Keahialaka Spring & Pond
Keahialaka
Shoreline
Keahialaka
Warm Springs
Pohoiki
Albizzia Grove along Pahoa-Kapoho Road
Kaniahiku
1960 Lava Flow
Kapoho
Kapoho Tidal Ponds
Kapoho
Viewpoint (Puu Kukae)
Kapoho
Kapela Bay (Black Sand Beach)
Kahuwai
Viewpoint -Shoreline (Hilo & Puna)
Kahuwai
Viewpoint & Tidal pool (Makaukiu Pt.)
Kahuwai
Ironwood Grove at Nanawale Park
Nanawale
Viewpoint -Shoreline (Honolulu Landing)
Honolulu
Mango Grove along Kapoho-Honolulu Landing Road
Kahuwai & Halepuaa
View from Green Lake Hill
Kapoho
Viewpoint -Shoreline
Waiakahuila
Cove with Stone Beach
Keaau
Royal Palms fronting Keaau Intermediate School
Keaau
View of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa from Pahoa-Keaau, Volcano-Keaau
Roads and various Puna subdivisions
Pu'u O'o Lava Flow Region
COUNTY OF HAWAPI GENERAL PLAN • 74
SOUTH HILO
Site Ahupua'a or Region
Banyan Drive Scenic Area Waiakea
Liliuokalani Gardens
Waiakea
Viewpoint of Hilo Bay area with Mauna Kea in Background
Waiakea
Viewpoint of Hilo Bay with Mauna Kea in Background
Waiakea
Coconut Isle (Mokuola)
Waiakea
Reeds Bay (Shoreline)
Waiakea
Ice Pond
Waiakea
Viewpoint -Shoreline (Leleiwi Point)
Waiakea
Lehia Park (undeveloped)
Waiakea
Viewpoint -Shoreline (Keokea Point)
Waiakea
Uhikai (Onekahakaha) Beach Park shoreline
Waiakea
Waiahole Fish Pond
Waiakea
Haleolono Fish Pond
Waiakea
Leleiwi Park shoreline
Waiakea
Lokoaka Pond, Akahi Pond, and Kionakapahu Pond
Waiakea
Viewpoint -Shoreline (Waiuli Point)
Waiakea
Wailoa River Area
Hoakimau Fish Pond
Mohouli Fish Pond
Waiakea Fish Pond
Waiakea
Puu Halai
Ponahawai
Rainbow Falls and Area (Wailuku River Park)
Piihonua
Kaimukanaka Falls and Area
Piihonua
Boiling Pots and Area
Piihonua
Viewpoint on hilltop looking over Hilo Bay
Ponahawai
Waiole Falls and Area
Piihonua
Peepee Falls and Area
Piihonua
Viewpoint from lower Wailuku Bridge looking makai
Piihonua
Viewpoint from lower Wailuku Bridge looking mauka
Piihonua
Alealea Point looking towards Hilo Bay
Wailua
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY* 75
SOUTH HILO
Site Ahupua'a or Region
Keakanini Falls Piihonua
Hawaii Falls
Piihonua
Honolii Beach Area and Stream
Alae
Onomea Bay Area
Kahalii-Onomea
Onomea Arch (fallen)
Onomea
Akaka and Kahuna Falls
Honomu
Kolekole Gulch
Kuhua-Kaiwiki
Hakalau Bay/Gulch Area
Hakalaunui-Kamae
NORTH HILO
Site Ahulua'a or Region
View point of Umauma Gulch (makai from bridge) Wailua
Viewpoint of Falls in Umauma Gulch (mauka from bridge)
Wailua
Nanue Gulch-Makai
Nanue
Honohina Falls (Nanue Gulch and stream)
Nanue
Maulua Gulch
Maulua Iki
Kaiwilahilahi Gulch
Kaiwilahilahi
Manawaiopae Gulch
Manawaiopae
Kihalani Gulch
Kihalani
Kuwaikahi Gulch
Kihalani
Kilau Gulch
Laupahoehoe
Scenic Lookout-Laupahoehoe Pt.
Alaea
Laupahoehoe Gulch
Laupahoehoe
Kaawalii Gulch
Waipunalei-Humuula
COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL PLAN • 76
NORTH KOHALA
Site Ahupua'a or Region
Windward Valley System Awini, Pololu
Honokane Valley
Islands off Awini Valley
Pololu Valle
Viewpoint-Pololu Valley
Pololu
Akoakoa Point
Waiapuka
Nanue Bay Area
Waiapuka
Kapanaia Bay Area
Makapala, Aamakao
Keokea Beach & Kalalae Pt.
Makapala
Kauhola Point
Kukuiwaluhia
Indian Banyan trees at Chalon International of Hawaii's
office in Hawi
Hawi
Upolu Point
Kokoiki-Upolu
Old Honoipu Landing
Puakea
Kapaa Park
Kapaa
Mahukona Harbor and Park
Mahukona-Hihiu
Keawanui Bay Area
Kehena, Puanui
Kaiopae Point
Waiaka
Waiakailio Bay Area
Kahualiilii
Coastline viewplane from Akoni-Pule Highway
Coastline viewplane from Kohala Mountain Road
Ironwood trees along Kohala Mountain Road
HAMAKUA
Site Ahupua'a or Re icon
Kalopa State Park Kalopa
Mauna Kea State Park area
Kaohe
Ahualoa Road
Kaao-Nienie
Nienie (Native forest)
Nienie
Viewpoint—Lookout Waipio Valley, Kukuihaele
Lalakea
Windward Valley System
Waipio, Muliwai-Awini,
Muliwai to Awini
Waimanu
Waimanu Valley Area
Waipio Valley Area
Waipio
Waipio
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 77
--------------------
SOUTH KOHALA
Site Ahupua'a or Region
Viewpoint (Puu Makela) Kawaihae 2nd
Mauumae Bay/Beach
Kawaihae 2nd
Kaunaoa Bay/Beach
Ouli
Kaluhiikanu Beach
Kawaihae 2nd
Ohaiula Beach (Spencer Park)
Kawaihae 2nd
Upper Waipio Lookout
Waipio
View of Kohala mountain
Waiauia
Na Puu (Waimea)
Puu Laelae
Hokuula
Puuiki
Keoniki-Puuiki
Waimea Church Row and Surrounding Churches
Waikoloa (Waimea)
Hapuna Bay/Beach
Lalamilo
Kaunaoa Point
Ouli
Waimea Nature Park (Ulu Laau)
Lalamilo
Scenic countryside around Waikii
Waikoloa
Makaiwa Bay and Pond, Keawanui
Kalahuipuaa
Pauoa Bay Area
Kalahuipuaa
Puako Bay Area
Lalamilo
Anaehoomalu Bay Area
Anaehoomalu
Wailea Bay Area
Lalamilo
ewplane along Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway looking mauka and
rmakai
Puu Waawaa
NORTH AND SOUTH KOHALA DISTRICTS
Site Ahuoua'a or Region
Puuwaawaa
Kiholo Bay/Beach Area
Puuwaawaa
Keawaiki
Puuwaawaa; Puuanahulu
Hualalai
Kaupulehu
Kaupulehu
Kaupulehu
COUNTY OF HAWAPI GENERAL PLAN • 78
NORTH AND SOUTH KOHALA DISTRICTS
Site Ahupua'a or Region
Kua Bay Area Maniniowali
Opae Ula Pond
Makalawena
Makalawena
Makalawena
Kahoiawa
Awakee
Kakapa Bay Area
Kukio 2nd
Kukio Bay/Beach Area
Kukio Ist
Mahaiula Bay/Beach Area
Mahaiula
Kaloko Pond
Kaloko
Honokohau Fish Pond
Kealakehe
Honokohau coastline
Honokohau-Kealakehe
Aimakapa
Honokohau
White Sand Beach
Honokohau
White Sand Beach
Keahuolu
Viewplane from Kuakini Highway going mauka & makai
Holualoa-Keauhou
Viewplane from Kamehameha III Road going mauka & makai
Kahaluu-Keauhou
Keauhou
Keauhou 1 & 2
Kahaluu Bay Area
Kahaluu 2
Viewplane along Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway going mauka and makai
SOUTH KONG
Sift AhupUa'a or Region
Kealakekua Bay from Kaawaloa Road and Lower Government Road Keopuka, Kaawaloa,
Kaawaloa Kealakekua
Viewpoint
Kahauloa (2)
Cove
Keei (1)
White Sand Beach
Keei (1)
Viewpoint (Palemano Pt.)
Keei (1)
Honaunau Bay & Scenic View from Ke Ala o Keawe Road
Honaunau, Keokea
Kealia Beach
Kealia
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS: NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY• 79
SOUTH KONA
SiteAhuaua'a or Region
Kiilae Kiilae
Hookena—Kauhako Bay Area Hookena, Kauhako
Milolii area Milolii
Lava flows of 1950, 1926 and 1919
KA'U
Site Ahupua'a or Region
Manuka Bay Manuka
Pohue Bay
Kahuku
Volcano area including National Park
Kahuku, Keauhou
South Point (Ka Lae)
Pakini Iki, Kamaoa
Mahana Bay
Kamaoa
Waiakukini
Pakini Nui
Kaalualu Bay
Kiolakaa
Honuapo
Honuapo
Kawa (Kawaa) Bay and Spring
Kaalaiki, Hllea Nui
Ninole Cove & Springs
Ninole
Punaluu Black Sand Beach
Punaluu
Lava Flows of 1868, 1887, & 1907
View of Mauna Loa from Volcano -Kau Highway
Scenic view of shoreline between Pahala and Punaluu
Waiohinu Park
Na puu: Enuhe, Makanau, Kaiholena and One
COUNTY OF IIAWAI`I GENERAL PLAN • 80
SECTION 4. If any provision of this ordinance or the application thereof to any person
or circumstance is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of
the ordinance which can be given without the invalid provision or application, and to this end,
the provisions of this ordinance are declared to be severable.
SECTION 5. In the printing of the General Plan for public distribution, General Plan
amendment procedures may be included therein for ease of reference.
SECTION 6. This ordinance shall take effect upon its approval.
"k 1 Te-TiMal"�1 ys
Date of Introduction:
Date of Ist heading:
Date of 2nd Reading:
Effective Date:
Comm Reference No. 45.49
COUNTY OF HAWAII GENERAL PLAN 9 81
NOTE: REFER TO DRAFT 2 LUPAG, FACILITIES AND OTHER MAPS
COUNTY OF IIAWAVI GENERAL PLAN • 82