COM 0328.000 1996-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman and Members of the County Council Page 2 90-62, 91-96, 93-26 and 94-34 (REZ 470) are a result of conditions which could not have been foreseen or are beyond the control of the petitioner. In their letter of February 5, 1997, to the Planning Director, the applicant has requested amendment to Condition I. The applicant has stated that "the RM zoned area, drainage (flood control) improvements and compliance with affordable housing agreement are all contingent on the construction of the drainage system. "Work at Gamrex's expense has been on going on the flood control system for over seven (7) years. The drainage improvements required run from Gamrex's Mauka (East) boundary along the abandoned railroad right-of-way down through the RM zoned area on lands owned by Gamrex and the County of Hawaii. The improvements then pass under both Queen Kaahumanu and Kuakini Highway through existing culverts and run Makai (west) down through lands owned by Gamrex to existing improvements which start at the Kupuna Street bridge (culvert) in Kalani Makai subdivision." In addition, Gamrex has experienced a very slow year. Sales were well below projections and market activity was at its lowest ebb. While real estate activity was robust on the Mainland, Hawaii's real estate markets were in decline throughout the State. Home and land prices on the Big Island, especially in Kona are now at 1979 price levels. There price reductions and slow market conditions have impacted the development. In view of these changing conditions Gamrex undertook a complete project review. This review included extensive market analysis and project orientation. All model home and vacant lot inventories were repriced and a marketing program was developed and is presently in operation. Approval of this amendment request would not be contrary to the General Plan nor would it be contrary to the original reasons for granting the change of zone. The applicant has continually worked to secure the necessary approvals from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Public Works for the required drainage improvements within and beyond, the boundaries of the project site. The applicant's ability to secure Final Plan Approval of the RM zoned lands is subject to the approval of the drainage improvements. Over the many years the applicant has been before the Commission, the applicant has shown perseverance in managing the many requirements which they have and to deal with. The applicant has either complied with, or initiated the process of compliance with other conditions of approval within the subject ordinance. For your favorable consideration, an amendment to Ordinance No. 84-23, as amended by Ordinance Nos. 84-42, 88-4, 90-62, 91-96, 93-26 and 94-34 is transmitted.