COM 0042.041 2004-2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Testimony Relating to Bill 163-Draft 3 Department in Hilo and were informed that both grading and construction permits were under review and had not yet been approved. The Engineering Division staff member was helpful and provided us with printouts for both TMKs. We were asked if we wished to file a formal complaint. Wanting to get more information and having a concern for making the complaint public information, we did not file a complaint. We then spoke with the real estate agent who had sold the properties. Although he is not legally responsible for the purchased property, he said he would contact the developer and express our concerns about appropriate use of the land. We have never received any follow-up communication. Rumors, some true and others not, move swiftly through our small community. We knew that large 2-story houses were in the plan, but were shocked early this month to hear that the properties included two 5000 square foot dwellings. This, we and our neighbors feel is inappropriate, outrageous, and not at all compatible with the homes in our neighborhood. In addition, since these homes are being built on elevated, multi- level house pads, they will block much of the view of all the surrounding neighbors. Our communications with Councilman Holschuh went way beyond concern at this point after learning of the size of the houses. We told him that we had no problem, at this point, disclosing our names as concerned residents and forwarding these concerns to the appropriate department heads. Councilman Holschuh suggested that we first contact Chris Yuen. Mr. Yuen responded to a phone message the next day. He indicated that there is no legal way to modify the construction plan under current County statute. The only limitations on these subdivided Ag 40 parcels, aside from flagrant abuse of land movement and building within 500 feet of the coastline is a 35 foot height limit. He was informed of the major grading changes to the property and suggested that we contact the Public Works Department, because this would be an Engineering issue. Engineering Chief, Galen Kuba, was informed of major grading changes to the property. Mr. Kuba was also informed that adequate allowances for drainage may not be occurring. He stated that not much could be done at this point, except corrective actions might be required, if determined necessary. Minimal penalties, doubling the permit fee, could also be assessed for performing work without a permit. He informed us that a building construction permit was approved on 10/27/04. Mr. Kuba also stated that Engineering is responsible for areas only outside the house lines. An Engineering inspector is now assigned to check things out relating to their area of responsibility. Mr. Kuba referred us to the Building Department for more discussion regarding earth movement on the house pad sections of the properties. Brian Kajikawa, Building Department Chief, provided us with more information. The Planning Department approved both homesites on 9/9/04. He confirmed the 10/27/04 construction permit approval date. Mr. Kajikawa also provided insight on the responsibilities of other County offices. 2