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08/20/1998 13: 32 808-961-2162 C., .M. RESOURCE MGMT PAGE 01 <br /> N <br /> i <br /> •7 Cf `' ' ,. <br /> CE TriANPIR' <br /> BUSINESS • AGRICULTURE • FO STRY . __ - , <br /> "We Have Solutions for You" <br /> August 20, 1998 <br /> Committee on Finance <br /> County Clerk's Office <br /> 25 Aupuni Street <br /> Hilo,l-Iawai'i 96720 <br /> Re: Res. 267-98 (Comm. No. 604.08) and Res. 309-98 (Comm. No. 604.10)0 <br /> Dear Committee on Finance Chairman Chung and County Council Members, <br /> I am writing in response to the proposed disposition or leasing of the former Hamakua Sugar Company lands <br /> now under County ownership. Currently, I operate a small business that provides business and management <br /> assistance to landowners, organizations and individuals engaged in agriculture and forestry projects. I am also <br /> actively involved with several local, community and professional groups around the Big Island that promote <br /> sustainable communities, agriculture and forestry . <br /> I welcome and support the utilization of land for reforestation and diversified agriculture. However, I do not <br /> think it wise that the County venture into leasing lands because of their lack of experience and lack of <br /> knowledge in this area. For the County to take on such a responsibility would require additional funds to hire <br /> individual(s) experienced in lease preparation, administration and management. Good business plans, good land <br /> stewardship, good infrastructure, access to leased lots and collecting lease payments are a small part of what <br /> would be required and expected. The State has many years experience leasing lands, and they are in dire need <br /> and in the process of re-evaluating their land lease process. This just shows that the land lease business is a <br /> complex one, especially when the public is involved. <br /> I am supportive of the County disposing of these lands. It has been my experience that private land owners like <br /> KSBE not only have experience leasing lands, but have a more user-friendly leasing process than the State. <br /> Trading these lands with KSBE will provide lands to potential lessees quicker and will save them, and us, <br /> money and time. If the land must remain in public hands, perhaps the County could trade or make an <br /> arrangement with the State. I do not want additional tax dollar;to go towards building another bureaucratic <br /> nightmare. \Ve can barely manage what we already have. <br /> Thank for your time and consideration. <br /> Sincerely, <br /> ,�Atiw., 0 Comm. N .______ <br /> Courtney ll, Owner File No. " ...�.. <br /> ?eI. To: cco <br /> r 7� _ AUG 2 0 1998 <br /> ,,t ,i. .,G GLi: <br /> P.O- Box 11441 • Hilo, Hawaii 96721 • Tel (808) 981-02'.-.:3 = Fax. (808) • mai camgatoh-a.fi •` "_,_.... <br />