COM 0067.033 2006-2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

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January 11, 2007 • Mr. Pete Hoffinan `uu~ 1~ 1~ c'~' Hawaii County Council 25 Aupuni Street Suite 209 ~~U t+ Hilo, Hawaii 96720 Deaz Council Chairman Hoffinan, As president of the Keaau Agricultural Lots Community Association Board of Directors, I not only speak on behalf of the 300-plus owners in the subdivision but as an individual resident of the Big Island. We humbly ask that the proposed revision to the zoning code, Bill 345, not be allowed to pass. This proposal, no matter what terminology is included, will have far reaching effects for all the neighborhoods on the entire island. No one is disputing the fact that caze for these patients is needed, that there is a shortage of beds available, and that the help they receive can indeed be alife-saving matter. But to modify the zoning code in this manner to accomplish the desired results is nothing more than a short term 'band-aid' remedy to benefit a few special interests. Preventative measures have proven to be a more cost effective solution than applying band-aids over and over again. In a time when government is trying to slow down, if not halt growth, to allow infrastructure to catch up with demand, touting lower densities, this only increases density and in areas that aze zoned for residential uses. No one can dispute the increase in traffic, noise, security concerns, and police involvement if increased density is allowed to expand in this way. The County's general plan specifically addresses where residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial, etc. zones are established. Mayor Hany Kim has stated "For programs to be assured the highest success possible for the clients, the community supporting it is an essential part of the program." With the passage of this bill, community input will be eliminated. No prior notification will be required for a facility to commence operations. Every house in a neighborhood would have the potential to become a treatment facility without requiring any input from the surrounding residents. The County's "smart-growth" policy of "preserving quality of life, natural beauty, and rural character" is in jeopardy if this bill is allowed to pass. Changing the zoning code is this manner will NOT allow the county to continue growth as they wish nor as the communities wish. All control will be given to the Department of Health to implement and monitor such programs and facilities all from an entirely different county. How well can a different county know and understand the needs and desires of our great island? The ability for a treatment facility to house eight patients currently exists. With the application for a Special Use Permit, surrounding residents are notified, have the opportunity to voice their concerns, recommendations or disapproval of such an increase based on the prior performance of the established program. If this bill passes, no one will have an opportunity to offer input regarding the increased impact of a program in the community. Comm. No. Ref. Tox~O" 2001 Ref. Uate