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<br /> Communication 32 <br /> <br /> Resolution 21 <br /> Page 4 of 5 <br /> Committee Vice Chair Yagong suggested that input and comments from the Hawaii Chamber of <br /> Commerce be solicited. <br /> Planning Director noted that the timeline for processing, review and comments by the Planning <br /> Department and Planning Commission is 120 days and assured Committee Chair Pilago that the <br /> department would do its best to meet that deadline. Director Yuen also noted that the General Plan does <br /> not specifically address the issue of big box stores and contains general policy statements about <br /> increasing opportunities for commercial enterprises. <br /> Committee Chair Pilago stated he started out opposed to Resolution 21-07, however, having listened to <br /> the discussions, he now supports the resolution but for entirely different reasons. Mr. Pilago stated one of <br /> the things he dislikes about big outlets is that a lot of the products sold come from overseas, through <br /> sweat shops utilizing child labor and therefore a social context has to be considered. Mr. Pilago said it's <br /> disturbing that we would be in support of those kinds of difficult and oppressive societies and actually <br /> become outlets. The other reason Mr. Pilago noted is the need to suppoR the local farmers and producers <br /> because the social and economic context in the present situation demands that of us. <br /> Council Member Yoshimoto spoke in favor of the Resolution. Mr. Yoshimoto stated the resolution was <br /> reasonable despite testimony that it would prohibit free enterprise. He felt that the resolution fostered a <br /> reasonable compromise and noted that although businesses should be free to operate in a way that they <br /> choose, he believed we need to view the economy per scale and who has the most resources. Mr. <br /> Yoshimoto said while he understands that generally superstores can reduce prices in a short term, we need <br /> to look at long-term options because once a big box store is allowed, it would be very difficult, if not <br /> impossible, to take away. The long-term future of the County and how it affects the community are <br /> reasons Mr. Yoshimoto supports the resolution. <br /> A motion by Council Member Ikeda to call the question failed. Committee Vice Chair Yagong asked <br /> Director Yuen that if the resolution fails, could a stipulation be included through the zoning process that <br /> requires a business to purchase a percentage of their products locally. Director Yuen stated that when <br /> local government restricts the choice of a business to buy something from out-of--state rather than in state, <br /> he believed it violates federal control of interstate commerce. Mr. Yuen agreed to look into matter further <br /> when Mr. Yagong stated it was his understanding this in fact was being done elsewhere. <br /> PC Report No. 6 <br /> <br />