REP PC 032 05/15/2007 2006-2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Communication 331 Resolution 158 Page 2 of 5 The proposed amendments to the subdivision and zoning code ensures consideration of current or anticipated public infrastructure challenges and increases the opportunity for public input into the subdivision and planned unit development review process. This would result in another layer of public and governmental scrutiny and include projects consisting of seven (7) or more lots, which potentially pose greater impacts upon surrounding communities than do small-scale subdivisions. At the May 1, 2007 Planning Committee meeting all members were present. The following members of the public presented oral testimony: Margaret Wille spoke in favor of the resolution noting very important and key objectives which include public participation, due process and Council oversight. Merry Anne Stone testified that the current system of having the Planning Director make subdivision decisions is not working as has witnessed several poor projects and projects where concurrency was not in place and developers were able to buy their way out. She fully supports Resolution 158 and commends its introduction. Patricia Van Asperen noted she was very much in favor of the proposed resolution. She stated the way it stands, except for variance applications there is no vehicle for the public and adjoining landowners and neighbors to provide input with regard to proposed subdivisions. She stated that basically developers are planning the future of Kona with no vehicle for public or neighbors to provide input. She's in favor of the resolution and affording the council more discretion. Cheryl King presented testimony in support of the resolution expressing her concern that so much power was left in the hands of a political appointee and would rather see the important responsibility and authority of approving proposed subdivisions be shared. Virginia Small, a resident of Holualoa stated that additional oversight as proposed by the resolution is a wonderful idea. There were no public testifiers appearing at the Hilo Council Chambers or at the Waimea Council office. Council Chair Pete Hoffmann had much concern about the pace of development and participation of the public and that it has been inadequate over the years. Mr. Hoffmann noted that had there been more discretion afforded to many of the past subdivision applications, he felt that Hawaii County would not be faced with these problems today. Mr. Hoffmann explained that the resolution requests the Planning Director to consider the drag ordinance proposals regarding Subdivisions and Planned Unit Developments and noted that he believed this was the core action needed to be taken. Mr. Hoffmann also noted that it's been 40 years since the County reconsidered this process and that the process and plan of action may have been effective in the 1960's as a means of generating more development, but under the current situation, it is highly inappropriate. Mr. Hoffmann stated that regardless whether the resolution is adopted at PC Report No. 32