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requirements which were not based on scientific or engineering principles, practices and <br /> <br /> considerations; which far exceed the requirements of the National Flood Insurance <br /> Program ("NFIP") and other federal and state requirements; which will result in additional <br /> unnecessary professional and construction costs which will be passed on and could <br /> result in price increases too high for Hawaii County residents who are first-time home <br /> buyers and small business owners. Furthermore, the additional arbitrary requirements <br /> proposed by tfiat council member would unlawfully restrict the use of private property <br /> and thus constitute an unconstitutional taking of land. <br /> Recent revisions to Bill 51, Draft 5 by Council member Stacy Higa. We understand <br /> <br /> that Councilmember Stacy Higa has recently made amendments to Bill 51 to bring it <br /> closer to its original intent and has implemented recommendations by DPW, as well as <br /> <br /> from engineering and architecture professionals. Hawaii County has been put on notice <br /> <br /> that its rules and regulations must comply with requirements of the NFIP. We have been <br /> informed that according to the review of government and private experts, Bill 51, Draft 5, <br /> complies with NFIP and FEMA requirements. <br /> RECOMMENDATION <br /> LURF supports Bill 51, Draft 5, to ensure compliance with various federal and <br /> state regulations, and respectfully recommends that the Council pass an ordinance that <br /> exclusively addresses the requirements necessary for compliance with the NFIP and <br /> FEMA. <br /> Thank you for the opportunity to express our views on this matter. <br /> Cc: Corporation Counsel, County of Hawaii <br /> J:\Counties\County of Hawaii\Bill 51\071106 Bill 51 Draft 5 LURF Testimony.doc <br /> 2 <br /> <br />