REP FC 061 05/16/2011 2010-2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE DATE: May 16, 2011 Re: Comm. No. 195 /Res. 71 -11 PLACE: Council Chambers Hilo, Hawai`i TIME: 9:00 a.m. Council Chair and Members Hawai`i County Council Hilo, Hawai`i 96720 Your Committee on Finance, to which was referred Resolution No. 71 -11, reports as follows: Resolution No. 71 -11, transmitted by Councilmember Fred Blas, dated April 29, 2011, authorizes the Director of Finance to enter into negotiations for the acquisition of TMK: (3)1 -3 -08: 075, situated in the District of Puna , also known as Pohoiki Bay.. This parcel of property is comprised of 26.782 acres which was awarded the highest criteria score by the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission on its prioritized list of qualifying lands worthy of preservation dated December 27, 2010. The parcel contains protection of the historically significant canoe - landing site, the preservation of cultural and burial sites, and significant stands of Milo and Kamani trees. The hot pond located on the property is another special feature of Pohoiki Bay that is very popular with residents and visitors. Mr. Blas urged the support of Your Committee, stating the need to acquire and protect this parcel of land in Puna. Should the County take ownership of the parcel, not only will the historic and cultural value be preserved, but also the public will continue to have access to Pohoiki Bay. Property Manager Kenneth Van Bergen appeared before Your Committee. He confirmed the ordering of an appraisal. This parcel is appraised at $845,000 and shared this with the owners and their representatives. This parcel is also a part of a proposed subdivision "Pohoiki Bay" and referred to as "Lot 26 -B ". The owner's will retain "Lot 26 -A" in this proposed subdivision and willing to sell the subject parcel described in this proposed resolution. Pursuant to Section 2 -214, Hawai`i County Code, there shall be a Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Fund for the purpose of acquiring lands or property entitlements in the County of Hawai`i for public outdoor recreation and education, including access to beaches and mountains; preservation of historic or culturally important land areas and sites, protection of natural resources, including buffer zones; preservation of forests, beaches, coastal areas, natural beauty and agricultural lands; and protection of watershed lands to preserve water quality and water supply. FC Rept. No. 61