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r Page 2. Rezoning application for TMK(3) 2-2-48:10 For example, 1) The county general plan states "to protect existing agricultural operations from urban encroachment, a buffer area, or uses which are compatible with agricultural operations should be considered before allowing any type of rural or urban development into the area". Sonomura rentals proposal does not include a buffer zone, 2) The county general plan states "important agricultural lands will not be rezoned to parcels too small to support economically viable farming units". Half to 1.0 acres is not a viable farming unit, 3) The county general plan states, "The county discourages speculative residential development on agricultural lands". To my knowledge, Sonomura never lived on the parcel and now plans to rezone to possibly establish rental units; therefore, it may be interpreted as speculative. Please be aware that the majority of the current residents are in their retirement years. Our children, grandchildren or newcomers to our community can carry on and preserve the farming way of life, 4) A stated goal of the general plan is to "accommodate growth without congestion." Sonomura's proposed project will have a negative impact on traffic. It is impossible for residents of Panaewa Farm Lots to exit Malalika, Lama or Mamaki Streets in the morning. Residents take the back roads to the Kawailani street traffic light and double back if necessary, and 5) the general plan will "designate, protect and maintain important agricultural lands from urban encroachment". Also of concern is the impact on our environment. The proposed development neighbors the Panaewa water wells. Although the farm lots have all basic utilities' it is not connected to a urban sewer system. Until the county finds a solution to relieve the traffic congestion resulting from Puna commuters and installs the infrastructure such as urban sewage systems capable of handling half or 1 acre densities, installs fire hydrants, sidewalks, street lighting, we respectfully request that urban rezoning or lots smaller than 3 acres not be considered until the proper infrastructure is in place. As director of the county planning department, I can appreciate your responsibility in supporting projects to stimulate our economy and keep up with community growth. However, it is the responsibility of government officials to protect the county from liability, protect the counties land and resources and the rights of its citizens. The county general plan stated purpose is to 1) identify, protect and maintain important agriculture lands on the island of Hawaii, 2) preserve the agricultural character of the island, and 3)preserve and enhance opportunities for the expansion of Hawaii's agricultural industry. When making your recommendation to the County Council, please consider those of us who actually live at Panaewa and invested our lives when we purchased our land, built our homes and want to raise our families in an agricultural community setting. If you have any questions regarding this request, please feel free to email me at trent @hawaii.edu. Thank you very much for your time. Sincerely, Trent Y. Hata cc. The Honorable Dennis "Fresh" Onishi, County Council The Honorable William Kenoi, Mayor