REP PC 078 2014/10/14 (2012-2014)

Home

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PLANNING REGARDING: Communication No. 1072/Resolution No. 544-14 DATE: October 14, 2014 LOCATION: Council Chambers, Kona, Hawai'i TITLE: A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE PLANING DIRECTOR, MANAGER -CHIEF ENGINEER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF WATER SUPPLY, AND PLANNING COMMISSIONS TO REVIEW PLANNING DEPARTMENT RULE NO. 22-7 AND CONSIDER EXPANDING ACCESS TO WATER VARIANCES FOR NEW SUBDIVISIONS. EXPLANATION: Resolution No. 544-14 introduced by Council Member Valerie Poindexter via Communication No. 1072, dated September 26, 2014. A motion to approve Resolution No. 544-14, and send to Council with a positive recommendation was made by Ms. Poindexter and seconded by Mr. Ilagan. Resolution No. 544-14 asks for a review and analysis from the Planning Director, in consultation with the Leeward and Windward Planning Commissions and the Manager -Chief Engineer of the Department of Water Supply, to determine if revisions to allow for expanded eligibility for applications for water variances could be applied without causing detrimental impacts to the safety and welfare of the County. There were no testifiers present for this matter at your Committee. However, a lengthy discussion was held by your Committee Members. After a brief introduction, history, and intent of Resolution was provided by the introducer, Committee Members expressed support of Resolution and shared concerns. Although, Ms. Ford shared opposing concerns, prompting Planning Director, Duane Kanuha, present in Kona, to provide a brief history of how water variances were handled from the late 70s/early 80s until now, along with his understanding of Resolution. After discussion, Committee Members extended appreciation to Ms. Poindexter for approach to water variance concern via resolution. This allows for an open discussion with the public, respective departments and expertise. Your Committee is in accord with the purpose and intent of Resolution No. 544-14.