PD BACKGROUND REPORT (SPP-19-212)

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accurately depicted by its LUPAG designation as rural. Thus, a residence with a small family owned and operated business serving the local community would be a suitable use of the land which otherwise would be unlikely to be successfully used for agriculture due to its poor soil quality. 4F The proposed use will not substantially alter or change the essential character of the land and the present use. By allowing the applicant to build their home and business, they will utilize a parcel of land that would otherwise be overgrown by invasive species. As the soil quality of the land is very poor, it is unlikely that the property would be successfully used for agriculture. Thus, the proposed use would utilize the land to its highest and best use thereby meeting the criteria of this section. 4G The proposed use will not be contrary to the goals, polices, and standards of the General Plan and other applicable documents such as the Puna Community Development Plan. The General Plan states under Economic goals 2.2A, "Provide residents with the opportunity to improve their quality of life through economic development that enhances the county's natural and social environments", and 2.2B "Economic development and improvements shall be in balance with the physical, social, and cultural environments of the Island of Hawaii". In addition, it states under 2.2E Economic Goals, "Strive for an economic climate that provides its residents an opportunity for choice of occupation". The proposed request clearly meets the goals of the GP outlined above. The proposed clinic will provide an opportunity for the land owners to be self-employed in a manner that serves the health and wellness of their community, providing a convenient location for many residents of Puna to seek chiropractic, acupuncture, and massage services. The Puna Community Development Plan (PCDP) attempts to further define the General Plan and serves as a guide for decision- makers. Based on the Puna Community Development Plan's goals and objectives, the proposed project is conducive for the Puna community as it conforms to the following goals of the PCDP: 3.1.1 Goals a. Puna retains a rural character while it protects its native natural and cultural resources. b. The quality of life improves and economic opportunity expands for Puna's residents. a Services and community facilities are more accessible in village/town centers that are distributed throughout the