2020-03-09 Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission Minutes-Approved

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Cultural Corridor in No. Kohala which is Kamehameha Homelands. Mahukona has native historical significance with burial sites and abundance of archeologi- cal findings. Toni points out the landowner has been actively seeking a buyer for the land. Janet Britt: in support of Sugg. 20-020, was speaking for the Mako O Keawe Land Conservancy. It has uncapped water springs and 27 acres used for Kalo and Taro farming, high potential for Agri. farming. With several existing buildings, they can be used for educational purposes. They have a letter from the landowner who is interested in working with their commission. Deborah Chang: in support of Sugg. 20-015, and tells the commission that she submitted a written testimony. She talks about the need for shoreline public ac- cess for these lots which was part already part of the subdivision plans. She gives a background history of the problems of the public access as stated in her letter. Jaerick Garcia: in support of Sugg. 20-015, as part of the community and Maka- hanaloa Fisherman’s Association, he is also the caretaker of the lot. He presents to the commission signatures of fishermen supporting this nomination. He tells how their access was blocked by the illegal driveway which was built over it. The property has historical value and significance to the community and public. Matt Clark: in support of Sugg. 20-015, a member of ASM Affiliates, he performed an Archeological Inventory Survey for the landowners in 2013 has rich plantation heritage and traditional landscape of Hilo Bay. He says the landowners are will- ing sellers. He also in support of Sugg. 20-016, verifies high cultural and historical significance in the area. With community support for both nomination, both is a perfect fit for the PONC program. Lokelani Brandt: in support of Sugg. 20-015, as a native of Hilo and researcher for ASM Affiliates, she gives a cultural and native historical background of the area. She points out the landscape importance of Makahana Noa and Pepe’ekeo Point. This was the point where Hiiaka looked towards Puna and saw the smoke where her sister \[Pele\] had devastated the landscape. The views are rich in land- scape and hopes it is preserved. Reyna Hayashi: in support of Sugg. 20-016, as the Project Manager for the Trust for Public Lands (TPL) are partnering with Ala Kahakai Trails Association (ATA) of this parcel. This parcel is part of larger efforts in protecting the Ka’u coastal lands for the community. They have a willing seller and working on grant funding. Hawai‘i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. Page 2 of 10