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to map networks of agencies, non-profits, community organizations,business associa- <br /> tions and more, which can play a role in implementing the CDP. He encouraged all of <br /> us to find where our interests and the CDP actions coincide, and get involved. <br /> A few excerpts from the community conversation with Director Kern <br /> Lanakila Mangauil noted that if the CDP had been implemented already and we had <br /> achieved sustainability, COVID would not have been as big a crisis; it was shocking <br /> how many didn't have access to food. Native Hawaiian wisdom can teach us how to <br /> malama aina, and he and his community are ready and willing to participate. <br /> Michelle Hartman asked Brad if the AC meetings were open, and offered to bring in- <br /> formation to the Hamakua Business Association, which covers the entire Hamakua <br /> coast. <br /> Meizhu asked about the Agriculture Plan, a community project completed some years <br /> ago and put on the shelf. Can it be revived? Zendo said he's very interested in devel- <br /> oping agriculture,but we must work through a variety of barriers, from the high price <br /> of land, to the low pay for farmworkers, lack of farm dwellings, involving youth, get- <br /> ting to scale. There will be a need for creative options, not one-size-fits-all. <br /> Cory Harden wondered why Zendo had not filled appointments to the ACs. He said he <br /> was taking a minute to learn, to gather data,before making decisions. It was a pause, <br /> not a stop. <br /> Francine Roby wondered whether broadband expansion is a County policy or a com- <br /> munity action. April Suprenant, from Planning, clarified that it is both, it's an area <br /> where County and community must work together. Heather Kimball, our County <br /> Counselor, is very involved in a broadband hui that is mapping where there is and isn't <br /> service; residents need to be surveyed since providers don't know the dead spots. <br /> Don Rudny mentioned damage to our ecosystem, such as from Hu Honua, illegal <br /> dumping, improper farming practices. He said a pro-active, aggressive approach is <br /> needed. Zendo said the shoreline setbacks will help; also, education of the public on <br /> proper farming techniques is needed, and then better enforcement of existing rules. <br /> Lanakila was concerned about gentrification, and keeping Hamakua homes affordable, <br /> including the tax rates. Zendo's own background born and raised in low-income island <br /> neighborhoods makes him very committed to not forcing locals to move off island. <br />