2010-02-05 TWITHERS - Laserfiche WebLink

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vendors that they’ve been working with. We previously submitted letters of support from surrounding owners. I’m not sure if there’s going to be an opposition today. But we are here today to talk about a few of the conditions that we are seeking some adjustment on. But before I go into that I wanted to have Patsy explain some of the background and history of how this project came to be from beginning to where we’re at now, and then I’ll go into why, to some extent that relates to the conditions. So, thank you. P. WITHERS: Good morning, thank you. We purchased our property back in 1987. WOODWARD: Excuse me, if you could give us your name and address, please. P. WITHERS: Oh, Patsy Withers, 27-999 Old Mamalahoa Highway, Pepeekeo, 96783. WOODWARD: Okay, thank you. Now you may begin. P. WITHERS: Okay, thank you. IWASHITA: Mr. Chair? Sorry. WOODWARD: Yes. IWASHITA: Sorry for the interruption, but I wanted to disclose that I know the applicants from a long time ago. She’s actually very good friends with my cousin; and that’s really the extent of my knowledge of them. But just for the purposes of being extra careful about conflict of interest and stuff, I want to disclose that and say that that relationship, if you want to call it, is not going to impact my decision. WOODWARD: Very good, thank you. P. WITHERS: We purchased our property in 1987 and at that time it was a macadamia nut orchard. Tim and I decided to then diversify our crops by planting many other fruit trees, including bananas, lichee, mangoes, citrus, avocado, rambutan and guavas. We’ve established a crop for vendors such as Don Quiote, Whole Foods, and The Good Earth. We began operating “What’s Shakin” back in 1994. At that time we offered small gift items, such as post cards, for visitors to take home. We sell all items from local vendors. We also work closely with Suisan, HFM, and local bakers, and have throughout our whole years of business. We are able to employ five to six employees at any given time, including myself and Tim who works on the farm. Being at “What’s Shakin” every day I hear only rave reviews from visitors and returning local residents. We are now a destination for many. And I’m told daily how “What’s Shakin” was their favorite spot on their entire trip. We are proud to offer such a positive and memorable experience. Due to the low tourism and economy and the bridge closure on the Scenic Drive, our business has suffered dramatically. The period between September through November the road has been closed to through traffic. We didn’t want to lose our valuable employees so we tried our best to keep their hours and keep them employed. And so here we are due to receiving notice about 3 EXHIBIT A