PD RECOMMENDATION REPORT (PL-SPP-2022-017)

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those uses to which they are best suited in the interest of the public welfare of the people and the State of Hawaii. In the case of the Agricultural District, the intent is to preserve or keep lands of high agricultural potential in agricultural uses. The subject property is not considered to have high agricultural potential from a resource perspective due to the soil type and its low productivity rating, which is typically used for grazing pasture lands and not agriculture. Furthermore, the property has largely been cleared and developed with the proposed warehouse structure. As evaluated above, the applicants' request is considered an unusual and reasonable use of agricultural land that will not adversely affect the preservation of lands with high agricultural potential in the County of Hawaii. While the property is designated for agricultural use by both the State and zoned for agriculture by the County, it is envisioned in both the General Plan and Puna Community Development Plan as a commercial node and village center. This area has historically been developed with Special Permits for a number of commercial and community service activities, rather than rezoning due to the challenges of implementing infrastructure, such as water availability and roadway improvements, required for rezoning. Thus, the establishment of the proposed use will not be contrary to the objectives sought to be accomplished by the State Land Use Law and Regulations. (B) The desired use would not adversely affect surrounding properties. Most of the immediately surrounding properties are zoned Agricultural (A-3a) and are over one acre in size. As previously discussed, this area has been developed for decades as the commercial hub/village center in the area with a commercial center (Orchidland Estates Convenience Center) directly adjacent to the subject property, a restaurant, a church, and most recently a Special Permit was issued for a public charter school kitty corner across Orchidland Drive. Other uses in the immediate area are characterized by a mix of farms, single-family residences, and vacant, undeveloped parcels. The nearest dwelling is located approximately 50-feet adjacent to the south of the subject property. Aside from the complaint which preceded the warning letter for the unpermitted use, the Planning Department has no record of other community complaints. The applicant has represented that they will abandon the driveway access on 34 h Avenue and -4-