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Discussion: Approval of the requested Special Permit would be in line with the <br /> economic, environmental duality, natural beauty, energy, recreation, natural <br /> resource, and land use goals and policies of the General Plan. The proposed <br /> project would allow a temporary, reception-only, station to research Fast Radio <br /> Bursts. Hawaii Island is well known for its scientific advancements in <br /> astronomy. Ka`u in particular is a unique radio-quiet area, which is required to <br /> study the phenomenon. The proposed action would require minimal grading on <br /> less than one (1) acre. Impacts to scenic views and noise will be negligible due to <br /> the significant distance from all neighboring parcels owned by other landowners. <br /> There would be no impacts to recreation or energy as the proposed use will <br /> operate solely from solar panels (approximately 25-30 panels). No significant <br /> impacts to environmental quality or natural resources are expected. There are no <br /> known historical, archaeological, or cultural sites on the property, however, in the <br /> event any inadvertent discoveries are made, work will cease, and the applicants <br /> will immediately notify the Planning Department and the State Historic <br /> Preservation Division for appropriate action. <br /> Since the proposed land use will be temporary, the applicant will return the <br /> Property to its original condition after the termination of the lease. The requested <br /> action creates a unique opportunity to advance science, research, and education <br /> while preserving agricultural land. <br /> Ka`u Community Development Plan <br /> The Ka`u Community Development Plan (KCDP) attempts to further define the <br /> General Plan and serves as a guide for decision-makers. The proposed special use <br /> request is conducive to the following goals, objectives and policies outlined in the <br /> KCDP. <br /> 4.3 Protect Agricultural Lands & Open Space <br /> This section of the CDP protects agricultural land and open space from non- <br /> agricultural development with the CDP Land Use Policy Map, urban growth <br /> boundaries, limits on Special Permits and lot sizes, and restrictions on residential <br /> development. <br /> 4.3.1 Community Objectives <br /> Objective 2: Preserve prime and other viable agricultural lands and <br /> preserve and enhance viewscapes that exemplify Ka`u's rural character. <br /> 16 <br />