2006-05-26 Planning Commission Minutes

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ForCommissioner Galdones information, Ms. Fujimoto said they have visited many centers in the State and elsewhere but were trying to create something unique that is sensitive to the local needs of the communities. Commissioner Graham noted as the applicants representatives have been in the community for many years, the public testimony to be given is reflective on people knowing them in the community. Commissioner Graham expressed his concern of the Land Use Commissions comment regarding the 15 acres. Mr. Mooers explained that LUCs concerns were based on the fact that the applicant mentioned all the things the applicant does even though it may not be part of the Special Permit, noting the applicant will only be using 13.649 acres for their project. He clarified that the application talks about reforestation, certain ecological efforts, agriculture, etc. that are not part of this special permit. He added this matter was clarified with the LUC staff whosubsequentlyacknowledgedtheotheruseswerenotpartofthisspecialpermit. BobLindsey,BoardMemberoftheKohalaCenterwhoislookingtobeaprimarypartnerwith the New Moon Foundation, spoke in support of the programs. He said by working with New Moon Foundation, they will be able to focus their attention and concentrate their resources to bringing greater educational opportunities to the youth of North Kohala and restore the natural environment and respect to the Hawaiian and local cultures. Elizabeth Cole, noting she worked with the Kohala Center, called the Commissions attention to Hawaii Island Economic Development Boards whole hearted support of the application. She said the development will provide the community access to new accommodations with a future focus on higher education and training opportunities. Richard Stevens, UH teacher and coordinator of the reforestation project at the Veterans Cemetery, strongly urged the approval of the application. He said one of the best things that has happened to Kohala was the arrival of New Moon and it was very rare to find a landowner with concern for the land, culture, and community, with the primary focus on preservation and restoration. Matt Hamabata, Executive Director of the Kohala Center, stated they were honored to be part of this project. He explained their partnership program with the various universities in the environmental, ocean and botanical sciences. In response to Commissioner Grahams inquiry, Mr. Hamabata explained that the Kohala Center will be operating the campus and the New Moon Foundation will be responsible for the land stewardship of the ahupuaa. Curtis Tyler testified in support of what he felt was a needed facility in the community. For Director Yuens information, Mr. Mooers said the exterior of the Kohala Girls School is the reason the building is on the historic register; and all improvements made to that School will have to be approved by the State Historic Preservation Division. 5