PD RECOMMENDATION REPORT (PL-SMA-2023-000027)

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In review of the SMA guidelines as listed under HRS 205A-26(2)(A), the proposed development will not have any substantial adverse environmental or ecological effect, except as such adverse effect is minimized to the extent practicable and clearly outweighed by public health, safety, or compelling public interest. In considering the significance of potential environmental effects, the Director shall consider the sum of those effects that adversely affect the quality of the environment and shall evaluate the overall and cumulative effects of the action on the Special Management Area. Such adverse effects shall include, but not be limited to, the potential cumulative impact of individual developments, each one of which taken in itself might not have a substantial adverse effect and eliminate planning options. The proposed amendment to Condition No. 7 of SMA No. 51 will not adversely affect the quality of the environment but may enhance it. At times, long term public parking at this site has permitted the accumulation of trash and other hazardous materials to accumulate which could be considered a cumulative effect on the environment. Allowing for consistent management could help to alleviate that and provide a relatively safe and clean parking area. The subject parcel has been used as a parking area since the original development was approved in the 1970s. This proposed amendment to the SMA permit will continue the use as a public parking area, but with the ability for the applicant to manage the site as needed. In reviewing the proposed development against the factors that may constitute a substantial adverse effect as listed under Planning Commission Rule 9-10 (H) (1-10), it has been determined that the proposed request to amend SMA 51 Condition No. 7 will not have a significant adverse environmental or ecological effect upon the Special Management Area. This determination is based on the following: In review of the SMA guidelines as listed under HRS 205A-26, the proposed development is consistent with the objectives and policies as provided by Chapter 205A-26, HRS, and Special Management Area guidelines contained in Rule No. 9 of the Planning Commission Rules of Practice and Procedure. The purpose of Chapter 205A-26, Hawai`i Revised Statutes (HRS) and Rule 9 of the Planning Commission Rules of Practice and Procedure, is to preserve, protect, and -3-