SPP-21-000227 9.14.2021 B. MCCANDLESS TESTIMONY LATE

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Audrey & Ben McCandless 83-5410 Middle Keei Road Captain Cook, HI 96704 2021-09-14 Mr. Chair Vitousek and Members Leeward Planning Commission 101 Pauahi Street Hilo, HI 96720 Dear Mr. Chair Vitousek and Members of the Leeward Planning Commission: We write to you today in regards to Special Permit No. 21-000227, concerning Kona Aerials Gymnastic Team Inc., who wishes to operate a youth gymnastics and sport fitness facility at 75-438 Hualalai Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740. There is no similar enterprise elsewhere in the Kailua-Kona area. We request that you vote to approve Special Permit 21-000227. Our family has had between one and three members (including both children and adults) for the last six years. Both of our children have clearly benefitted from the time they have spent training there. In a time when many kids spend most of their free time using electronic devices, this is an opportunity for them to develop physical strength, endurance, and coordination. More importantly, it has provided them with an opportunity to train with others at all skill levels, candidly assess their own performance, and work to improve it. We would find it hard to overstate the value of this experience. We would also point out the value that Kona Aerials brings to the community; In addition the the adult fitness classes, Kona Aerials fields a competitive team of gymnasts that travel within the state and to the mainland. For many children and young adults, this provides a valuable opportunity to meet other gymnasts at both the state and national level, learn from them, and compete against them. For some the time they have invested in this training can lead to college scholarships and/or career opportunities. It is our hope that your approval of this special permit will allow our family and community to continue to make use of this resource. Thank you for your time and consideration, Audrey & Ben McCandless