2023-03-13 Minutes Approved - Laserfiche WebLink

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PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMISSION MINUTES March 13, 2023 Public Meeting Hilo County Building 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1401 Hilo, HI, 96720 CALL TO ORDER: On March 13, 2023, the regular meeting of the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission (PONC) was called to order at 10:00 am by Chr. Chang. The Chair welcomed all in attendance and introduced the Commissioners of the Commission; those present constituted a quorum. Present: Deborah Chang, Chairperson (CHR.) Alex Kelepolo, Vice Chair (V.CHR.) La Crivello, Commissioner Deborah J. Ward, Commissioner Jodie Rosam, Commissioner Shellie Bee Allen Naungayan, Commissioner Justin Lee, Commissioner Absent District 4 (vacant) Diane Kaneali'i (excused) Support Staff: Jean Campbell, Deputy Corporation Counsel Representative Hamana Ventura, Property Manager Department of Finance Maxine Cutler, Commission Secretary OFFICE OF THE MAYOR: Mayor Mitchell D. Roth addressed the Commission and thanked them for the vital work that they are doing. He supports sustainability, affordable housing, and "putting people to work." He updated the Commission about future acquisitions, such as Mahukona, slated to close this year. Lastly, he recognized the group from the Waimea Trails and expressed his support for that project. STATEMENT(S) FROM THE PUBLIC: Chr. Chang opened the floor for public testimony and explained that participants could choose to testify either during the testimony period or before the agenda item. Ms. Debbie Hecht chose to testify first and proceeded to the microphone. Ms. Hecht testified in support of the 2% fund and spoke about her long relationship with the program. She identified herself as the current president of the Moku O Keawe Land Conservancy. She gave a brief Approve Minutes of March 13, 2023 Page 1