*PD RECOMMENDATION REPORT (PL-SPP-2022-016)

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Hawaii Organics Facility or other suitable location. A condition of approval will be added to require the applicant to follow DEM requirements for disposal of solid waste. The property is situated within an area designated as Flood Zone "X," or an area determined by FEMA to be outside the 500-year flood plain. Off -grid, solar powered electricity is provided at the subject property. The photovoltaic system consists of 72 panels, 20-kilowatt-hour battery bank and an 18-kilowatt propane back-up generator. Police, Fire, and medical services are available nearby in Pahoa. Based on the preceding, the requested use will not burden public agencies to provide additional services. (D) Unusual conditions, trends, and needs have arisen since district boundaries and regulations were established. In the 1960's and 1970's, the State's agricultural district boundaries and regulations were established and subsequently amended pursuant to HRS Chapter 205. The State Land Use Commission was created in 1961, and interim regulations and temporary district boundaries became effective in 1962. Subsequently, the regulations and Land Use District Boundaries became effective in August of 1964. The property and surrounding areas are designated for agricultural uses by both State and County land use laws. Through the issuance of a Special Permit, a community may establish various non-agricultural uses/services that may not be available or allowed by zoning for its residents. Since the district boundaries were established, demand has increased for alternative health and wellness tourism for guests who seek a more peaceful, remote environment as an alternative to resort venues. The proposed uses would meet this demand by providing visitors an opportunity to participate in wellness retreats and training classes in a remote, peaceful environment. (E) The land upon which the proposed use is sought is unsuited for the uses permitted within the district. The property is situated on soil that is classified as " Y' or "Other" by the Department of Agriculture's ALISH Map and is classified as "E" or "Very Poor" by the Land Study Bureau's Soil Rating. The properties' soil type is classified as Malama extremely cobbly highly decomposed plant material, dry, 2 to 40 percent slopes. These soils are most suitable for pasture use, and are unsuited for large- -7-