PD Background Report (PL-SPP-2023-000040)

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density, industrial and/or open designations in areas where new settlement patterns may be desirable, but where the specific settlement pattern and mix of uses have not yet been determined. Within areas designated for development as resorts,portions of the resort area may be included in the urban expansion area. Although the applicant states that the mostly vacant lands adjacent to the project site will not be developed within the next ten years,periodic review by the Planning Commission is necessary to ensure that the compatibility of the heliport with any existing or other uses allowed within an Urban Expansion Area are maintained. As urban development is encouraged within the immediate area and traffic along the Queen Ka`ahumanu Highway and Waikoloa Road increases, the potential conflict between these uses and facilities and the heliport will also increase. Therefore, by providing an opportunity for periodic review by the Planning Commission, the continued operation of the heliport for an additional ten-year period is not contrary to the objectives sought to be accomplished by the General Plan. The continued use of the heliport would be consistent with the following goals, policies and standards of the Land Use and Economic Elements of the General Plan. Land Use Element • Designate and allocate lands in appropriate proportions and mix and in keeping with the social, cultural and physical environments of the County. Economic Element • Economic development and improvement shall be in balance with the physical and social environments of the island of Hawaii. • The County shall provide an economic environment which allows new, expanded, or improved economic opportunities that are compatible with the County's natural and social environment. • The County shall strive for diversification of its economy by strengthening existing industries and attracting new endeavors. Based on the above considerations, the continued use of the Waikoloa Heliport is approved for an additional ten(10)years until June 30,2025. -3-