PD Background Report (PL-SPP-2023-000041)

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Furthermore, the requested B&B use could add to the guests' interest in native Hawaiian plants and other local agricultural crops, and thus indirectly help foster the interest and growth in the coffee and related agriculture industry. In that regard, the requested use would fulfill the General Plan's agriculture objective. The request would also not be contrary to the goals, policies, and standards of the General Plan and Puna Community Development Plan. In addition to the above, all applicable requirements of the Zoning Code and/or other permits can and will be complied with. Relative to the proposed maximum 4-room B&B, it is already allowed in the County Agriculture Zone, subject to it meeting with the criteria outlined in the Code. This project will adhere to all of those criteria, such as not exceeding the maximum number of five (5) bedrooms; not having more than ten (10) guests; and having the owner and/or operator live on the premise. The site is not within the Special Management Area (SMA). As such, a SMA Permit would not be required. It should also be noted that the Tourism Strategic Plan prepared by the Hawaii Tourism Authority in 1999 recommended that the State look into Tourism niche market opportunities. Two (2) of these -although somewhat overlapping -are Agri -Tourism and Edu-Tourism. Agri -Tourism is travel for education with an agricultural emphasis. Edu-Tourism is along that line with an emphasis on education and training in Hawaii's unique natural and multi- cultural environment. Our overall program completely reflects this effort. This is an especially important marketing component to Asian countries, particularly Japan, where there is a strong agrarian base. C. Impacts to Surrounding Properties As noted above, the land use in this area is generally rural/residential in nature and except for the subject property there are very limited, if at all, agricultural activities in this area. For the most part, the immediately surrounding lots are used and/or zoned for residential and agricultural purposes. Given the existing and zoned conditions, the proposed maximum 4-room B&B would blend in perfectly into the residential/rural/agricultural pattern of this area.