PD RECOMMENDATION REPORT (PL-SMA-2023-000034)

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gulch and outside the project area. In preparation for the proposed farm and residences, the applicant conducted a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) to identify and recognized environmental conditions to better understand any potential hazards that remain from the 100+ years of sugarcane agriculture The ESA report found that while there is evidence of significant agriculture and agriculturally related development on the parcel, there is no evidence of recognized environmental conditions that would warrant remediation. The applicant has proposed to exceed the minimum 40-foot shoreline setback by locating construction to more than 160 feet from the top of pali (shoreline) and as such the proposed development would not affect any coastal resources nor adversely affect public use or recreation in this area. In reviewing the proposed development against the factors that may constitute a substantial adverse effect as listed under Planning Commission Rule 9-10 (H) (1-10), it has been determined that the proposed project to develop a Ulu farm with residential structures and related development on 7.35-acres of land will not have a significant adverse environmental or ecological effect upon the Special Management Area. This determination is based on the following: In review of the SMA guidelines as listed under HRS 205A-26, the proposed development is consistent with the objectives and policies as provided by Chapter 205A-26, HRS, and Special Management Area guidelines contained in Rule No. 9 of the Planning Commission Rules of Practice and Procedure. The purpose of Chapter 205A-26, Hawai`i Revised Statutes (HRS) and Rule 9 of the Planning Commission Rules of Practice and Procedure, is to preserve, protect, and where possible, to restore the natural resources of the coastal zone areas. Therefore, special controls on development within an area along the shoreline are necessary to avoid permanent loss of valuable resources and the foreclosure of management options. The objectives and policies of Chapter 205A-26, HRS and Rule 9-10(h) include, but are not limited to, the protection of coastal recreational resources, historic resources, scenic and open space resources, coastal ecosystems, marine resources, beaches, and controlling development in coastal hazard areas. -4-