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

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Coastal Ecosystems and Marine Resources: The subject property abuts the shoreline; however, the distance of the proposed development and the conditions of construction permits will minimize potential impacts to coastal resources such as soil erosion. All mandated setbacks and government regulations related to runoff and nearshore waters will be adhered to. No threatened or endangered animal or plant species are present and as such no adverse impact to flora, fauna, or ecosystems would be expected to result from the proposed development or any activities associated with the use. Coastal Hazards: The property is located within Flood Zone X, outside of the 500-year flood area, and is not located within the tsunami inundation zone. Since the subject property is located a minimum of 170 feet above mean sea level. The Pali of the adjacent property experienced catastrophic sloughing in 2015. Sometime in 2018, the Pali on the subject parcel also experienced sloughing to a much lesser degree. According to recent findings in a report prepared by the US Geological Survey, in conjunction with the University of Hawai'i, the most"aggressive" episodic sloughing over an extended period is forecast to be 8-inches per year (8-in/yr.). To mitigate this risk, the applicant is proposing to place the Primary Farm Dwelling 160 feet from the Pali edge. Based on current projections, if aggressive sloughing were to continue, it would take 240 years to reach the dwelling. Additionally, the applicant is proposing to sow vetiver grass in the 3/4 acre area adjacent to the vertical Pali which should help stabilize the entire area and produce livestock feed in the process. Lastly, the applicant plans to selectively prune the Hau at the Pali edge which may serve to strengthen the Hau, promoting root and stem vigor to help stabilize and preserve the Pali. Based on the above information, the proposed development is consistent with the objectives and policies of Chapter 205A, HRS. The proposed development is consistent with the County General Plan, Hamakua Community Development Plan (HCDP), Zoning Code and other applicable ordinances. The General Plan Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide (LUPAG) for the County of Hawai`i is a policy document expressing the broad goals and policies -6-