2009-12-04 TMALA MOHALA - Laserfiche WebLink

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IWASHITA: My wife is from Naalehu. ENRIQUES: But it is a beautiful place out there. I want to thank all of you for allowing me to speak today. It’s refreshing to be on the other side of the table and seeing you guys over there. But what I’m not comfortable with is you guys get to question me back. I’ll get used to that one. Okay. I’ve passed out my testimony to you. I’ve been asked to weigh in on this situation from several constituents who had concerns. And as I kind of dug into this I realized there was need for concern. And so I made the effort that you people couldn’t do. And I think it’s important that I share with you the information that I did come up. It’s on two fronts. One is things that actually you deal with and the second front more in what I deal with. But I think the ends should meet some place between your concerns and my concerns. Just to let you know I did have two meetings with the applicant, and they were very positive meetings. I’d like to go to the concerns or the research that I did come up with, one item at a time, because I think they are important. I would like to give you my conclusion, as well as a recommendation. So that’s where I’m heading. First in regards to issues that I think pertain to you: The buildings erected without permits and in the wrong area. That was one of the first things that struck me as pretty bold. Secondly, no licensing available at this time. And it could be because of the uniqueness of this project as we’ve discussed with the applicant, and to the uncertainty of the programs being offered might be a reason for why we don’t have the appropriate licensing. However, this is the first time I’ve met Mr. Silva or talked to him today. I do agree with him in terms of oversight. I think in this type of business you need it, especially when you deal with kids. I have a masters in education. I’ve taught for 12 years and I, especially in the business of special ed where I’ve worked for six years on Mt. Hood working with kids, not of this particular type but in similar business lines. But in regards to this particular situation having oversight I think is very important, especially having oversight or licensing before you give the permit. What if they don’t get it and you’ve extended this? That is the question that brings to bear -. So those, No. 2 the fact that building was done pretty boldly without recommendations and the licensing pertaining to you. More in regards to my concern deals with integration with the community, community health and safety. These are some of the things I found from talking to the neighbors and people that I try to, in and around that area. Now I live as the mynah bird flies maybe three miles away. But, you know, to get around to that area, probably takes me five or six. But I tried to circle around the area finding people that I would know who would have more information than I could dig up. But here are some of the things of concern: Complaints that the vans were speeding on those back roads. If you’ve ever travelled those roads, there are areas where you can go fairly fast. There’s an intersection where there are couple homes that are built. But one of the neighbors 13 EXHIBIT B