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From: Jennifer Johansen <br /> To: WPCtestimonv <br /> Subject: Punalu"u <br /> Date: Monday, March 4, 2024 7:58:52 PM <br /> Aloha members of the Winward Planning Commission. <br /> I am writing to express my opposition to the proposed developments at Punalu'u by Black <br /> Sand LLC. I am a volunteer beach steward and a witness to the overcrowding of the beach due <br /> to tourism. Visitors regularly attempt to fill containers with black sand to take home as a <br /> souvenir and zealously approach basking turtles for photo opportunities, including throwing <br /> sand at them in hopes they will open their eyes for a picture. Most tourists use non-reef <br /> friendly sunscreens and heavy laundry detergents; I regularly smell chemicals from these <br /> products while swimming and on the beach. Punalu'u does not need developments that will <br /> bring more people onto the beach. <br /> Increasing tides are bringing unforeseen changes to the coastline. Prior to even considering <br /> any type of development at Punalu'u the following are needed: 1) an EIS 2)new high tide <br /> marks that align with rising sea levels and king tides, and 3)burial treatment plans for Iwi <br /> kupuna. <br /> Please protect this undeveloped stretch of Ka'u coastal property for kanaka maoli and <br /> kamaaina. <br /> Mahalo, <br /> Jennifer Johansen <br />