PD Background Report Ackerman Ranch (PL-SPP-2023-056)

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I. INTRODUCTION Ackerman Ranch Inc ("applicant")is requesting a special permit to allow the operation of an event venue to host weddings and other similar gatherings on a designated approximately 4-acre portion of land within their larger 193.77-acre parcel identified by TMK: (3) 7-9- 012:004 and 2.14-acre parcel identified by TMK: (3) 7-9-012:031. The project area is located on the upper portion of the parcels, along the west side of the Mamalahoa Highway Bypass, about 0.4 miles north of its intersection with Haleki`i Street(Figure 1). Both parcels are located within the State Land Use Agricultural District. Parcel 004 is zoned Agriculture-1 acres (A-la), and Parcel 031 is zoned Agricutural-5 acres (A-5a). The properties are currently used for cattle grazing. If approved, the applicant plans to host weddings and other events for up to 200 guests on an approximately 4-acre portion of the properties. The applicant believes there is a lack of gathering places for families and community members to come together for celebrations such as weddings, funerals, birthdays, graduation parties, etc. Recognizing this need, the applicant envisions the creation of a low-impact event venue area, designed to accommodate up to 200 guests. The goal is to provide a natural, yet elegant backdrop where individuals can gather and commemorate special occasions. Situated in the midst of a nearly 200-acre cattle ranch, and with the closest dwelling more than 1,300 feet away, the venue provides a private and serene atmosphere with a low impact to neighboring properties and the existing agricultural use of the land. Beyond the broader community benefit, the Ackerman family, boasting a long-established legacy in the ranching and cattle industry, seeks to bring diversity into their business by offering a small portion of their properties as an event space. Their envisioned diversification endeavors to maintain the integrity of the land, ensuring that any changes are minimally intrusive and do not affect the cattle ranching operations on the remainder of the parcels. Thus, the project proposes to have a minimal impact on the land, while at the same providing a needed service and bolstering support of other local businesses (i.e., catering companies, rental supply companies, etc.). As the subject parcel is designated Agricultural by the State Land Use Commission, a Special Permit is required to allow the requested use. A similar Special Permit Application (SPP 15-000177)was approved for an event venue approximately 2 miles away on a ranch on April 13, 2015. As this request is very similar in nature, its approval would be in keeping with other such land uses. 4