PD RECOMMENDATION REPORT (PL-SPP-2022-000018)

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and plans to construct a non-potable well, both of which the applicant believes should reduce use of County water. Additionally, as previously mentioned, the new guest rooms will likely be primarily single occupancy and should not significantly increase potable water demand. Based on the preceding, the Planning Director recommends a condition be added to the permit to limit use of the County potable water to an average of 400 gallons per day and provide any additional potable water from on-site potable water storage tanks. The applicant proposes to install additional septic system(s) to address the wastewater needs of the additional guest rooms. In an email dated November 25, 2022, the Department of Health(DOH) indicated that the additional individual wastewater systems could negatively impact the ocean due to proximity and soil type,however, despite attempts to follow up by the applicant, DOH has not specified a preferred method of wastewater disposal. According to the applicant, they will comply with DOH requirements if the proposed septic tanks are deemed insufficient during the building permit process, including the potential installation of an anaerobic septic system. A condition of approval will be included requiring that the applicant install a wastewater treatment and disposal system meeting with the approval of DOH. (D) Unusual conditions, trends, and needs have arisen since district boundaries and regulations were established. In the 1960's and 1970's, the State's agricultural district boundaries and regulations were established and subsequently amended pursuant to HRS Chapter 205. Since then, demand has increased for alternative health and wellness tourism for guests who seek a more peaceful, remote environment as an alternative to resort venues. The amendment request would meet this demand by increasing availability of accommodations for visitors seeking such an alternative that incorporates agricultural uses into the healing and wellness experience being offered by the existing retreat center. (E) The land upon which the proposed use is sought is unsuited for the uses permitted within the district. While this criteria for approval of a Special Permit seeks to utilize "unsuitable" agricultural lands for non-agricultural uses, the Planning Department recommended approval for the original Special Permit based on the notion -5-