PD RECOMMENDATION REPORT (PL-SPP-2024-000063)

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Based on the preceding,the proposed request is consistent with the Rural LUPAG designation and Land Use and Economic goals and policies of the General Plan. The Puna Community Development Plan (PCDP) does not specifically address Special Permits for Churches on agricultural lands,however,the PCDP generally supports the development of social services and community support facilities for the residents of Puna. Approval of the proposed request will allow the applicant an opportunity to improve the quality of life in this area while providing a service to residents in the community. Based on the preceding,the request is consistent with the goals and objectives of the PCDP. The proposed use is not contrary to the objectives sought to be accomplished by Chapter 205A, Hawaii Revised Statutes, relating to coastal zone management program. The subject property is located approximately 3 miles from the nearest shoreline, is not within the Special Management Area and will not be impacted by coastal hazard and beach erosion.There is no designated public access to the mountain or shoreline areas over the property. As such, the proposed use will not adversely impact any recreational resources, including access to and along the shoreline, scenic and open space nor visual resources, coastal ecosystems, and marine and coastal resources. Therefore, the proposed use is not contrary to the objectives of Chapter 205A, Hawaii Revised Statutes. The request will not have a significant adverse impact to traditional and customary Hawaiian Rights.In view of the Hawaii State Supreme Court's"PASH" and "Ka Pa`akai O Ka`Aina" decisions, the issue relative to native Hawaiian gathering and fishing rights must be addressed in terms of the cultural, historical, and natural resources and the associated traditional and customary practices of the site. Investigation of valued resources: Nor formal archaeological or botanical studies were included in the application. The valued cultural, historical, and natural resources found in the special permit area: As the subject parcel was completely cleared and graded after the applicant purchased the property in 2017, it is unlikely that any valued historical resources exist. Furthermore, no known archaeological sites,historical, or cultural resources are located on the property. -8-