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unfavorable recommendation. There's a public perception that proper procedures weren't <br /> followed in this matter. <br /> A clear example of spot zoning and urban sprawl <br /> This proposed speculation project is a clear example of spot zoning and urban sprawl by <br /> rezoning this prime parcel of agricultural land that is surrounded by other adjacent <br /> residential and agricultural properties. The proposed commercial development is <br /> excessively huge with a 3-building, 2-story complex and is NOT compatible with this part of <br /> Waimea. Directly adjacent to said property on the west are the historic Parker Ranch <br /> employees homes and on the east are the historic home of the Kawano family. Directly <br /> across the street are newer residential homes. <br /> The scale and size of this proposed commercial development is too large, similar to a `strip <br /> mall' and NOT compatible for this area. Likewise, it would degrade the "rural, ranching <br /> character" of Waimea.Also,there aren't any two-story commercial structures in this area. <br /> Most of the commercial properties in this part of Waimea are one-story historic buildings <br /> (ie. The Fish &The Hog and other tenants - former Fukushima Store, Earl's and other <br /> tenants). Furthermore,the applicant has NOT demonstrated a need for additional <br /> commercial and retail space for Waimea as there are a number of existing vacant retail <br /> properties in Waimea. <br /> In addition,the applicant is requesting a rezoning from A-5a to RS-0.5 that according to the <br /> Planning Director,the proposed "Rural SLU classification is rare on Hawaii Island."This <br /> is another example of spot zoning and urban sprawl on prime ag land as this type of RS <br /> zoning doesn't presently exist on the south-side of the highway in the area where the <br /> property is situated. Since this is a speculation project,these parcels would NOT be in the <br /> affordable price range for local residents to purchase. <br /> NOT in compliance with the Hawaii County General Plan (2005) <br /> This proposed project fails to protect significant Agriculture lands by rezoning them and <br /> fails to preserve the rural, ranching character of Waimea as stipulated in the General Plan. <br /> 2.4.6.2 South Kohala - Courses ofAction <br /> (a)Assist in the development of agriculture by protecting important agricultural land <br /> from urbanization, providing or having provided the necessary capital improvements, <br /> such as water, and working cooperatively with the agricultural sector and government. <br /> (e) Encourage the preservation of the rural, ranching character within the town of <br /> Waimea. <br /> 2 <br />