2024-10-29 Email Niel Jayasinghe Response (PL-SMA-2024-000060)

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emergency preparedness and response plan can be prepared for the proposed development if required. There are no known hazards on site relating to stream flooding, erosion, subsidence, or pollution. The proposed development is consistent with the County General Plan, Hilo Community Development Plan (HCDP), Zoning Code and other applicable ordinances. The General Plan Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide (LUPAG)for the County of Hawaii is a policy document expressing the broad goals and policies for the long-range development of the Island of Hawai’i. The plan was adopted by ordinance in 1989 and revised in 2005. The proposed development is consistent with the General Plan LUPAG Map designation of Resort(res) which includes Resort developments that are intended to satisfy the needs and desires of both visitors and residents. Such areas have basic amenities and attributes that support visitor accommodations and related facilities. The proposed apartment building will meet a critical need for affordable workforce housing in Hilo. The site is located proximate to similar existing uses and essential services; therefore, the project will also add increased economic potential to surrounding businesses. The request will have a positive impact on long-term economic opportunities including landscaping, building maintenance, and property management services for the rental units. Furthermore, this development will meet the economic needs of the community and improve quality of life, while keeping in balance with the physical, social, and cultural environments of the island. The project site is located within an area adequately served with essential services such as water, electricity, and telephone. A connection to county sewer will provide wastewater service. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate map (FIRM) identifies the parcel as Flood Zone VE, which is within the 100-year coastal flood range, or 1% chance of occurring in any given year, with velocity hazard (wave action). The proposed development will meet the standards of this flood zone, which require the first floors to be elevated above the base flood elevation of 11 feet. Flood proofing will be used for any structures or uses below this elevation. -5-