2025-02-18 Jackson M. Bauer Testimony

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d) Natural or native vegetation attractive to a particular area. e) Landscapes that are harmoniously developed, enhanced by man while maintaining their natural appearance, e.g. Pu'ukohola, 'Akaka Falls. f) Lands with a general slope of 20 percent or more that provide open space amenities or possess unusual scenic qualities. [Rationale: Based on the Standards from General Plan 7.4 (a-e) and 8.4 (c).] 448. Visual impact assessments shall include photo simulations or balloon tests with views from various vantage points to show visual impact of a proposed project. [Rationale: Creating visual modeling through photo simulations or balloon tests are common strategies used in visual impact assessments in other municipalities. These visual impact assessment tools would help achieve General Plan 7.2 Goals and policies 7.3 (b, e, h, i).] 449. Prioritize maintaining the views at scenic overlooks with a frequently maintained vegetation management program which includes eradication of invasive species. Coordinate this work with regular roadway vegetation management maintenance program. [Rationale: Based on identified challenges with vegetative management of existing scenic overlook and the prevalence of the views being obstructed by invasive species or other vegetation. See also Hamakua CDP 38, Kokua Action 9, and General Plan 7.2 (b), 7.3 (a, b, c, f).] 450. Maintain a continuing program to identify and inventory exceptional trees, forest areas, or groves/stands of trees. [Rationale: Based on Standards from General Plan 7.3 (g) and policies 7.4 (a-e) 8.3 (j, k, m.] 451. Maintain the Exceptional Tree Program for the recognition and protection of trees with significant or unique historical, ecological, cultural and/or aesthetic significance. [Rationale: Based on General Plan policy 7.3 (g).] 452. No variance shall be granted unless appropriate conditions are imposed to minimize adverse impacts on public views to, from, and along the shoreline. [Rationale: Based on Hamakua CDP Policy 17, General Plan goals 7.2 (a-c), and policies 7.3 (b), 8.3 (c, d). See also HRS 205A. 453. Do not allow incompatible development in areas of natural beauty that have been identified through the Scenic Resources Protection Program.