2024-11-04 Christopher Barham Testimony - GP 2045

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commercial, industrial and other purposes which shall be consistent with proper conservation of natural resources without violating personal rights and freedoms, and supporting local communities to prosper, and the preservation of our natural beauty and historical sites, while still giving access to the public; the most desirable density of population in the several parts of the county (Remove) (b) The council shall enact zoning, subdivision, and such other ordinances which shall contain the necessary provisions to support thriving communities, farmers and homeowners. The way it is currently written describes zoning people out of their homes with more regulations and fines. Page 29: (d) Amendments to the general plan may be initiated by the council or the planning director giving adequate notice to the public for needed testimony. Page 32: CONCERN WITH THE THREE CIRCLE “SUSTAINABILITY” DIAGRAM: The words: Sustainability and Equity are part of a political woke vocabulary and should not be in the Hawaii General Plan. Also, “Social and Culture Equity” should be removed. It is not the responsibility of the planning department to control the behavior of people. That again is a “woke” agenda. Nor does this language reflect a thriving community. “Environmental Protection” gives the impression of more regulations and a reduction of people’s rights. Please remove it. Instead call it: INNOVATION with these 3 circles: Economic Alternatives, Environmental Support, Thriving Communities The goal of the planning department should be to create an environment of prosperity and not one of over regulation and constraints on locals. We can do those through new innovations and 1.4 Innovation Principles and Practices CONCERN: Big Island needs to move toward free energy, which is available and not more regulations on what we have. Change: Integrating innovation into the General Plan is crucial for fostering long-term resilience and thriving communities. Change: “This includes increasing the effectiveness of new technologies to support local communities, improving coordination among various agencies and levels of government, and finding new and innovative ways to support our natural and cultural resources. for better development that supports a thriving environment, economic alternatives (sharing without taxes, trading without regulation), and flourishing communities. The General Plan recognizes this need and aligns with the Hawaii 2050 Sustainability Plan1, which sets a strategic framework for achieving a sustainable future. By embedding sustainability principles into its core, this Plan sets forth a cohesive and forward- thinking strategy that addresses key challenges and anticipates future needs.” Please remove what is highlighted! not sustainability.Sustainability moves Big Island backwards not forward! CONCERN: By using the word “Sustainable” you are not supporting Hawaii to move forward. You are creating more control of the environment, and communities. That is not Pono and violates the HS \[§5-7.5\] "Aloha Spirit": "Aloha" means mutual regard and affection and extends warmth in caring with no obligation in return. If the