HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-12-04 Mariana Kovalev GP Testimony From: Marianna Kovalev
To: WPCtestimonv
Subject: General Plan concerns.
Date: Wednesday,December 4,2024 9:48:10 AM
Attachments: Big Island General Plan 2045 Testimony.pdf
httVS://www.standtogetherhawaii.com/_files/ugd/86fc0c b34739e4c99c461685de4c0207bf286e.12df
Sent from my Whone
Legend:
• Black: Directly out of General Plan
• Red: Edit
• Yellow Highlighted is requesting text to be Removed
• Pink Highlighted is a Concern/Comments
Page: 27
Implementation Strategies
"Zoning & Land Use Regulations
Update regulations to align with the goals of the General Plan."
Please change to: "Update regulations" to "align with the goals of local Communities and the
General Plan."
"Public-Private Partnerships Collaborate with private entities and homeowners to achieve
mutual development and conservation objectives."
CONCERN: The word "Homeowner" is not written anywhere in the entire plan. That is VERY
concerning. Why are you leaving homeowners out of the general plan that will affect them and
their future generations? Please include "homeowner' wherever"stakeholder" is and where
suggested in this document. Also, please be clear about who these private entities are that you
want to collaborate with so this is more transparent.
"Community Engagement Continuously engage residents and stakeholders in the decision-
making process."
CONCERN: The community deserves to know who "Stakeholders" are and EXACTLY what they
have stake in. Please define.
Page: 28
1.1 The purposes of the General Plan are to:
• Provide the framework for regulatory
decisions, capital improvement priorities, acquisition strategies, and other pertinent
government programs within the County organization and coordinated with State and
Federal programs.
This sounds like you want to take people's property through acquisition and regulate the heck
out of locals.
Please change to the following: Provide framework that supports local farmers and
communities without further regulations, capital improvement priorities, and other pertinent local
and government programs within the County organization and coordinate with State and
Federal programs to support thriving communities.
• "Promote and safeguard the public interest and the interest of the County as a whole."
Please change to the following: ""Promote and safeguard the public interest and the interest
of the County as a whole without violating personal freedoms, the Constitution or further
regulating the public."
• "Effect political and technical coordination in community improvement and development."
CONCERN: This sounds like you will bring politics into community living. That is not pono.
Please change to: "Effect strategies that support community improvements and development
for locals."
"The 2045 General Plan is the primary policy document for county agencies, planning
commissions, elected officials, landowners, developers, and citizens to guide land use policy
decisions for the Island of Hawai`i."
Please change to: The 2045 General Plan is the primary policy document for county agencies,
planning commissions, elected officials, landowners, homeowners, developers, and locals to
guide land use policy decisions for the Island of Hawaii.
Please add: (a) The general plan shall contain a statement of development objectives,
standards and principles with respect to the most desirable use of land within the county for
residential, recreational, agricultural, 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.
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(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
not sustainability. Sustainability moves Big Island backwards not forward!
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 Plan,, 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!
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 planning department creates
a general plan that adds more regulations and constraints on locals, they violate the
Aloha Spirit law.
The Hawaii 2050 Innovation Plan "created the State's first definition of sustainability" (remove):
A Hawaii that achieves the following:
1. Respects the culture, character, beauty, and history of our state's island communities;
2. Support a thriving community both socially and economically as we support our
environment to heal and prosper; and
3. Meets the needs of the present without violating freedoms or compromising the ability of
future generations to meet their own needs.
Page 33:
In the diagram:
"Regulatory Measures"
• County Code
• Administrative Rules
• Permits
This shows that this general plan will increase restrictions and fees on farmers and other locals.
This is not Pono. The plan should reflect innovation not constraints against the population.
Please change to
CHANGE TO:
"Innovation Practices"
• Implement new resources
• Administration support
• Economic Alternatives
Remove "permits". Stop trying to permit the population to death!
CURRENTLY: The Plan also incorporates guidelines to serve as strategic directions and
standards to inform decisions regarding topics such as land use, infrastructure, housing, and
resource management. These guidelines help to ensure consistency in planning and
implementation, promoting sustainable growth, environmental stewardship, and community
well-being. (This is a complete overreach of the government. You cannot tell people what to do
with their property! It is NOT the responsibility of the planning department to ensure people's
well-being! This should be revised to support environment, innovations, and thriving
communities.)
• Vision: The ability to plan for the future with creativity and innovation in support of thriving
communities.
• Goal: To see Hawaii Island become self-sustaining as communities and the environment
prosper
• Objective: Measurable, achievable, and time-bound milestones toward achieving a goal.
• Guideline: A stated course of action that shall take precedence when addressing areas of
concern and should be followed, unless a determination is made that it is not the most desirable
in a particular case; thus, a guideline may be deviated from without penalty or sanction as long2
as it supports thriving communities, economic alternatives and supporting the environment.
Page 34
Regulatory Implementing Actions (Locals DO NOT need more regulations and
hoops to jump through. That will not support thriving communities.)
Regulatory implementing actions are one of two types of approaches used in the General Plan
to pursue the vision, goals, and objectives. Regulatory actions are controlling in that they define
boundaries, development parameters, and measures intended to implement goals or objectives.
The three regulatory implementing actions in the Plan include:
Please change the last paragraph to:
Work with local communities to pursue the vision, goals, and objectives. Find fair and supportive
directions to define boundaries, development parameters, and measures intended to implement
goals or objectives. Three actions in the Plan include:
• General Plan Land Use Map: A map that graphically delineates the areas of intended
future land use types that support thriving communities and environmental support and
do not hinder personal freedoms.
• Policy: A general rule for action focused on a specific issue, derived from more general
goals3that also support thriving communities and supporting the environment.
• Standard: A supportive measure that defines the meaning, quality, or quantity of a
policy by providing a way to measure its attainment.
In the General Plan, future land use maps, policies, and standards are specific to the actions
through which zoning ordinances, subdivisions, and public improvements or projects are
initiated or adopted through innovations and are flexible to support thriving communities.
"because, as they must conform to and implement the general plan in accordance with the
County Charter, Section 3-15." Remove! The word "conform" is concerning. We are not in
Communist China. Please revise to support thriving communities.
Non-regulatory implementing actions typically involve community engagement, education and
outreach, partnership development, and resource allocation to encourage support from the
community (remove "compliance") and proactive efforts. This approach allows for flexibility
and innovation in achieving the Plan's vision.
Throughout the General Plan, the objectives and policies are followed by a set of implementing
actions. There are three types:
Add: Community Support: Taking testimony and revisions from the community seriously and
implementing where possible.
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1 . 6 Grounded Vision and Goals
As we navigate our future, maintaining a balance between economic alternatives, environmental
support, and thriving communities is paramount.
By integrating those established values and principles, the General Plan ensures continuity and
reflects the collective vision of Hawaii Island residents, guiding new innovation developments
while honoring our unique cultural and environmental heritage.
The four primary chapters of the Plan encompass the innovation pillars of environment,
community, and economy, as outlined in the Hawaii State Planning Act Goals.
General Plan Vision Statement
Hawaii Island is an exemplary leader with healthy and resilient communities that are built by
innovative developments, a thriving and diversified local economy, and collaborative biocultural
stewardship with locals.
Goal
General Plan Chapter
Collaborative Biocultural Stewardship Natural and cultural resources are thriving
and sustainably managed, preserved, and
restored to maintain our unique and diverse
environment and use innovative techniques if
and when appropriate to support future
growth.
Addressing Climate Change for Ensure the science is followed and
Island-Wide Health investigate credentialed scientists and the
Milankovitch cycles of which both have
CONCERN: Please realize there is no shown the earth is cooling. Since humans
climate change emergency. 1944 have less than 1% impact on climate, start
supporting ways that we can maintain a
credentialed scientists from around the healthy island by incorporating policies,
world have signed a "No Climate Change programs, infrastructure, and
decision-making that support the environment
Emergency Declaration". You can find it and thriving communities. And NOT policies
here: that take away more freedoms and regulate
locals to death!
https:Hcli ntel.ora/world-climate-declaration/
Humans have less than 1% affect on climate. Hawaii Island will not believe in false
narratives with political agendas.
Please do your own research on this.
Innovative Development & Thriving We strategically apply innovative land use
Communities strategies incorporating indigenous and
contemporary knowledge and place-based
practices to direct and manage growth for
thriving communities.
It is NOT the responsibility of the planning
department to manage the health and safety Each community is connected by a
of communities. That is an overreach of the multimodal and modernized transportation
government! network that provides a system for safe,
efficient, and comfortable movement of
people and goods.
Our communities are adequately served by
innovation and efficient public infrastructure,
utilities, and services based on existing and
future growth needs, sound design principles,
and effective maintenance practices.
Our communities are thriving and supported
and have access to integrative health,
education, and social services to support a
high quality of life for all residents.
Residents have access to adequate (change
to: comfortable) and affordable housing to
meet the needs of the population and provide
equitable (remove) opportunities for
household flexibility and mobility.
We employ integrated systems that are
efficient, equitable (remove), fair, and
organized to facilitate coordination and
collaboration.
Thriving, Diversified, Competitive with Our economy is competitive, innovative, and
Economic Alternatives supportive. It helps our communities thrive
and increases local economic opportunities.
Agriculture is a robust sector that supports
local farmers and includes a broad range of
agricultural-based businesses that highlight
value, organic and good health practices.
A high quality of life for locals is maintained
when a supportive visitor industry balances
economic growth with natural and cultural
responsibility.
Page: 38
2 . 1 Introduction
Collaborative biocultural (remove) stewardship is an approach to innovation development that
emphasizes collaboration and partnership building among stakeholders (Who are they and what
do they have stake in?), and homeowners and integrates natural and cultural resource
management strategies to promote thriving communities. conservation, sustainability, and
resilience (remove).
Cooperative efforts aimed at achieving innovative development sustainable management
(remove) of ecological systems are crucial for protecting our natural and built environments.
Land use planning and management should be holistic, inclusive (remove), and adaptive to
reflect thriving communities values, knowledge, and aspirations (remove). The General Plan
provides key strategies to achieve biocultural (remove) supportive stewardship, including
community engagement, partnership building, collaborative decision-making, and collective
action.
Environmental and social systems are complex and dynamic. These systems will require
adaptive management and continuous learning as we navigate the future. The policies
presented in this section seek to foster partnerships that are based on mutual respect, trust, and
shared values. The community engagement process must be inclusive to incorporate diverse
perspectives and knowledge systems into conservation and development strategies. Following
such practices can promote the co-creation of knowledge, the sharing of resources, and the
empowerment of communities. By leveraging the strengths and resources of different
stakeholders REMOVE (Who are they and what do they have stake in?), and homeowners we
can enhance the capacity of communities to manage natural and cultural resources sustainably
(remove). We can also facilitate the creation of new networks and alliances, promoting social
cohesion and resilience. Ultimately, the collaborative biocultural stewardship approach can
foster a more integrated, inclusive, and equitable approach to conservation and development
that reflects the aspirations and needs of local communities. (REMOVE THIS IS LANGUAGE IT
IS DESIGNED TO REDUCE FREEDOMS INCREASE GOVERNMENT AND STAKEHOLDER
OVERREACH AND BRING IN MORE GOVERNMENT CONTROL)
CHANGE TO: We can also facilitate the creation of new innovative programs that support and
reflect the aspirations of thriving local communities.
This fundamental element of the Plan strives to cultivate a sense of place and connection to the
environment and recognizes that the management of natural and cultural resources requires the
participation of local communities, government, homeowners and other agencies diverse
actors, including communities, governments, non-governmental organizations, and private
sector entities. By promoting collaborative decision-making and collective action, we can
enhance the effectiveness, equity, and legitimacy of conservation and development and
innovative policies. By promoting community-based conservation and restoration strategies, we
can enhance ecological integrity, promote biodiversity, and preserve cultural heritage and scenic
landscapes.(Redundant Remove) Biocultural stewardship acknowledges the role of cultural
diversity in shaping environmental perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors (Remove. People do
not want to be manipulated). [It recognizes that cultural practices arising from traditional
ecological knowledge are integral to maintaining ecosystem services and biological diversity.]
(remove)
Change to: Cultural practices arising from traditional ecological knowledge are integral to
supporting the growth of thriving communities that wish to improve their environment.
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Table 1 : Biocultural (change to Land) Stewardship Challenges
The word "Bioculture" is reflective of both biological and cultural factors that affect human
behavior. Locals do not want the planning department to affect our behavior. Your job is to
support the land, environment, and thriving communities.
Native Habitat
• Hawai`i has been known as the extinction capital of the world.
• Climate change and sea level rise pose threats to existing habitats for native flora and fauna.
REMOVE (Again, according to 1944 credential scientists from around the world, there is no
climate danger. This is a narrative created by the "stakeholders" to move their agenda forward.
htti)s:Hclintel.ora/world-climate-declaration/) Has the water level risen in any of the towns in
Hawaii?
• Longer and/or more severe weather and climate change may increase the likelihood of
wildfires. REMOVE (The Maui fire was NOT normal. A fire where trees do not burn but glass is
melted out of cars, where animals and humans are left recognizable, and where plastic doesn't
burn or even melt is not normal. That was an attack and murder of our Lahaina ohana. That is
why only 20 building permits have been issued after a year! AND why Lahahina is STILL locked
down!)
• Invasive species continue to pose a threat to native and endemic species as well economic,
environmental, and human health. (Reminder: It is not the responsibility of the planning
department to protect people's health.)
• The carrying capacity of our resources is not comprehensively modeled and monitored.
(Modeled and monitored should be for government agencies.)
• The County lacks specific regulations for wetlands, riparian ecosystems, or other valuable
habitats.
Stewardship
• The County has a limited budget for its large-scale geographic responsibility for the protection
of public trust natural and cultural resources. (Revise. This doesn't make sense. What are you
trying to say? What responsibility are you talking about? What does the protection of public trust
mean?)
• Hawai`i Island has a large variation of unique biomes and ecosystems.
• The difference between traditional and modern practices along with varying mauka to makai
ownership makes it difficult to comprehensively steward natural resources.
Page 40
Native Habitat
The County can collaborate with the State Office of Planning and Sustainable Development to
create models for monitoring the carrying capacity of natural resources that will support farmers
and thriving communities.
• Ongoing conservation work can continue to evolve from species-specific conservation (e.g.,
Albizia eradication) to focus on ecosystem restoration across multiple land ownership to protect
Hawai`i's biodiversity and support local farms.
• Maintaining healthy, native-dominant forests offers immense savings of land biocultural
(Remove) and water resources that might otherwise be lost to the impacts of climate change
(Remove) and invasive species.
• Conservation lands hold significant value in the water resources they represent.
• Incentivizing and developing regenerative land uses without further regulations or fines, such
as agroforestry, can provide sustainable opportunities to ecosystems and communities.
• Hawai`i can become a statewide adaptation and resiliency leader by focusing on its unique
strengths and diversity to evolve with changing realities.
• Urban forestry can be prioritized or incentivized in the County Code. This means more
regulations and possible fines. No thank you! Change to: Support the further growth of current
urban forestry
Watersheds
• Establish more place-based watershed partnerships to create unique management plans
that incorporate the generational knowledge of those water systems and protect our
island's watersheds and local farms.
• Strengthen the integration of Hawaiian biocultural remove resource management and
traditional ecological knowledge across County government to support local farms.
• Practice an integrated approach to ecosystem-based collaborative management that considers
the entire ecosystem and local communities.
• Watershed protection and management require collaboration and coordination across all levels
of government and must include effective community engagement. Revise to: Support
Watershed and management coordination which integrates local communities.
Stewardship
• Hawai`i Island has a large variation of its unique natural biomes and ecosystems.
• Ongoing interagency coordination, including consultation with place-based land
stewards,cultural and historical advisory groups, land and homeowners, and other
stakeholders being transparent of what they hold stake in.
• The County can take a more proactive role in exercising its protective public trust role for
natural and cultural resources. This sounds like government overreach. Again, the planning
department is NOT responsible for protecting the public. That is a byproduct of what you do but
it is NOT the main part of your job! Revise to: The County can take a more proactive role in
supporting thriving communities and their natural and cultural resources.
• Maintain and increase involvement with existing partnerships and identify new partners that
help promote and enhance biocultural (remove) Land stewardship.
• Collaborate to complete additional EPA-approved watershed plans to increase eligibility for
future conservation funding.
Page 41
2 . 2 Biocultural Stewardship Goal ,
Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Objective 1
Increase the biodiversity and resilience of native habitats.
Policies
1.4 Maintain the shoreline for recreational, cultural, educational, and/or scientific uses in a
manner that is protective of nature, respectful of resources, and is of the maximum benefit to the
general public.
1.8 Prioritize native landscaping for all County projects while allowing communities to enjoy it at
their leisure.
1.11 Encourage and incentivize green belts, tree plantings, and landscape plans and designs in
urban areas without further regulations or fines.
1.13 Incentivize private land management practices that protect and enhance natural resource
and values without further regulations or fines. and, when appropriate, pursue the acquisition of
lands for the protection of natural resources (Remove! This is a 110% overreach of the
government.)
1.14 Partner with government, private and nonprofit agencies, communities, farmers,
homeowners, and other stakeholders (What do they have a stake in? Who are they?) to:
Page 42:
a) Implement the Hawaii State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) (What is this plan? Where
can it be found?)
b) Better understand and model carrying capacities of the island's habitats and
resources
c) Improve the inventory of forested lands and associated ecosystem services
d) Encourage the continued identification and inclusion of unique wildlife habitat areas
of Native Hawaiian habitat within the Natural Area Reserve System
e) Anticipate future habitat migration, especially wetlands and coastal ecosystems
f) Prioritize quantitative wetland assessment to identify wetlands
g) Expand native and/or endemic forest cover
h) Improve enforcement for illegal activities that harm or degrade endemic habitats
(Who is defining endemic habitats and how is it defined? I MUST be defined by Hawaii
citizen commission and not anyone outside Hawaii. Mainland people should NOT be
able to define this.)
1.18 Public landscaping and irrigation shall be designed to maximize water use
efficiency and native plants.
Actions
1.b Review tree survey requirements and amend the Code to incorporate as part of site
planning for public use.
1.h Develop buffer policies to protect native forests, wildlife, rivers, streams, coastal
waters, and other native habitats without. This is too vague. What policies are you
considering and will that come with penalties? If so, remove this.
Page 43
1.i Create incentives for landowners to retain and re-establish forest cover in upland
watershed areas with an emphasis on native forest species without further regulations or
1.k Amend the landscape standards in Rule or Code (Remove) to require the use of
native plants for screening or landscaping.
Change to: Support local education on the importance of using native plants for
screening or landscaping.
1.1 Amend the Code to incentivize (Remove) Replace with Support local education on
the importance of the establishment of threatened and endangered endemic plant
species within their habitable ranges during development approvals.
1.m Review the Code and consider amendments to encourage site clustering of
development in order to avoid critical environmental areas and assets. REMOVE
This is more unneeded regulations. This is BIG Island. People do not need to be ontop
of each other. You're promoting too many regulations.
1.n Develop and establish Open Space Network Overlay on current unoccupied territory
for natural landscape features, such as beaches and dunes, forests, streams,
floodplains, wetlands, estuaries, or recharge areas that have the inherent capacity to
avoid, minimize, or mitigate the impacts of climate change (Remove)
1.q Develop comprehensive programs and policies and provide resources for enhancing
urban forestry canopy cover in unoccupied areas and without further regulations or fines
for local farmers
1.0 Partner with government, private and nonprofit agencies, communities, and other
stakeholders and local farmers to develop a program for the identification and protection
of plant species of special status, including plants significant for cultural practitioners.
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2.7 Partner with government, private and nonprofit agencies, communities, farmers, and
homeowners, and other stakeholders (Remove. Who are these people and what do they
have stake in?) to:
o a) Implement a comprehensive conservation plan that identifies priority
watershed areas for habitat restoration and enhancement without further
regulations or fines on locals.
o b) Review and designate forest, river corridors, and watershed areas into the
conservation district during State land use boundary comprehensive reviews.
o c) Monitor nearshore water quality and impacts to reefs and marine
environments and address land-based sources of impacts.
o d) Protect and restore wetlands and riparian corridors to ensure more pristine
water quality, decrease erosion, and increase sediment management,
groundwater infiltration, nutrient/pollutant uptake, soil moisture retention,
stormwater abatement, and cultural/community connections without further
regulations or fines on locals..
o e) Develop reasonable standards to improve stream and coastal water quality
monitoring and encourage local communities to develop such projects without
further regulations or fines on locals.
Page 45
Objective 3
Increase direct community restoration and collaborative efforts to conserve and
nourish the island's biocultural resources.
Policies
3.1 Encourage an overall conservation ethic in the use of Hawai`i's resources by
protecting, preserving, and conserving critical and significant natural resources without
further fines and regulation on the population.
Pg 47
Actions
4.b Change from: Reassess Certified Local Government status to ensure the support of
farmers and homeowners and maximize funding opportunities for self-supporting
communities.
4.h Partner with government, private and nonprofit agencies, farmers, homeowners,
other local communities, and other stakeholders (remove or let us know what they have
stake in) to develop design guidelines for designated communities containing significant
historic buildings, sites, or landscapes.
4.i Assess and prioritize County-owned lands for historic site restoration in collaboration
with government, private and nonprofit agencies, farmers, homeowners, other local
communities, and other stakeholders (remove or let us know what they have stake in).
Page 48
Objective 5
Protect, restore, and enhance our communities' unique scenic character.
Policies
5.c Develop a process for reviewing and revising guidelines for designating Natural
Beauty Sites without invasion of current resident areas or local farms.
5.d Establish a Scenic Resources Protection Program to identify, inventory, and protect
areas of significant beauty. The program could include recommendations from the
Scenic Resources Inventory and Mapping Project (2016) without invasion of current
resident areas or local farms.
Page 56
3 . 1 Introduction
The climate change section of the General Plan is intended to be used as a policy guide for the
coordinated climate mitigation and adaptation efforts on Hawaii Island. This element provides a
high-level policy framework, building on the scientific knowledge and government-level
strategies and actions developed in the Integrated Action Plan (ICAP) for the island of Hawaii.
This is VERY Concerning!
As stated earlier the World Climate Declaration was signed currently by 1,944 scientists
stating there is no climate danger. Here is what a few more scientists have to say. On the
Boston Globe's YouTube channel, on May 14, 2010, MIT Professor of Meteorology Richard
Lindzen shared the following:
"If one asks, "Is the temperature increasing or decreasing?"it's always doing one
or the other. I have no concern about that. By asking people to worry about
whether it's going up or down, you're immediately establishing dishonesty. The
Earth is always changing. Climate change is nothing you have to prove. It always
is happening. It always has happened. So, to make that into something alarming
seems a little bit weird to me'."
"Global warming:why you should not worry,"by the Boston Globe,May 14,2010.
Dr. David Dilley, a former Meteorologist with the National Weather Service, United States
Air Force, Senior Research Meteorologist, and Climatologist at Global Weather Oscillations Inc.,
has 50 years' experience in meteorology and climatology. He's also a working partner in the
International Hurricane Protection Association. This is what he has to say about global warming:
"Global warming begins in the Arctic and Antarctic. It has about a 230-year cycle.
When it comes back, it takes about 20 years for it to hit its peak. It started in the
1990s and hit its peak this past year. With global warming, the Antarctic and
higher regions warm up. As it warms up, you have less cold air available to filter
south into the middle latitudes, and it warms the middle latitudes. That is global
warming2."
Dilley explained that the same thing happens with global cooling but in reverse, as the
temperature increases and decreases in cycles. Dilley then shared that 2022 was the coldest
spring and summer on record, with the winter of 2021 being the coldest winter on record. He
also shared that in April 2023, five months before the Lahaina Fire, the Earth was running
low-to-normal temperatures, and the Arctic was actually cooling down.
Dilley is also an expert of the "Milankovitch Cycle," which illustrates the rotation of the
Earth, sun, and the moon, and their effects on global warming. According to Dilley, every
120,000 years, the Earth comes closest to the sun. Then, about 68,000 years later, it's the
furthest approach from the sun. He says that our closest approach was 8,000 years ago. Dilley
states, "We were warmer 6,000 to 8,000 years ago than we are today. The reason was that we
were the closest approach to the sun and we had just come out of an Ice Age. We're 8,000
years off the peak now, and so we're actually cooling down."
John Coleman, also an expert on the weather, shares the same thoughts. Coleman was
the original weatherman on Good Morning America in the 1970s. He founded The Weather
Channel in the 1980s. In 1982, he was voted "Meteorologist of the Year" by the American
Meteorology Society. With regards to the Arctic and sea levels, Coleman states:
'They tell us that we're melting the polar ice caps. The Antarctic polar ice cap is
at an all-time high, and the Arctic ice cap is increasing again after diminishing.
They tell us that we're flooding the shorelines. Do you live on the coast? How
much has the water come up in your lifetime? They manufactured data to make it
look like we're increasing the water level of the oceans, but we're not'."
Professor Richard Lindzen states:
https://voutu.be/pwvVephTIHU?si=XoxAcPc51 JNIOXdeF:
z "Signals - Global Cooling Cycle Beginning - Global Warming Ending-Professor David Dilley,"by David Dilley
GlobalWeatherCycles,May 10,2023. _
"'John Coleman's case against significant man-made global warming,"by Kusi News,June 24,2013.
https://voutu.be/K56fins2VZTc'?si=Cn-ApS8z2Y k1176
"At any given place, traditionally, sea level is measured by what are called tide
gauges: a stick in the water, basically. Two things that change are what a tide
gauge shows: the land moving up and down and the sea moving up and down. In
most places, it's the land that has the biggest effect, and so you don't have a
good measure of sea level rise141 "
Let's review the danger of water rising and engulfing coastline towns. Is there one city or
town on the shoreline that is in danger of being underwater? Is Venice, a town that lives at sea
level, in danger of being lost to the sea? Have home insurance companies stopped giving
insurance policies to homeowners who live on the coastline because they'll soon be
underwater? The answer would be no!
On August 21, 2020, NASA published an article titled "NASA-led Study Reveals the Causes of
Sea Level Rise Since 1900." It reads:
"Sea levels have risen on average 1.6 millimeters (0.063 inches) per year
between 1900 and 20184."
That means the sea level has risen a little over 7.4 inches in the last 118 years! Does that show
the world is in danger of being engulfed by water? No. It shows that it will be a very, very, very
long time before humans are in danger. Does that mean documentaries like "An Inconvenient
Truth" are telling lies?
An article was published in the Seattle Times on October 12, 2007, titled "British judge ruled the
Oscar-winning film on global warming, "An Inconvenient Truth," contains "nine errors5.'"
Here is the list of inaccuracies found in Court taken from the "Friends Of Science" website6.
The inaccuracies in the documentary include:
1. The film claims that melting snow s on Mount Kilimanjaro evidence global warming. The
Government's expert was forced to concede that this is not correct.
2. The film suggests that evidence from ice cores proves that rising CO2 levels cause
temperature increases over 650,000 years. The Court found that the film was misleading: over
that period, the rises in CO2 lagged behind the temperature rises by 800-2,000 years.
4"NASA-led Study Reveals the Causes of Sea Level Rise Since 1900,"by Ian J. O'Neill/ Jane J.Lee,August 21,
2020. https:Hclimate.nasa.gov/news/3012/nasa-led-study-reveals-the-causes-of-sea-level-rise-since-1900/
"'Truth is, Gore film has 9 errors,British judge rules,"by Mary Jordan,Oct 12,2007.
https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/truth-is-gore-film-has-9-errors-british-judge-rules/
6"Inaccuracies in Al Gore's An Inconvenient Truth-A Ruling of the British High Courf'
https:Hfriendsofscience.or�--/assets/documents/FOS°/`2OEssavBritish High Court Ruling on An Inconvenient Tru
ht .html
3. The film uses emotive images of Hurricane Katrina and suggests that this has been caused
by global warming. The Government's expert had to accept that it was "not possible" to attribute
one-off events to global warming.
4. The film shows the drying up of Lake Chad and claims that this was caused by global
warming. The Government's expert had to accept that this was not the case.
5. The film claims that a study showed that polar bears had drowned due to disappearing arctic
ice. It turned out that Mr. Gore had misread the study: in fact, four polar bears drowned, and this
was because of a particularly violent storm.
6. The film threatens that global warming could stop the Gulf Stream, throwing Europe into an
ice age. The Claimant's evidence was that this was a scientific impossibility.
7. The film blames global warming for species losses, including coral reef bleaching. The
Government could not find any evidence to support this claim.
8. The film suggests that sea levels could rise by 7 meters, causing the displacement of millions
of people. In fact, the evidence is that sea levels are expected to rise by about 40 centimeters
over the next 100 years and there is no such threat of massive migration.
9. The film claims that rising sea levels has caused the evacuation of certain Pacific islands to
New Zealand. The Government was unable to substantiate this, and the Court observed that
this appears to be a false claim.
Also, the Court's interim ruling included the following:
1. The film suggests that the Greenland ice covering could melt, causing sea levels to rise
dangerously. The evidence is that Greenland will not melt for a millennia.
2. The film suggests that the Antarctic ice covering is melting; the evidence was that it is, in fact,
increasing.
High Court Judge Michael Burton stated:
"Former Vice President Al Gore, the documentary's moderator, makes nine
statements in the film that are not supported by the current mainstream scientific
consensus. For instance, Gore's script implies that Greenland or West Antarctica
might melt soon, creating a sea-level rise of up to 20 feet that would cause
devastation from San Francisco to the Netherlands to Bangladesh's "
The judge called this "distinctly alarmist" and said the consensus view is that if
Greenland melted, it would release this amount of water "but only after, and over, a millennia."
The climate change narrative will destroy people's freedom and add more regulations, fines and
fees. Do not allow this government narrative to continue on the Big Island. The people do NOT
want more laws, regulations, and fines based on a false narrative that completely changes
community infrastructures from self-reliant to "sustainable" living, with "stakeholders" carrying
the purse strings and the power. That is NOT Pono!
Gregg Braden is a geologist, five-time New York Times best-selling author, scientist,
international educator, and renowned as a pioneer in the emerging paradigm based in science,
social policy, and human potential, had this to say about the dangers of carbon on the planet:
"The idea that carbon dioxide is a poison is a false narrative to begin with. We are carbon-based
beings. By demonizing carbon dioxide and carbon life, we're actually demonizing ourselves'."
Science 101 shows us that plants take in carbon dioxide and give off oxygen. If plants
die due to lack of carbon dioxide, so do humans for lack of oxygen. During the Cretaceous
Period, which began 145 million years ago and ended 66 million years ago, we had a lot more
carbon than we do today - tons more! This was the time of the dinosaurs, and everything was
huge! Plants were much larger than they are now.
The sea levels were also a lot higher during the Cretaceous Period. Was that due to
more carbon dioxide? Not according to an article at Britannica.com written by Thor Arthur
Hansen, Professor of Invertebrate Paleontology, Paleoecology, and Evolution at Western
Washington University, U.S., and Carl Fred Koch, Professor of Geological Sciences at Old
Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia. It was fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia
Britannica and last updated on Feb 7, 2024. The article said that sea level was higher primarily
because the water in the ocean basins was displaced by the enlargement of mid-oceanic
ridges$. It Was not due t0 carbon! It was due to the Earth's mantle.
On January 11, 2023, in an episode titled "Why "THE POWERS THAT BE" are So
Desperate to Reduce Carbon Dioxide on OUR Planet?" posted on geologist and scientist Gregg
Braden's YouTube channel, John L. Petersen of the Arlington Institute stated:
"If you could look at the ice cores in Antarctica and Greenland, you would see that the
temperature of the Earth increases or decreases around 800 years before the change in
carbon dioxide. That means carbon dioxide does not drive the change; it is the response to
the temperature changes."
In the same interview, Braden stated:
' "Gregg Braden - Why "THE POWERS THAT BE"are So Desperate to Reduce Carbon Dioxide on OUR Planet?"
by Gregg Braden Official,January 11,2023. https://voutu.be/7vJ-Qefos8A'?si=BviOKcdznXx6t2SQ
8"Cretaceous Period," by Carl Fre Koch,Thor Arthur Hansen,
9 "Why `THE POWERS THAT B9_` arc So Dcsperaic io Reduce Carbon Dioxide on OUR Planet?" by Gregg
Braden,January 11,2023. _ �)x
_,w„ ,,,,
"We're being led to believe that carbon levels of CO2 have never been higher; that the Earth is
going to be destroyed if they are higher; and that CO2 is the driving temperature, both of which
are not true147."
Gregg showed a graph indicating that during the Cretaceous Period, carbon dioxide
levels were over three times higher than they are today. Carbon dioxide levels were between
800-1,000 parts per million. During this period, there was an extreme greening of the Earth.
Plants and life thrived!
According to Braden:
"If CO2 drops below 184 parts per million, that seems to be the threshold where we (humans)
are in trouble/ If CO2 drops below those levels, we are actually cutting off the very life-force that
is providing oxygen on this planet."
Is the entire CO2 narrative intended to increase the bankroll of the "stakeholders" around
the world invested in renewable energy with no regard for human life?
Stakeholders who've invested in progressive and "sustainable energy" have a lot to gain
in their pocketbooks by populations living in fear of climate change and believing they will be
"saving" the Earth by going along with renewable energy and electric vehicles. They'll also be
giving up a lot of their freedoms in doing so.
Page 59
Transportation
The General Plan further discusses strategies for decreasing vehicle reliance and (Remove)
improving public Transportation Access and Mobility. You have no right to hinder people's
right to travel. Please take ANYTHING out that references decreasing people's use of their
vehicle!
The County can reduce its footprint by increasing the percentage of renewable fuel used to
power public facilities and infrastructure, reducing VMT, (REMOVE). YOU CANNOT LIMIT
PEOPLE'S RIGHT TO TRAVEL. THAT VIOLATES THE CONSTITUTION AND IS BEYOND
YOUR JURISDICTION
Page 61
The General Plan expands on opportunities for climate-conscious land development in the Land
Use section without violating people's rights, over regulating or increasing fines.
Page 63
The General Plan further expands on strategies to increase resilience in the Transportation
Access and Mobility, Public Utilities, and Public Facilities and Services sections without
violating the Constitution, or over regulating farmers and homeowners.
The General Plan expands on renewable energy in the Public Utilities section with safety
studies prior to installation, and without increasing costs to the public.
Page 66
Transportation
• Promoting the use of electric vehicles through expanding charging infrastructure and educating
the public on the safety studies done for the use of these vehicles from third parties.
Renewable Energy
• Increasing the use of green technology (including third party safety studies) will increase the
energy independence of individuals and businesses on the island.
• Supporting renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind, ocean thermal energy
conversion (OTEC), and geothermal (Remove. This practice is not safe for an island with active
volcanoes!)
Land Use &the Built Environment
• Implementing smart growth strategies, without violating people's right to travel can reduce
urban sprawl and create more walkable communities.
• Developing a County building code that balances health and safety, affordability, and carbon
footprint (REMOVE! This is more regulations and fines. NOT Pono! It is NOT your responsibility
to focus on people's health. That is for each individual! This is an overreach!
• Encouraging the construction of energy-efficient buildings and retrofitting existing buildings
being sure to prove any additional technology is safe for the public..
• Promoting regenerative agriculture practices that reduce emissions and enhance carbon
sequestration while not further regulating farms or increasing fines.
• Greening urban areas increases the availability of cool areas for residents to live and recreate.
• Integrating energy savings and waste management, without more regulations and fines on the
population, provides an opportunity to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions in new development.
Conservation
• Protecting reefs and marine ecosystems that act as carbon sinks, without hindering public use.
• Implementing a One Water strategy and other water-saving technologies and practices can
reduce the energy required for water treatment and distribution. This is NOT a good idea. If this
goes down, where will people get their water? Remove or revise.
• Conserving natural habitats without hindering public use to preserve biodiversity and enhance
ecosystem resilience to climate change.
• Efforts to expand renewable energy, with third party safety studies and without hindering public
, can consider the preservation of unique and diverse ecosystems, avoiding negative
impacts on wildlife and natural habitats.
Additional Measures
• Improving public engagement about climate change and encouraging sustainable practices.
(Remove and educate yourself on the fact that scientists from around the world have stated
there is no climate danger.)
• Implementing policies and regulations that support climate mitigation efforts, without further
regulations or fines on locals. (Please educate yourself)
• Supporting research into new technologies and approaches for reducing emissions and
enhancing resilience and include third party safety studies while ensuring no further cost to the
public.
Page 67
Water Resources • Management
Promoting a One Water strategy can create cross-agency collaboration to identify and address
overlapping challenges in adapting to sea level rise and building more resiliency into
infrastructure across water, wastewater and stormwater sectors. How does this promote
collaboration? This seems like a monopoly.
Agriculture & • Food Security
Encouraging the cultivation of climate-resilient and diversified crops to enhance food security
without further regulations and fines.
Infrastructure & Urban Planning
Retrofitting or relocating bridges and roads provides an opportunity to reduce GHG emissions
by reducing miles traveled. (REMOVE) THIS VIOLATES THE CONSTITUTION. YOU CANNOT
DEPRIVE PEOPLE OF THE RIGHT TO TRAVEL. ALSO, HOW ARE YOU GOING TO
"RELOCATE" LOCAL BRIDGES. THIS SHOULD BE REMOVED!
• Implement zoning and land use planning policies that consider climate risks and promote
sustainable development after a full investigation of the climate change narrative is
examined. (Do not further regulate and fine people without fully investigating the climate
change narrative and proving that any additional technology is safe for the human life.)
Social Equity
• Engage communities in planning and decision-making processes to ensure that
adaptation measures are socially inclusive (Remove. This is woke language.) and
culturally appropriate.
• Increasing equitable resilience to climate hazards will benefit historically marginalized
and frontline Engage communities (What does this mean?) and those that are vulnerable
to climate change impacts.
Energy & • Transportation
• Invest in renewable energy sources that are proven safe and affordable to the public to
reduce GHG emissions and increase energy resilience.
• Promote energy efficiency in buildings and transportation that are proven safe and
affordable to the public to reduce overall energy consumption and without increasing
regulations or fines
Biodiversity & Ecosystems
• Managed retreat strategies and new shoreline setback regulations would expand open
space along the shoreline to support coastal ecosystems such as anchialine pools
without hindering public access.
• Supporting conservation programs that are proven safe for the people and the
environment can help protect native species and habitats from climate change impacts
without hindering public access and without increasing regulations and fines.
• Strengthening measures to control and eradicate invasive species can help protect local
ecosystems.
• Enhance habitat connectivity to allow species to migrate in response to changing
environmental conditions without hindering public access and without increasing
regulations and fines.
Education & Capacity Building
• Build capacity for local government agencies by providing training and resources that
improve their ability to plan and implement climate adaptation initiatives without
increasing regulations and fines.
• Collaborate and coordinate with the County's Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity,
and Resilience (OSCER). This is woke language and should be removed.
• Support research and monitoring efforts to better understand climate impacts and the
effectiveness of adaptation measures. (Please educate yourself on this false
narrative)
• Develop and implement educational programs to raise awareness about climate change
and adaptation strategies. REMOVE (This is a FALSE narrative that you would be
perpetuating.)
Page 68
3 . 2 Climate Change Goal ,
Objectives, Policies, and Actions
This ENTIRE section should be removed. Rosa Korie WARNED that what is planned for this
country through the planning departments "is an erasure of jurisdictional boundaries. It is a loss of
private property rights, a loss of sovereignty- both personal physical sovereignty and physical
sovereignty in terms of*our nation- and it's a loss of*our freedom."
From Rosa Koire's special presentation to the New Hampshire Legislature.
hops://voutu.be/350IbVtpzvw?si=u NNsNoL9XtGxDEA
Page 71
8.3 Collaborate with farmers, government,private and nonprofit agencies, communities, and
other stakeholders REMOVE Who are they?What do they have stake in?to monitor impacts that
may be specific to Hawaii County due to its unique exposure to climate change and sea level rise
impacts. (Please educate yourself on this false narrative. Is Kona or Hilo or any Hawaiian town
close to being underwater?NO!)
8.11 Partner with government(e.g., State Office of Planning and Sustainable Development
[OPSD]),private and nonprofit agencies, communities, and other stakeholders REMOVE Who
are they'? What do they have stake in'?to analyze conservation buffers to accommodate shifting
native habitats impacted by climate change,particularly wetlands and high-elevation forests.
(Remove this ENTIRE section! We do NOT want"buffer"zones! You want to take away the
ability for people to be in nature. That is NOT pono!)
8.b Support and partner with government,private and nonprofit agencies, communities, and other
stakeholders REMOVE Who are they'?What do they have stake in'? on research for adaptive
policies and technology that includes safety studies to the public and environment,that increase
resilience without further regulations and fines on the public..
8.d Adopt a land acquisition program with potential leaseback options for the purchase of
hazard-prone locations or those with beneficial attributes for climate adaptation and mitigation.
REMOVE. THIS 1S GOVERNMENT OVERREACH! THIS 1S NOT A COMMUNIST
COUNTRY! YOU CANNOT TAKE PEOPLE'S PROPERTY!
8.e Collaborate with government,private and nonprofit agencies, communities, and other
stakeholders REMOVE Who are they'?What do they have stake in'?to implement
environmentally beneficial upgrades for wastewater, irrigation, and/or landscaping, including sea
level rise, storm, and other climate change considerations. (Remove). Getting at least three bids
for contracts from different companies.
Pg 74
- 4.1.1 Introduction
1st para: "achieve sustainable development and" (Remove)
change "resilient" to safe
2nd para: "Sustainable development is a key objective of land use planning for the County. By
strategically" and in the sentence "Land use planning is essential. (Remove) change "resilient"
to safe.
3rd para: - change "resilience" to safety. "and the impacts of climate change" (Remove) Better
prepared for and protected against potential disasters. Change: "sustainable" to diversified.
"desirable" to fair, equitable.
Last para 5th line down: Change: "should" to may
Pg 75
Economic Opportunity Planning: "other growth sectors." Need to be specific, identify other
growth sectors.
Last sentence: "muck like the weave of sustainability," (Remove)
Pg. 76 Table 16: Land Use Key Trends
Changing &Aging Population: "Over the next 25 years .....0.9% per annum" decline in
population already seen and projected needs to addressed as to why the population is in
decline. How you do Planning if you don't address reasons for population decline. This is
crucial.
Housing Affordability & Choice: "In 2010..." down to "However, on average, Hawaii County's
overcrowding....."
Shifting Visitor Accommodation Types: - Change "With the upward trend...." to "rentals." &
"There is also a shift.." Revise that entire sentence.
Job Availability & Growth: - Revise last sentence "In 2020, 14% of the....."
Pg. 77 Table 17: Land Use Challenges
Revise:
Infrastructure section
Regulations section
Funding & Financing entire section
Land Use Compatibility entire section
Public Engagement entire section
- (My note is What is NIMBYism?)
Pg. 78 Table 18: Land Use Opportunities
Infrastructure:: last sentence "County departments can provide....."
Regulations: Red: "Collaborate across State and County agencies to....." (Need more public
input and ideas);
"The most direct role the County plays..,..property tax policy." (Need much more research on
property tax rates, regulations, policies & scrutinized by the public who are affected by
paying property taxes. This should be the most glaring concern so that we do not leave
tax burden for future generations who may lose their properties to taxes paid to the
government).
Funding & Financing: "Partner with the State and other counties to create a capacity building
plan.....stakeholders." (Remove)
Market Conditions: "Seek to acquire land for affordable housing developments...." Add:
without violating people's right to own property or take this out. Revise it. This is government
overreach!
Land Use Compatibility: "Demonstrate smart growth developments." (Remove)
Public Engagement: "Encourage affordable housing projects to meet the needs of
neighborhoods (YIMBY) without further regulations and fines." (What is YIMBY?) and next line
"Apply strategies to...." "stakeholder". Who are these stakeholders? What do they have stake
in?
Pg. 79
4.1.2 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions
Item 9.7 - Red: "Encourage" change to Mandate developers
Item 9.8 - Red: "Route selection for ....." that entire sentence. (This is a high priority revision as
it pertains directly to 5G dangers. Here is where the people/public need to have direct
input/approval/changes.
Item 9.a - Red: "Develop a process for County....." this is crucial for public scrutiny & opportunity
for the public to get transparency. Transparency can only be realized if we, the public include
ourselves into all governmental processes. If not, we will not get transparency, period!
Pg 80 Land Use Goal, Objectives, Policies, and Actions - continued
Item 9.e - "Conduct a review and re-evaluation.... entire sentence to be revised.
Item 10.3 "Proposed discretionary permits for large developments.....Ka'u Districts" -Not clear
needs revision.
Item 10.b "Amend.......allow CPDs to be applied to all zoning districts..." - Why amend the
Zoning Code? We need to compare current Zoning Codes to what they propose to amend to
see if the people or the developers have the advantage. What are CPDs?
Item 10.c- Red: "Collaborate with the State Office of Planning.....Native Hawaiian customary
and traditional.." Need to revise to ensure that Hawaiian cultural experts, NOT the State
government or its agencies have any input for preserving, protecting, educating, safeguarding,
sharing, marketing, ..every aspect of utilizing our native Hawaiian (kanaka maoli) heritage of
language, practices, traditions, religion & more belong exclusively to the kanaka maoli elders,
experts, kupuna, kahuna, healers NEVER the government or its agencies...NEVER!!!
Pg 81 continue
Item 11.4 "Concurrency reviews should incorporate..... (Remove)" entire sentence absolutely
NO!
Actions
11.a - Red: "Collaborate with the SHPD to create..... entire sentence - Need experts.
11.d - Red: "Amend Zoning Code...." do not give the Planning Director more power, it's time to
decrease power for that position, we need to humble these government workers/servants. Now
is that time as history has shown us, when they have power, they want more; when they have
more power, it's not enough &the cycle continues while the people suffer. STOP giving away
the power from the people.
11.f- "Update traffic impact....." (Remove) entire sentence. Travel should not be the Planning
Board's power to take away from me or you, ever.
Objective 12 Reduce the threat to life and property from natural hazards and disasters.
Policies
The above sentence - Red: add "unnatural & natural hazards" - It is important to identify the
reality that unnatural hazards have always existed, therefore, why is that omitted?
12.3 Red: "Consider natural ... Again add in unnatural & force the Planning Board to
address DE disasters, weather machine disasters which are human created disasters, which is
criminal. Why shouldn't the Planning Board include these disasters as they certainly affect the
health & safety of the people & our environment.
12.8 Red: "Encourage the development...." entire sentence. Again, must address DE/Weather
machines/human initiated disasters.
Pg 82 Actions
Item 12.a - Red: "Update the Building Code....." entire sentence need extreme revisions, I
initially wanted to delete, but it is necessary to revise to include unnatural/man made disasters &
address "carbon footprint". These are areas to not hide by deleting, but rather talk about them
through revisions.
Item 12.g - "Amend the Zoning Code...." (Remove) Until they can prove climate change is
happening, delete this section that refers to climate change as that is a false narrative that we
the people/public should not allow to continue. I do not want to tell a lie over& over again until
everyone believes it. That's breaking the 10 commandments.
Pg. 83 4.1.3 Overview of Land Use Designations and Maps
No changes.
Pg. 84 Table 19: General Plan Land Use Designations and Maps
No Changes
Pg. 85 Agriculture and Natural Land Use
No Changes
Pg 86 4.1.4 Urban Growth Areas
2nd para: Red: "Smart Growth" change to something safer, know what it represents not hidden
meanings. Black out: the word "sustainable" and from "More specifically, urban centers have
been designed to create.... Driving." - The government or its agencies should not impede or
alter the rights of citizens to travel it's call our right to travel, which is constitutional.
Pg 87 Objective 13 Increase the use of Smart Growth principles to focus development
within designated urban centers.
Policies Red: change "Smart Growth" to Evaluate and analyze development within designated
urban centers.
Item 13.3 Red: "Incentivize" what is that& how does it benefit the public?
13.6 Red: "may include additional acreages to account for....." must revise section to make it
clearer as to how this inclusion will work to the advantage or disadvantage of historic sites,
public access, parks, & open spaces. More clarity is necessary because saying ok to unclear
"PLANNING" should never be accepted.
Item #13.12 - Red: Revise entire sentence "Urban renewal, rehabilitation...." need to include
people or the public not just communities, businesses, & governmental agencies. Planning
Boards should always include the people/public. This will give people the power to make
decisions, not just testify for 3 minutes at a Planning Commission hearing. That needs to
change. More people/public involvement needs to be promoted. This involvement may be the
inspiration or motivation for people to become active in planning for themselves, their future
generations. It is time for governments & businesses to take a back seat!
Item 13.13 Red: Revise entire sentence. "Support master planning by ....." it's not"Support" it
should be to Scrutinize, evaluate, analyze and recommend by experts and the people.
Pg. 88 Commercial - Industrial
Item 13.28 Red: "Discretionary permit applications.. Entire sentence need revision as it is not
fair to have Discretionary permit applications for new commercial developments. Everyone
follows the rules, no exceptions by the Planning Board.
Resort
Item 13.49 - Red: Revise "On-site affordable housing and workforce units shall be excluded
from the total permitted visitor unit counts....." Again, how does this exclusion help the people,
the visitors, the workforce? How does it affect permitted visitor unit counts?
Pg 90 Actions
13.c Red: revise "Amend the Subdivision Code to ensure block sizes are based...." What are
the current codes &what are the proposed amendments to compare who will have the
advantage or disadvantage of this proposal to Amend Subdivision Code.
Pg. 91 Urban Character Guidelines Table 20: Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)
Character Guidelines
No Changes.
Pg. 92 Table 21: Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) Character Guidelines
No Changes
Pg. 93 Table 22: Urban Neighborhood Center Character Guidelines
No Changes
Pg. 94 Table 23: Industrial Center Character Guidelines
No Changes
Pg. 95 Table 24: Criteria for Industrial Land Conversion to Commercial/Mixed-Use
No Changes
Pg. 96 Table 25: Resort Area Character Guidelines
No Changes
Pg. 97 4.1.5 Rural
No Changes
Pg. 98 Objective 14 Maximize the use of Rural designated lands to preserve rural
character and lifestyle. Policies
All items from 14.1, 14.2, 14.3, 14.4, 14.5, 14.6 - Red: Must revise all items as the Planning
Board is asking for Support of everything they are doing, which contradicts any changes that the
public may be deemed detrimental. Asking for"blind" support is ridiculous.
Actions - Items 14.a, 14.b, 14.c, & 14.d Red: Revise all items as it is asking to Amend Zoning
Code, zoning districts which is crucial to see current codes compared to amendments. How are
these amendments affecting the public to their advantage vs. disadvantages. This is very
important to NOT just accept amendments. Thorough research is necessary to protect the
public.
Pg. 99 Table 26: Rural Neighborhood Character Guidelines
No Changes
Pg. 100 4.1.6 Agriculture
Last para: "The General Plan provides planning tools to incentivize the highest and best use of
productive agricultural lands. The Plan's policies... ... entire paragraph need to be revised. I am
especially concerned with the word "incentivize the highest and best use... here again what
does this mean, how will it be done, who benefits.
Pg. 101 Objective 15 Support the active use of Productive Agricultural lands.
Actions
All items 15.a, 15.b, 15.c. 154 15.e must be revised Not just Amend.
Pg. 102 Actions (continue)
Item 15.f- Revise "Update the Real Property Tax Code....." need public input for transparency.
Item 15.g Revise "Amend the Zoning Code..." again do not just accept Amending
Item 15A Revise "Collaborate with USDA and the State.... It's not just collaborate, it's what are
the decisions based upon, what are the final decisions, how are these decisions helping
farmers. Since, we have passed hundreds of years farming in Hawaii you would think we have
identified major problems, why these problems do not get resolved, who are responsible for the
non-resolutions. This is just repeating ....USDA, the State who have been in charge of
agriculture, I want to see a report card that covers 1950s to 2023. Report cards are
transparency mechanisms to identify who &what are creating our farmer's problems. We cannot
fix anything without transparency. Politicians say it, but absolutely no actions. This section is
entitled ACTION. Let us begin to act.
Pg. 104 4.2.1 Introduction
Third para: "Resilience...." I don't want the word resilience to be an escape mechanism for the
government or its agencies. That word should change.
The last para: "The Plan is focused on improving connectivity within ....." this sounds good, but
I don't see good results as I am pass 70 yrs old. We should not accept "rinse & repeat'. What
did the Planning Board learn from over 100 yrs. Of past failures? They say they focus on
improving, yet we cannot determine how they will improve. Stronger language to ensure that
the public can know they plan to improve.
Pg. 105 Table 27: Transportation Key Trends
No Changes
Pg. 106
Table 28: Transportation Challenges
All items Red: Revisions necessary. It refers to electric cars, Pre-COVID-19 (false narratives
that must be stopped)
Pg. 107
Table 29: Transportation Opportunities
All items Red: Need revisions since they want to establish metrics, improve interagency
collaboration, prepare projects, standardize interagency agreements. It contains a multitude of
changes that are unclear, very ambiguous, & again, transparency is lacking.
Pg. 108
4.2.2 Transportation Goal, Objective, Policies, and Actions
All items Red: Requires revisions. Examples: item 16.2 "Encourage safe and convenient use
...... non-polluting" What is non-polluting to the Planning Board? What do they know about
pollution as they don't know that EMFs are dangerous pollutants. And example: Item 16.10
"Identify and evaluate transportation..... energy and climate issues." We need to stop the false
Pg. 109 Actions - continue
All items - Red: Revisions necessary. Same reasons as above for Pg. 108.
Sorry Michelle - did not complete pages 104 to 118-119. Can do later/Kalei K. completed today,
Monday 9-23-24 at 12:01 pm.
Pg. 110 4.2.3 Active Living Corridors and Public Access
No Changes
Pg. 111 Objective 17 Increase transportation connectivity.
Policies
All items Red: Need revisions. Example: Item 17.1 "Ensure Native Hawaiian access rights are
clearly expressed...." This is an area of talk talk talk & no action. Again, what violations have
already occurred, how long have these violations been going on, have these violations stopped?
Just putting in a sentence in a Plan does not mean it has been adhered to. Therefore, these
proposals are weak. As a native Hawaiian it is imperative to get enforcement for these
violations, identify violations, how long it's been happening, why &who are responsible to stop
violations, protect native Hawaiian access rights. If this item # is weak, which it is - than the
others need revisions.
Pg. 112 Table 30: Public Access Spacing Standards
No Changes
Pg. 4.2.4 Mass Transit
All paragraphs need revisions Red: revisions necessary. Mass Transit has been proven wrong
on Oahu, the Rail. Over budgeted, from hundreds of millions of dollars (budgeted) to billions of
dollars, NOT budgeted. Who is paying for this government error?You, me & our visitors. We
have an historic example from the City & County of Honolulu. The people protested against this
"Rail", but years later a Mayor brought back the Rail & all Mayors thereafter continue with this
project. Please investigate this "Planning" before Hawaii County repeats history. All words in this
section/page are the same words use by the Planning Dept. of the City & County of Honolulu.
Absolutely requires total revisions to 4.2.4 Mass Transit
Pg. 114 Objective 18 Increase mass transit ridership by 50 percent by 2045 Policies
All items are basic objectives. No changes (yet)
Pg. 115 4.2.5 Roadways
2nd to last para: What is the County's Vision Zero Action Plan Pink: Concern
Pg. 116 Objective 19 Reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT)
All items Red: Need revisions Concern - What is reduce vehicle miles traveled? Why reduce
vehicle miles traveled? What is this agenda for&what will it accomplish? Who will benefit?
Again, our right to travel cannot be altered or impeded as that right is protected by the US
Constitution & God.
Pg. 117 Objective 20 Achieve a transportation system that employs all modes of
transportation at a community scale.
All items need to be revised
Pg. 117 continue: Objective 21 Incorporate green infrastructure to reduce stormwater
runoff. Policies
All items Red: Concern See item 21.1 "green infrastructure strategies, and pollution prevention
procedures...." Again, sine the Planning Board does not understand EMF pollution & its
dangerous - what are they talking about here "pollution prevention procedures.."
Pg. 118 continue from above. Actions & Objective 22 Increase transportation safety for
transportation's most vulnerable users and reduce traffic fatalities.Policies
All items Red: revise
Pg. 119 Continue from above.
All items from 22.7 to 22.9 Red: revise Concern.
22.7
autematedvemeles. This appears to be referencing the very unproven technology of`driverless
cars?7 Emerging technology needs to go through rigorous standards of testing before being
released onto roadways. This text here, with a clear reference to something that is already
proving dangerous on the roadways and the subject of lawsuits does not belong in our County
Plan.
22.8 Maintain dedicated roadway standards that are appropriate to roadway type and achieve
active transportation and safety goals.
22.9 Engage and collaborate with the owners of private roads and local community groups to
help identify and develop road management agreements that mitigate road closures to provide
emergency evacuation routes.
Actions
22.a Amend the County Code to incorporate Vision Zero safety principles and Complete Street
design principles. This is too vague and should be elaborated in detail. These safety principles
need to be spelled out or they don't belong in the County Plan.
• 22.b Develop educational programs promoting traffic safety. Where something is
designated an `action' in a County General Plan Document, sufficient detail should be
provided. This is too vague and should be elaborated in detail.
• Objective 23
Adequately maintain public transportation systems.
Policies
• 23.1 Maintain an Asset Management Program aimed at utilizing maintenance plans for
pavement, bridges, and other road infrastructure to prolong the life of our transportation
system as well as reduce its whole-life cost.
• 23.2 Maintain the unique features of historic bridges, while balancing safety needs and
preserving historic and scenic character.
• 23.3 Prioritize the replacement of deficient and inadequate bridges and maintain
pedestrian/bicycle access across bridges.
• 23.4 Design new bridges and bridge improvements to accommodate and not negatively
impede identified scenic resources.
• 23.5 Evaluate freight routes identified in the State Freight Master Plan for required
improvements to meet roadway standards.
• 23.6 Encourage the adoption of innovative materials and methods that improve roadway
sustainability and resilience.
Actions
• 23.a Create an asset management program.
• 23.b Continue the bridge inspection program and expand rehab or replacement to
include active transportation accommodations.
4.2 Transportation Access and Mobility I County of Hawaii General Plan 119
Roadway Standards
The County adheres to several federal and industry standards for roadway design. These
include the AASHTO Green Book and Roadside Design Guide, the MUTCD, the NACTO, and
the Highway Capacity Manual.5 Examples of topics addressed by these guidelines include road
geometry (e.g., curves, sight distance), safety within ROWs adjacent to travel ways, design
speeds, level of service, signs/striping/signaling, and urban transit. In addition to these sources,
the County adheres to the following locally defined standards.
Street Standards
Highways shall not be wider than four through travel lanes that accommodate single occupancy
vehicles and should be limited to the most populated areas typically connecting residential
areas with employment centers.
Integrate transportation networks to prioritize the most vulnerable roadways users and the
greenest modes of travel through a Multimodal Hierarchy (Figure 7) that prioritizes investments
in the following order:
1. Pedestrian
2. Public Transit
3. Bicycle
4. Auto
This is a directive for future transportation policy ? It is 4 words and yet it is a giant reach toward
a set of ideals and it is not explained at all in detail.
OBJECTION : This `policy directive' reflects a radical socialist agenda of forcing people to give
up automobiles and give up their autonomy at the same time. This shows contempt for the most
basic principles of freedom. . We refer you to : The United States Constitution which
"protects the freedom to move about within the country, both domestically and
internationally. This fundamental right is deeply rooted in American liberty and has been
recognized and protected by the Supreme Court. "
The priorities established in a General Plan should reflect careful consideration of the island's
economy and how to best support our island economy but instead this prioritization of
pedestrians `first' and `automobile' transport reflects an obsession with addressing carbon as a
`cause' for an alleged crisis for our climate. . It's strange to us that in this document that purports
to be about a plan for `development' there is barely a focus on the actual economy. Here instead
we see a document `prioritizing' Pedestrian travel (on an island with very few densely populated
urban centers) without context of what will actually promote agriculture, commerce, industries,
jobs and economic activities. This directive would make more sense for an Oahu General Plan
because of the size of the land mass and ratio of population. If it is in this document without
much explanation then it appears to be a reflection of a `fad' in transportation policy rather than
a practical and well thought out policy directive.
The minimum roadway width standards to accommodate the County Roadway Classifications
were adopted in Resolution 779-20. The following provides an overview of this standard with
reference to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Functional Classification system.
4.2.6 Transportation Terminals: Airports
and Harbors
As a major hub for tourism, commerce, and connectivity, Hawaii County recognizes the
importance of effective planning and management of its airports and harbors. These key
infrastructure components serve as lifelines that facilitate economic growth, enhance regional
connectivity, and provide essential services for residents and visitors. Airports and harbors
connect the County to the rest of the world, allowing for the efficient movement of goods,
people, and ideas. They are essential nodes within the transportation network, acting as
important economic drivers for the region. Efficient airports and harbors directly contribute to the
success of various industries, including tourism, agriculture, trade, and logistics. Moreover, they
are instrumental in supporting emergency response efforts, disaster management, and ensuring
the overall resilience of the region's transportation system.
Again, over and over the objection `in general' to this General Plan 2045 is that the document
references `economic growth' and yet does not address the actual drivers of the economy in
detail. As public servants it is your best service to our island if you would study how you can
support the farmers, producers of goods and services to build a great economy together.
Unfortunately there are dozens of instances where legislators and public servants have imposed
restrictions, fees and taxes on those very `drivers' of our economy. Airport Terminals and
Harbors do not `cause' the economy to grow and are not drivers of the economy and yet we see
a General Plan with weighted emphasis on `transportation' and urban development without
seeing evidence of a study of what will actually support the individuals and households that
produce economic value for our actual economy. This is an extremely poor outcome for a
document that presents as a `guide' for legislators and policy makers for the next 20 plus years.
The principal concerns of planning for transportation terminals involve a comprehensive
approach that addresses various aspects, including location, zoning of adjacent land,
infrastructure development, capacity management, safety and security measures,
environmental sustainability, integration with other modes of transportation, and financing and
programming of improvements and services through capital improvement projects. While the
State of Hawaii Department of Transportation (DOT) is responsible for the actual design,
construction, and operation of terminals and supporting facilities, the General Plan addresses
the location of these facilities in relation to the pattern of overall land uses. There are two deep
draft harbors on the island, one in Hilo and another in Kawaihae.
While improvements continue to be made, both harbor terminals lack adequate docking and
Harbor has increased significantly as the population and development in West Hawaii continue
to grow. In 2011, the Hawaii Commercial Harbors 2035 Master Plan was developed by the
State to accommodate the future needs of facilities
CONCERN: THE HARBORS SHOULD NOT BE CONTROLLED BY THE STATE OF
HAWAII. THEY ARE HARBORS CRUCIAL TO THE ECONOMY OF OUR ISLAND AND
WERE PREVIOUSLY UNDER THE CONTROL OF THE COUNTY. WHAT HAPPENED
TO HOME RULE? WHERE WAS THE CONSULTATION OF THE PUBLIC WHEN
DECISIONS WERE MADE TO HAND OVER CONTROL OF OUR HARBORS TO THE
STATE ?.
Air terminals that transportation are in Hilo, Waimea, `Upolu, and Kona. The terminals at
Hilo and Kona are overseas facilities. Overseas flights at the Kona International Airport
at Keahole will continue to increase with the growth of resort areas in Kona and Kohala.
Overseas flights through Hilo International Airport have been important for agriculture in
East Hawaii.
What is concerning about this County General Plan 2045 is the lack of analysis about
our actual economy. WHY DO WE SEE A DOCUMENT THAT STATES `OVERSEAS
FLIGHTS WILL CONTINUE TO INCREASE WITH THE GROWTH OF RESORT
AREAS?' THIS PLAN SEEMS FLAWED DUE TO LACKING IN CRITICAL
`ARGUMENTS' FOR THE PLANNED GROWTH BASED ON ACTUAL NUMBERS AND
STUDIES . IF THERE ARE STUDIES AND STATISTICS THAT DO SUPPORT THE
ASSERTIONS MADE MULTIPLE TIMES IN THE GENERAL PLAN ABOUT
PROJECTED ECONOMIC GROWTH THEN THEY SHOULD BE REFERENCED AND
INCLUDED IN THE PLAN. ALSO CITATIONS OF WHERE THIS INFORMATION WAS
PRESENTED TO THE PUBLIC IN `CONSULTATIONS'
STRANGELY THE HILO PLAN IS MISSING FROM THE GENERAL PLAN DOCUMENT
AND THIS IS ONE OF TWO URBAN CENTERS AND THE CENTER FROM WHICH
TWO OF THE `HARBORS' AND `TERMINALS' OPERATE? THIS SEEMS (AGAIN) A
GLARING OMISSION.
Since 2011, the DOT has embarked on a $2.3 billion Hawaii Airports Modernization
Program to improve the safety, capacity, and efficiency of our major passenger and
cargo airports.
As the population becomes more mobile and as resident and visitor populations increase, there
will be a greater demand for new and expanded transportation facilities that are adjacent to
compatible land uses and include alternative and active transportation connections to decrease
the demand for cars and reliance on fossil fuels. OBJECTION TO THIS SENTENCE IS THAT
IT IS NOT SUPPORTED BY ANY FACTS OR AN ARGUMENT MADE FOR THE CASE BEING
PRESENTED. AGAIN THE CONCERN ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT IS THAT IT IS
COMMITTING OUR ENTIRE COUNTY GOVERNMENT AND OUR LEGISLATURE TO A
RADICAL COURSE OF ACTION BASED ON THE PREMISE THAT FOSSIL FUELS ARE TO
BE ERADICATED AND THAT PERSONAL AUTOMOBILE TRANSPORTATION SHOULD ALSO
BE ERADICATED AND OR COMPLETELY ELIMINATED. THESE PREMISES ARE PART OF A
RADICAL SOCIALIST AGENDA THAT VIOLATES THE CONSTITUTION SINCE IT WILL
UNDOUBTEDLY LIMIT THE FREEDOM OF UNITED STATES CITIZENS TO FREELY MOVE
ABOUT.
service
inter-island
4.2 Transportation Access and Mobility I County of Hawaii General Plan 122
Objective 24
Improve accessibility to airports, harbor systems, and support facilities.
Policies
• 24.1 Encourage the programmed improvement of existing terminals, including adequate
provisions for control of pollution and appropriate and adequate covered storage
facilities for agricultural products.
• 24.2 The State Department of Transportation should continue to implement its plans for
transportation terminals and related facilities to promote and follow desired land use
policies.
• 24.3 Transportation terminals should be developed in conjunction with the different
elements of the overall transportation system.
• 24.4 Encourage maximum use of the island's airport and harbor facilities.
• 24.5 Encourage the development, maintenance, and enhancement of Hilo and
Kawaihae Harbors as detailed within the State's Hawai'i Commercial Harbors 2035
Master Plan. THIS COULDN'T BE MORE VAGUE AS A STATED OBJECTIVE. IT
DOESN'T REFERENCE THE VERY PRACTICAL MATTERS OF ECONOMIC DRIVERS
AND OVERALL ECONOMIC HEALTH OF OUR ISLAND. WHERE IS DISCUSSION
ABOUT THE ACTUAL ECONOMY IN THIS ENTIRE DOCUMENT ? THIS ALSO OMITS
MENTION THAT A PROSPEROUS AGRICULTURAL ECONOMY WOULD BE THE
RATIONALE FOR MAINTENANCE OF THE INFRASTRUCTURE AT KAWAIHAII AND
HILO HARBORS. AGAIN THERE IS AN OBJECTION TO HANDING OVER HARBORS
TO THE STATE OF HAWAII WHERE THEY ARE CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE TO
THE ISLAND .
• 24.6 Support the State's objectives to acquire rights within the runway clear-zones, limit
heights within approach zones, and restrict noise-sensitive uses within designated noise
contours determined by the State. CONCERN: THIS APPEARS TO REFERENCE
PROPERTY ACQUISITION AND SUGGESTS THAT THE COUNTY SHOULD
`SUPPORT' THE STATE TO RESTRICT USES AND ACTIVITIES IN CERTAIN AREAS
`NEAR TO AIRPORTS?' THIS AGAIN IS ONE MORE COMMUNIST LAND GRAB
PRACTICE. THIS DOESN'T BELONG IN OUR COUNTY PLAN DOCUMENT FOR
2045.
• 24.7 Future land uses in the vicinity of airports and harbors should have an adequate
open space buffer and/or be compatible with the anticipated noise exposure and
industrial nature in the vicinity.
• 24.8 Encourage pedestrian-oriented connectivity around harbors and small boat
harbors.
• 24.9 Encourage master planning of small boat harbors to accommodate commercial
and recreational fishing, tour boats, as well as business and recreational ocean
activities, that balance economic vitality and environmental sensitivity. CONCERN
THERE HAS BEEN AN ONGOING ATTEMPT TO EXCLUDE MANY USERS FROM
ACCESS TO
HARBORS (SAILING COMMUNITY, FISHING COMMUNITY HAVE EXPERIENCED
HIGHER USER FEES AND MORE RESTRICTIONS OF USE IN RECENT YEARS) AND
MANY OF THE HARBORS IN THE STATE HAVE BECOME PRIVATIZED. (If
privatization occurs, then management controls everything. .) .
Actions
• 24.a Create a strategic improvement plan, including mapping, for County owned and/or
managed boat harbors and develop an island-wide needs assessment to better serve
regional gaps in ocean accesses.
• 24.b Ensure collaboration with State agencies to offer a variety of transportation options
at airports and harbors.
4.2 Transportation Access and Mobility I County of Hawaii General Plan 123
4.3 PUBLIC UTILITIES
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 124
4.3. 1 Introduction
In Hawaii County's pursuit of a prosperous and resilient future, public utilities stand as pillars of
essential infrastructure. THERE IS A LOFTY CLAIM MADE BY THIS ENTIRE EXERCISE TO
SUGGEST THAT THE DOCUMENT ITSELF REPRESENTS ANY KIND OF PLAN FOR A
PROSPEROUS AND RESILIENT FUTURE. THERE ARE MANY BUZZWORDS THAT ARE
BEING USED IN THIS DOCUMENT THAT ARE HOLLOW. THESE WORDS THEMSELVES
DON'T CONJURE UP A FUNCTIONING ECONOMY BUT THEY DO OFTEN GIVE PUBLIC
SERVANTS THE WARM FEELING THAT THESE WORDS CAN `DO ALL THE WORK.' THIS
DOCUMENT IS LACKING IN A GROUNDING OF ACTUAL ECONOMIC STUDY AND LACKS
THE INSIGHTS INTO THE OBVIOUS WAYS THAT COUNTY GOVERNMENT COULD
SUPPORT THE AGRICULTURE AND TOURISM SECTOR AND ENCOURAGE NEW
INDUSTRY ON THE ISLAND.
These are services regulated by the government and provided in response to existing and
prospective patterns of development. Changes in land use, population density, and development
usually generate changes in the demand and supply of utilities. As the backbone of modern
society, public utilities encompass a wide range of vital services that support the health, safety,
and sustainability of our communities. This critical infrastructure allows us to function in many
ways, including the ability to maintain healthy living conditions, proper sanitation, and access
reliable energy to power our homes and businesses.
Public utilities play a key role in forming the foundation upon which social, economic, and
environmental progress is built. Such essential services enhance the quality of life for residents,
visitors, and businesses while safeguarding the natural resources and cultural heritage of our
island. The significance of public utilities can be understood through their contributions in the
areas of environmental sustainability, economic prosperity, and social well-being.
Public utilities drive environmental stewardship by promoting clean energy generation, efficient
water management, waste reduction, and recycling initiatives.
AS PART OF GENERAL PLANNING AND GOOD MANAGEMENT PRACTICE, WHY HAS
THERE BEEN NO AUDIT OF THE WASTEWATER DIVISION OF THE WASTE MANAGEMENT
DEPARTMENT? NO DOCUMENT PURPORTING TO PLAN AHEAD FOR 20 PLUS YEARS
CAN COVER FOR THE FACT THAT MALADMINISTRATION AND POOR LEADERSHIP HAS
LEAD TO MULTIPLE `FAILS' OF RAW SEWAGE TREATMENT WHERE LEAKS OCCURRED
AND THE PUBLIC WASN'T ADEQUATELY INFORMED. THE PLAN SHOULD START WITH A
MORE SERIOUS ASSESSMENT OF THE FAILURES OF THE CURRENT MANAGEMENT
STRATEGY IN OUR WASTEWATER SYSTEM.
Through the application of sustainable practices and technologies, public utilities protect our
fragile ecosystems, mitigate climate change impacts, and preserve the beauty of our island for
future generations. HOW DO `PUBLIC UTILITIES' `MITIGATE' `CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS ?
This is an example of a wild overstatement and is not supported by fact. Additionally, robust
and reliable infrastructure attracts investment, supports economic growth, and fosters job
creation. From powering local industries to enabling efficient transportation networks, public
utilities are catalysts for economic development, making our communities more resilient in the
face of challenges. Waste to Energy incinerators have been opposed multiple times in the past
in Hawaii County and each time a massive multi million dollar contract for construction of an
incinerator was required which the public was going to be financing over many years. We notice
that the Incinerator `Waste to Energy' proposal is in this County General Plan 2045 in spite of all
the protests in the past. This history of pushing forward unpopular projects that have seen
community objection and then forcing the property
Access to safe and affordable utilities is a fundamental right of every individual.
Really ?? Who wrote this ?As a general comment, it has been pointed out repeatedly that this
`General Plan' document is poorly written and has many flaws.Here we see misuse of the term
`fundamental rights' where there is no such `fundamental right.' While `Safe and Affordable
utilities' may be considered `essential' for a `standard of living' or to meet the definition of
`economic prosperity' but use of the phrase `fundamental right' is a confusion of what the legal
understanding is concerning `fundamental rights.' The `fundamental rights' of say .. `freedom to
move' ARE (as cited elsewhere in the transportation section) the rights that this document
happily waives aside (ignoring the Constititution in the process) .
Further, there should be statistics included about what proportion of the island currently is `off
grid' since that proportion is very high and those numbers would provide a necessary context for
all discussion about proposals to provide utilities `affordably' AND `universally.'
Public utilities ensure equitable distribution of resources, allowing residents of all
socioeconomic backgrounds to enjoy necessities such as clean water, affordable energy, and
accessible internet-based services. These services enhance public health, education, and
overall quality of life, fostering thriving and inclusive communities. `
As with previous comment, this entire section seems flawed due to lacking in facts. This
statement reflects `wishes' rather than a series of steps toward an attainable goal.
Given the unique challenges posed by our geography and vulnerable ecosystem, the General
Plan aims to effectively guide the development, maintenance, and improvement of these critical
services. This section of the Plan is primarily concerned with the planning aspects of our, water,
wastewater, stormwater, electricity, and telecommunications systems. Planning for the location
of utility facilities such as reservoirs, pumping stations, and sewage treatment plants is an
important aspect of the land planning process, as it makes way for development opportunities.
Where is the context for this statement? Here we see the notion of`development opportunities'
being introduced without context or explanation. This is objectionable since it could be
interpreted by future administrations or legislatures as a `mandate' for growth while lacking any
parameters.
Unintegrated utilities can burden developments with lower levels of service and may limit or
even prevent development. The integration and availability of public utilities in priority growth
areas are imperative. CONCERN: Why isn't this spelled out more ? Why is there no clear
explanation here of what is meant by `priority growth area' .
Changes in the intensity of land use greatly influence the quantitative design of utilities and
services, particularly their design capacity. There may be distinctions in the type of services
offered for each utility as land use intensities vary. These distinctions also depend on local
codes and ordinances, health and sanitary considerations, and practices followed by utility
companies.
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 125
Table 33: Public Utilities Challenges
General
•Funding and financing the development, conversion, repair, operations, and maintenance of public
utilities are central challenges for communities, developers, and county government. WHAT IS MISSING
HERE IS REFERENCE TO THE IDEA THAT HOMEOWNERS WILL ALL BE ASKED TO PAY FOR
CONVERSION FROM CESSPOOL/SEPTIC OVER TO ACTUAL COUNTY SEWER
INFRASTRUCTURE. THIS TOPIC DESERVES A FULL DISCUSSION.
DITTO WHAT IS CONCERNING IS THAT THE PUBLIC CAN BE REQUIRED TO PAY FOR
`DEVELOPMENT OF PUBLIC UTILITIES..
•Any large infrastructure expansions are paid for by developers and the costs are not to scale for
financing.
•Geographical variability and obstacles require creative solutions for utility buildout.
•Aging public utility infrastructure must become more resilient to natural hazards, extreme
weather events, and climate change impacts. WHERE ARE THE CITED STUDIES PROVING THAT
CLIMATE CHANGE IS CAUSING WEATHER EVENTS/CLIMATE WEATHER ? IN THE ENTIRE
DOCUMENT WE SEE NONE REFERENCED.
•Absent, aging, or dilapidated infrastructure limits new development where it is needed, consistent with
strategic land use patterns and inhibits existing development. THIS SENTENCE IS POORLY WRITTEN
WITH THE RESULT OF CONFUSING THE READER. WHY ARE WE LEFT WONDERING WHAT IS
BEING SAID HERE?
•Outdated utility systems and practices can pose environmental and health concerns and are expensive
to change.
•Disputes over water source capacity can prevent development where it is needed and consistent with
desired development patterns.
•Water commitments have been assigned to parcels that are not being developed or lack development
potential. THIS NEEDS TO BE TAKEN OUT OR ELSE EXPLAINED SO THAT THE MEANING IS
CLEAR.
•Guidelines for assigning water units per system need to be updated.
•Modeling of water demand and potential demand needs to be closely aligned to land use. •The water
systems serving, North Kohala, South Kohala, North Kona, and Puna will require additional water source
development.
•On-site wastewater disposal can adversely impact groundwater resources. THIS APPEARS TO BE A
REFERENCE TO SEPTIC/CESS POOL SYSTEMS. ELABORATION AND A LOT MORE DETAIL
SHOULD BE REQUIRED HERE.
•Wastewater planning and policy primarily focus on maintaining and servicing existing systems and do
not proactively plan for developing new systems to accommodate growth or to extend existing lines to
align with urban zoning.
•County policy has largely relied on private developers to develop commercial and private wastewater
systems for new development, which ultimately leaves significant municipal service gaps in urban areas.
•Many County wastewater systems may not be able to accommodate unserved, existing zoned capacity
and projected growth.
•Landowners and developers may incur the costs of constructing private systems or upgrades due to the
insufficiency and lack of wastewater systems in many areas.
•Wastewater requirements hinder the redevelopment or rehabilitation of existing structures and are often
seen as an affordable housing issue.
•Treated wastewater is typically discharged into ocean waters or injected into the ground and is not
generally reused.
•Wastewater infrastructure improvement and development costs are not fiscally planned for, either in the
County budget or through County wastewater fee valuation.
• Individual wastewater systems (IWS) are associated with limitations and regulations. Currently, the
Department of Health's rules do not allow single-family dwellings and additional dwelling units (ADU) on a
single IWS system.
•Reliance on IWS is an impediment to compact development due to minimum lot size requirements for
IWS, thereby contributing to sprawl.
•Coastal residential neighborhoods without centralized wastewater are contaminating near- shore waters
with pollution from IWS. ELABORATION AND A LOT MORE DETAIL SHOULD BE REQUIRED HERE.
THIS SEEMS TO IMPLY A POLICY DIRECTIVE THAT IS SPECIFIC TO APPLY TO COASTAL
NEIGHBORHOODS ? IMPOSING FINES OR HIGH COSTS TO HOME OWNERS TO ADDRESS A NEW
REQUIREMENT FOR MAINS SEWER OR EVEN SEPTIC TANK INSTALLATION IN ROCKY TERRAIN
WILL LEAD TO DELINQUENCY AND THEN FINES AND POTENTIAL SEIZURE OF PROPERTY. THIS
IS A VERY `DANGEROUS' POLICY DIRECTIVE TO LEAVE AMBIGUOUS. THE CONSEQUENCES OF
THIS POLICY DIRECTIVE MUST BE EXPLORED AND CLEARLY STATED.
THIS DOCUMENT IS CITING THE HUGE OBSTACLES TO ADDRESSING THE PROBLEMS OF OUR
ISLAND WHERE SO MANY HOUSEHOLDS RELY ON CESSPOOLS. WHILE THERE ARE EXAMPLES
OF INNOVATIVE BIO-REMEDIATION METHODS AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO CONVENTIONAL
`WASTEWATER TREATMENT' NO STUDIES ARE INCLUDED, NO MENTION OF THESE KINDS OF
OPTIONS ARE INCLUDED. BIO REMEDIATION WOULD MOST CERTAINLY BELONG IN A
DOCUMENT LIKE THIS SINCE SUCH METHODS SHOULD BE EXPLORED AS A COST SAVING
MEASURE AND DATA IS AVAILABLE TO DEMONSTRATE EFFECTIVENESS. FURTHER THE IMPACT
TO COASTAL ECO SYSTEMS OF INADEQUATELY TREATED WASTEWATER AND RAW SEWAGE
ARE WORTHY OF MENTION HERE IN THIS DOCUMENT.
TO CITE A WELL KNOWN EXAMPLE: THE `GENKI BALL' EXPERIMENTS HAVE BEEN DONE IN
SEVERAL POLUTED WATERWAYS IN HAWAII. MOST NOTABLY THE `GENKI BALLS' USED AT ALA
WAI CANAL IN HONOLULU RESULTED IN BETTER WATER QUALITY AND FISH RETURNING TO
THE AREA. WHERE A COMBINATION OF CULTURED `BOKASHI'AND CLAY WERE INTRODUCED
TO THE WATERWAYS THUS BILLIONS OF MICROBES WERE RELEASED CAPABLE OF REDUCING
ECOLI AND OTHER LEVELS OF BACTERIA IN THE WATER. THIS AND OTHER KINDS OF
BIOREMEDIATION BELONGS IN A PLANNING DOCUMENT FOR HAWAII ISLAND.
PAGE 126
•The looming deadline to convert cesspools to sewer or other IWS may create lack of local expertise to
meet demand if not properly planned.
•The future impacts of climate change on future rainfall volumes are uncertain. WHERE IS THE
FACTUAL EVIDENCE THAT THERE IS SUCH A THING AS `MAN MADE CLIMATE CHANGE'?
•Outdated codes limit the effectiveness of stormwater infrastructure and stormwater-related
practices.
•Water quality changes caused by non-point source pollution, human activities, erosion, and
sediment transport can negatively impact environmental systems and processes.
•A lack of incentives and flexibility exists in the permitting process for stormwater and green
infrastructure.
•There is a lack of a dedicated funding source for public systems.
•There is a heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels for power generation.
•The State of Hawaii has the highest electricity rates in the United States.
•Building codes, design perspectives, and construction practices can increase electrical demand.
•There is a constant need to update and renovate electrical systems and infrastructure.
•The adoption of renewable energy practices may offload environmental costs to other distant
communities, which can offset positive climate action. POORLY WRITTEN , AMBIGUOUS
GENERALIZING STATEMENTS LIKE THIS DO NOT BELONG IN A COUNTY GENERAL PLAN . WHAT
EXACTLY IS MEANT BY THE TERM RENEWABLE ENERGY`PRACTICES?' WHAT ENVIRONMENT
COSTS ARE REFERRED TO HERE? HOW ARE COSTS `OFFLOADED TO DISTANT COMMUNITIES'
HOW ARE THESE OFFSETTING `POSITIVE CLIMATE ACTION?'
•Renewable energy developments can be controversial, such as geothermal and wind turbines. THIS
STATEMENT IS OBJECTIONABLE. THE REASON THESE `ENERGY DEVELOPMENTS'ARE
`CONTROVERSIAL' IS THAT THEY HAVE INJURED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND ARE KNOWN
TO CAUSE HARM. WE NOTE THAT NUCLEAR POWER WAS IN THE ORIGINAL FIRST DRAFT OF
THIS DOCUMENT AND IS ALSO CONTROVERSIAL.IF MAKING A CASE FOR GEOTHERMAL OR
WIND TURBINES (OR NUCLEAR ENERGY) OPPORTUNITY TO SUBMIT DOCUMENTATION
ACKNOWLEDGING THE RISKS SHOULD BE AFFORDED TO THE PUBLIC.
• Inadequate access disrupts efficiency and productivity and is a barrier to accessing public services and
information. INADEQUATE ACCESS TO WHAT?THIS IS A POOR SENTENCE AND IS AMBIGUOUS
IN MEANING.
•Last mile infrastructure is often the most costly and difficult segment to deploy, especially for rural areas
where distances from a central distribution point are greater and population density doesn't economically
promote the deployment.
•Consistent and accurate service data is needed to provide a constantly improving network for the
island.THE STATEMENT `PROVIDING A CONSTANTLY `IMPROVING NETWORK' CAN BE
INTERPRETED TO REFERENCE THE INCREASINGLY INTENSE LEVELS OF SIGNAL BEING
ESTABLISHED. 5 G WHILE BRINGING HIGHER SPEED LEVELS OF DATA TRANSFER IS PROVING
TO POSE A HEALTH RISK TO HUMAN TISSUE. THE REGULATION OF 5G TOWERS WITH
CONSIDERATIONS FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY IS AN URGENT ISSUE. WE NOTE THAT THE
DIRECTOR OF PLANNING ZENDO KERN HAS RECENTLY RECOMMENDED GUIDELINES THAT
WILL NOT STRINGENTLY ENFORCE SAFETY STANDARDS FOR THE COMMUNITY.
•Providers seeking to deploy broadband infrastructure face multiple layers of permitting and approvals at
both the State and County level, in addition to community opposition regarding the installation of
telecommunications towers. SEE ABOVE COMMENT. THIS REFLECTS AN INTENTIONAL DISREGARD
FOR SAFETY CONCERNS THAT ARE WIDELY DOCUMENTED AND CURRENTLY THE SUBJECT OF
LEGISLATION.
•Limited competition in broadband service providers and transpacific backhaul providers means high
consumer rates due to a lack of competition within the market. (??? THIS IS JARGON THAT ISN'T
EXPLAINED )
General
•Pursue creative funding and financing tools such as Community Facilities Districts (CFD) and
Improvement Districts, for utility development, conversion, repair, operations, and maintenance.
THIS NEEDS BETTER EXPLANATION. `CREATIVE FUNDING' IS AN OBJECTIONABLE TERM AND
SOUNDS LIKE A PROCESS FOR SELLING OFF UTILITIES OR FINANCING CONSTRUCTION,
REPAIRS OR MAINTENANCE SO EITHER WAY, THE PUBLIC WILL PAY MORE FOR UTILITIES.
•Ensure that utility development matches desirable development priorities.
•Streamline the process of utility infrastructure development to achieve the highest possible
level of service for our communities.
•Lead the charge in resource conservation and assess creative solutions to incentivize
resource conservation for the public.
•Prioritize the conversion and modernization of outdated utility systems and practices.
•Use an integrated approach to value all water as a resource (e.g., drinking water,
wastewater, stormwater).
•Collaborate with asset management (e.g., road resurfacing and utility upgrades). ASSET
MANAGEMENT IS A VAGUE TERM THAT IS NOT SUFFICIENTLY DEFINED.
•Explore public-private partnership opportunities to create circular systems. ANOTHER VAGUE TERM
THAT IS NOT SUFFICIENTLY DEFINED. PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS USUALLY IS ANOTHER
WORD FOR INCREASING PUBLIC DEBT WHILE GIVING AWAY PUBLIC ASSETS TO PRIVATE
CORPORATIONS. THIS IS MORE FROM THE PAGES OF SOCIALISM AND WE REJECT IT.
• Increase partnerships and enhance collaboration with government, private and nonprofit agencies, and
other stakeholders. HERE `OTHER STAKEHOLDERS' IS A VAGUE TERM THAT IS NOT
SUFFICIENTLY DEFINED. PLEASE DEFINE IT CLEARLY OR TAKE IT OUT ALTOGETHER.
•Explore innovative ways to fund water infrastructure improvements to attract development that is
consistent with desired density and the land use pattern. AGAIN A REFERENCE TO `DESIRED
DENSITY AND LAND USE PATTERNS' THIS HAS NOT BEEN SUFFICIENTLY EXAMINED IN THE
PLANNING DOCUMENT AND IS BEING REFERENCE HERE AS A STANDARD
•Seek creative funding for significant expansion of water systems to reach new customers in non-service
areas.
•Promote and practice water conservation practices to maximize efficient water use.
•Adopt One Water recommendations to standardize interagency collaboration in planning for and
managing water resources.
•Rainfall collection can provide additional water capacity even where we have Department of Water
Supply (DWS) systems. NEEDS CLEAR EXPLANATION.
•Align the Water Use Development Plan, Master Plan, General Plan, DWS Capital Improvements
Program (CIP), DWS guidelines, DWS water commitments, and private improvements to the DWS
system. NEEDS CLEAR EXPLANATION.
•Exercise some controls over the permitted uses within the defined zone of influence for downstream
deep well sources. IN THIS GENERAL PLANNING DOCUMENT THERE APPEARS TO BE NO
MENTION OF THE IMPACT OF MILITARY ON THE SOIL, WATER AND AIR QUALITY. HERE A
REFERENCE TO POLLUTERS UPSTREAM OF WATER SOURCES AND YET MILITARY IS NOT
MENTIONED? POHAKULOA MILITARY BASE CONTINUES TO LEASE FOR $1 AND CONDUCTS LIVE
FIRE TRAINING DIRECTLY ABOVE THE ISLAND'S VAST AQUIFER. IT HAS BEEN A KNOWN FACT
THAT DEPLETED URANIUM HAS BEEN SCATTERED ONTO THE BASE AND CONTINUES TO BE
DISTURBED BY MILITARY ACTIVITIES UP THERE.
•Encourage groundwater recharge from regional scale master planning to on-site best management
practices such as low-impact development (LID).
• Increase opportunities for recycled water. THIS SHOULD BE ELABORATED SINCE IT APPEARS TO
BE A DIRECTIVE. THE PUBLIC IS ENTITLED TO BE CONSULTED ON SUCH MATTERS.
•Prioritize sewer for sensitive urban areas.
•Proactively seek grant funding to assist with wastewater development. AGAIN STATING THAT
REFERENCING OVER AND OVER THE NEED FOR `WASTEWATER DEVELOPMENT' WHILE
DEDICATING NO TIME AND EFFORT TO EXPLORING ALTERNATIVE METHODS OF BIO
REMEDIATION IS A MAJOR OMMISSION
•Advocate for expanding cesspool conversion tax credit to all cesspool conversions. THESE ARE
MAJOR COSTS BEING PASSED ON TO HOME OWNERS.
•Explore opportunities for public-private partnerships as well as those for technology upgrades and
innovation. THE TERM `PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP' IS A TERM ASSOCIATED WITH
INCREASED DEBT FOR THE PUBLIC AND A REDUCTION (USUALLY) IN HARD ASSETS THAT ARE
HANDED OVER TO CORPORATE PRIVATE INTERESTS.
•Promote the expanded use of greywater for landscape irrigation and groundwater recharge via rules for
new construction and retrofits
•Advocate to the Department of Health (DOH)to adopt appropriately scaled requirements and standards
and develop flexible guidelines for designing and permitting wastewater systems that meet environmental
objectives.
•Low-pressure systems should be prioritized for retrofitting instead of gravity flow. •Higher-density
development can contribute more to a centralized system. HERE AGAIN WE SEE AN ASSERTION
THAT FUTURE DEVELOPMENT WILL BE HIGHER DENSITY AND THIS LACKS PUBLIC DISCUSSION
AND YET
Drinking Water
Wastewater
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 128
Stormwater
Electricity& Energy
Telecommunications & Broadband
• Increase availability and access to information about private wastewater treatment plant capacities or
expansion opportunities.
•Prioritize resiliency measures that support climate change impact scenarios.
•Regularly amend County codes to be as current and innovative as possible.
•Be a leader in prioritizing green infrastructure over gray infrastructure.
•Ensure that stormwater infrastructure decisions align with related plans and the CIP
budget.
•Green infrastructure practices may provide opportunities for creating or expanding
industry.
•Prioritize the use of native plants in landscaping.
•Promote and support the development of alternative energy production facilities.
•Be a net power producer with hydrogen and waste management. THIS STATEMENT WARRANTS
ELABORATION OR IT DOESN'T BELONG IN THIS DOCUMENT.
•Hawai`i Island has the highest renewable energy percentage in the State and can continue
to support renewable energy projects to decarbonize our energy system and stabilize electricity costs.
WHAT DOES `DECARBONIZE OUR ENERGY SYSTEM'ACTUALLY MEAN ? ELECTRIC CARS ON
THE ISLAND ARE CHARGED AT STATIONS THAT RELY ON POWER FROM DIESEL FUEL
GENERATORS. IN OTHER WORDS ELECTRIC CARS REMAIN DEPENDENT ON THOSE FOSSIL
FUELS BUT WE SEE OUR COUNTY GOVERNMENT PROMOTING ELECTRIC CARS AS PART OF AN
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY STRATEGY. THE NOTION OF `DECARBONIZING OUR ENERGY SYSTEM'
IS FEEDING A MYTH ABOUT HOW RAPIDLY `WE' CAN TRANSFORM OUR ENTIRE ECONOMY AND
OUR WAY OF LIFE. THE IDEA OF `DECARBONIZING' THE ENERGY SYSTEM IS VERY VERY
RADICAL AND IS COMING FROM A SOCIALIST MYTH THAT CARBON (THE BUILDING BLOCK OF
LIFE) IS `BAD'AND THAT SOMEHOW `CARBON' IS THE CAUSE OF WEATHER EVENTS AND
`CLIMATE CHANGE.' THERE IS NO EVIDENCE THAT SUPPORTS A RADICAL AGENDA TO
`DECARBONIZE' OUR ENTIRE ENERGY SYSTEM.
FURTHER, SINCE THIS WILL REQUIRE COMPLETE DISRUPTION TO THE TRANSPORTATION
SYSTEM AND SINCE IT IS IMPLIED THAT PEOPLE WILL BE DISCOURAGED FROM MOVING
ABOUT `FREELY' THIS IS A RADICAL OVERHAUL OF OUR ECONOMY WHICH IS LIKELY TO
PRODUCE MANY PAINFUL SHOCKS TO INDIVIDUALS, OHANA AND COMMUNITIES. THIS IS
ABOUT THE CLEAREST EXAMPLE OF `RECKLESS'ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT THAT
ONE COULD POSSIBLY IMAGINE.
WHAT IS EXTREMELY DISTURBING ABOUT SEEING THE COUNTY DOCUMENT LINE UP SO
CLOSELY WITH DECLARED GOALS OF AN ELITE INSTITUTION REPRESENTING THE WEALTHIEST
1% OF OUR PLANET (`THE WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM') IS THAT THIS ORGANIZATION
APPOINTED ITSELF AS THE CUSTODIANS AND ARBITERS OF A PLAN TO BRING IN THE 4TH
INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION WHICH IS THE MOST RADICAL OF ALL THE TRANSITIONS AT ANY
TIME IN HISTORY AND BROUGHT ABOUT THROUGH A SERIES OF CRISES: PANDEMIC DISEASE,
`CLIMATE EVENTS' THAT APPEAR AS A CRISIS AND ALSO FOOD SHORTAGES IN PART CAUSED
BY INTERFERENCE WITH SUPPLY CHAIN THAT BEGAN WITH LOCKDOWNS IN 2020. THE CATCH
PHRASE BY WEF LEADER KLAUS SCHWAB AT THE TIME OF INTRODUCING `THE GREAT RESET'
WAS `BY 2030 YOU WILL OWN NOTHING AND YOU WILL BE HAPPY.'
WE SPECIFICALLY OBJECT TO TERMS SUCH AS `DECARBONIZING OUR ENERGY SYSTEM'
BECAUSE THIS IMPLIES THAT YOU HAVE THE CONSENT OF THE PUBLIC
A) TO ASSERT THAT CARBON IS A PROBLEM AS IF THERE IS CONSENSUS ON THIS TOPIC
WHEN THERE IS NOT
AND B) TO TAKE EXTREMELY RADICAL AND DANGEROUS STEPS TO TRANSITION THE ENTIRE
TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM AWAY FROM FOSSIL FUELS IN A VERY SHORT PERIOD OF TIME.
Support the County's Broadband Initiative and coordination with the State to facilitate digital equity efforts
(e.g., establishing broadband as a public utility, infrastructure deployment, providing training support, and
coordinating funding strategies for broadband and telecommunication services). AFTER 5G THERE IS
6G COMING . WITH EACH OF THE INCREMENTAL INCREASES IN THE INTENSITY OF THE
FREQUENCY ILLNESSES AND TISSUE DAMAGE RESULTS CONSISTENT WITH `RADIATION
POISONING' . THERE NEEDS TO BE A COMMITMENT TO REVIEW SAFETY INFORMATION AND TO
TAKE AN APPROACH THAT HAS A PRECAUTIONARY PRINCIPLE. THIS IS THE MINIMUM
STANDARD OF GOOD GOVERNMENT.
•Compact development and higher population densities where appropriate are favorable for commercial
service providers as they contribute to more economically viable market conditions. WHICH
`COMMERCIAL SERVICE PROVIDERS' IS THIS REFERENCING ? THIS STATEMENT NEEDS TO BE
EXPLAINED BETTER OR ELSE REMOVED FROM THIS SECTION.
•Providing consistent and accurate digital literacy data will promote a desirable level of service for all
residents. WHAT IS DIGITAL LITERACY DATA AND HOW WILL THIS PROMOTE A DESIREABLE
LEVEL OF SERVICE ? IS `DIGITAL LITERACY DATA'A CLASS OF INFORMATION THAT COMES
WITH VIGILANT PROTECTION OF EACH AND EVERY INDIVIDUAL; THEIR PRIVACY AND THEIR 1ST
AMENDMENT RIGHTS ? WITHOUT PROTECTION OF THIS KIND, IF OUR COUNTY GOVERNMENT
IS WAIVING ON THE INVASIVE DATA COLLECTION PRACTICES OF THE DIGITAL INDUSTRY, THEN
IT MAY BE ENDANGERING THE PEOPLE OF THIS ISLAND. WE ARE REQUESTING THAT THE
PRIMACY OF SAFETY AND DATA PRIVACY ABOVE THE INTERESTS OF INVESTORS AND SERVICE
PROVIDERS ARE WRITTEN INTO THIS GENERAL PLAN. THERE IS A LOT OF DATA TO SUPPORT
THAT WHEN THE SAFETY AND PRIVACY OF INDIVIDUALS ARE COMPROMISED, THE PUBLIC
WILL BE ENDANGERED AND TYRANNY WILL LIKELY RESULT.
THESE ARE THE REASONS THE ENTIRE DOCUMENT IS FLAWED: WE DON'T SEE CARE TAKEN
BY OUR COUNTY GOVERNMENT TO PROTECT INDIVIDUALS' HEALTH AND SAFETY. .
• Increasing digital inclusion efforts, which focus on ensuring both access to and ability to use a range of
technologies, will contribute to better outcomes for health, public safety, economic opportunity, and civic
participation. THE TERM `digital inclusion' IS BASED ON AN ASSUMPTION THAT MORE ACCESS TO
5G AND HIGHER BANDWIDTH IS A POSITIVE THING. THIS PREMISE IS WIDELY PROMOTED IN
THIS POLICY DOCUMENT AND YET NO SAFETY STUDIES ARE CITED.
•Streamlining permitting and approval processes will improve the efficiency of broadband and
telecommunication development and delivery. THIS IS AMBIGUOUS AND MAY BE PROMOTION OF A
LOOSE SET OF GUIDELINES FOR TOWER PLACEMENT THAT IS NOT IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST.
•Pursue partnerships to develop public spaces with broadband access. THIS IS AMBIGUOUS AND MAY
BE PROMOTION OF AN OBJECTIVE THAT IS NOT IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST.
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 129
4.3.2 Public Utilities Goal, Objective, Policies,
and Actions
Our communities are adequately served by sustainable and efficient public
infrastructure, utilities, and services based on existing and future growth
needs, sound design principles, and effective maintenance practices.
Objective 25
Improve the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of essential infrastructure
systems.
Policies
• 25.1 Public utility facilities shall be designed at a scale that meets the needs of future
development. IN THIS DOCUMENT SO FAR, THERE IS NO INDICATION THAT AN
ACTUAL FOCUS ON THE ECONOMY, ON THE SECTORS OF THE ECONOMY THAT
REQUIRE SUPPORT, HAS ACTUALLY BEEN CONSIDERED. WHY IS THERE AN
EMPHASIS ON `FUTURE DEVELOPMENT' WITHOUT THE MAIN FOCUS BEING
ECONOMIC GROWTH?
• 25.2 Provide utilities and service facilities that minimize total cost to the public and
effectively serve the needs of the community.
• 25.3 Utility facilities shall be designed to complement adjacent land uses and minimize
pollution or disturbance of the natural environment and natural resources.
• 25.4 Improvement of existing utility services shall be encouraged to meet the needs of
users. THIS IS MEANINGLESS. WHY IS THIS SENTENCE NECESSARY ?
• 25.5 Encourage the clustering of developments to reduce the cost of providing utilities.
WE ARE FAMILIAR WITH THIS IDEOLOGY. IT'S NOT GOVERNMENT POLICY
DEVELOPMENT IT NEEDS TO BE NAMED FOR WHAT IT IT. `SMART CITY'
PROPAGANDA. STACK EM AND PACK EM HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS ARE A PART
OF THE PLAN AND THIS IS A RADICAL COMMUNIST AGENDA THAT WE REJECT.
IT IS THROUGHOUT THIS DOCUMENT WHICH IS EXTREMELY CONCERNING. THE
SMART CITIES THAT ARE BEING DESIGNED GLOBALLY ARE ANOTHER
REFLECTION OF WEF STATED GOALS TO CREATE URBAN CENTERS WHERE
SURVEILLANCE AND CARBON MONITORING FORM THE JUSTIFICATION FOR
CONFINING PEOPLE AND PREVENTING THEM FROM MOVING ABOUT FREELY
THIS IS AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND TRAITOROUS PROPOSAL TO FIND IN
A DOCUMENT THAT IS SUPPOSED TO BE DELIVERING TO OUR ISLAND A PLAN
FOR OUR WELL BEING AS A COMMUNITY, FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH, AND FOR
THE CARE OF OUR `AINA.
• 25.6 Develop short- and long-range capital improvements programs and plans for public
utilities within its jurisdiction that are consistent with the General Plan.
• 25.7 Maintain an Asset Management Program aimed at utilizing maintenance plans to
prolong the life of our utilities as well as reduce whole-life costs.
Actions
25.a Develop and adopt an Impact Fees Ordinance to aide in the expansion of public utilities.
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 130
4.3.3 Drinking Water Conservation
The Hawaii State Constitution provides that all public natural resources, including water, are
held in trust by the State for the benefit of the people. The State Constitution further maintains
that "the State has an obligation to protect, control, and regulate the use of Hawai`i's water
resources for the benefit of its people." Water availability is crucial to any type of development,
whether urban, rural, or agricultural. Water availability is based on the sustainable yields of the
groundwater hydrologic units established through the State Water Code.,
Land use allocation must be closely related to water availability, including the quantity and
quality of the water, and the adequacy of the transmission and distribution system. The General
Plan requires an understanding of water availability and capacity, current demands, and future
demands based on planned and anticipated future growth and land uses. `
The County's Department of Water Supply (DWS) is the primary agency that manages, controls,
and operates the water supplies of the County and its properties. There are 23 individual water
systems distributed throughout the island. Water demand is directly related to population and
industry usage and is expressed as gallons per day (gpd) or million gallons per day (mgd).
Demand does not represent domestic consumption alone, but also includes all agricultural,
industrial, and commercial uses, fire protection, and other uses. In some areas, however,
non-domestic users are likely to create the major demand, and careful attention must therefore
be given in any study of probable future water needs.
In Hawaii, there are a multitude of public agencies that are either actively tasked with regulating
water resources or whose policies affect water use. There are also a number of private entities
that use and manage water resources. Over the decades, water management has become
segregated in a way that
has created disjointed, mechanical approaches to a naturally continuous resource. The
disconnection has included narrow perspectives that fail to see the larger picture. Hawaii
County aspires to achieve water resource management that is free from the limitations and
issues of siloed practices, processes, agencies, and government bodies. Achieving a One
Water approach in Hawaii County includes actionable steps that can be adapted and adjusted
to localize the One Water strategies.
QUESTION : WHY IS A PRIVATE COMPANY BEING SOLD THE RIGHTS TO BOTTLE WATER
IN HILO ? WHY ISN'T A PLANNING DOCUMENT CONCERNED WITH FUTURE WATER
ACCESS CLEAR THAT NO WATER IS TO BE `SOLD' OR COMMERCIALIZED SINCE IT
BELONGS TO THE PEOPLE OF HAWAII?
One Water
One Water is a strategy that integrates the management of stormwater, wastewater, groundwater, sea
water, freshwater, graywater, and recycled water to create resource and financial efficiencies. One Water
will help the County of Hawaii address climate change impacts by creating cross-agency coordination
and advancing the capacity within agencies.
ANY PREMISE USED TO CONTROL WATER ACCESS, WATER RIGHTS WHETHER BY A
CORPORATION OR A GOVERNMENT MUST BE REJECTED. WATER IS AN INCREASINGLY
PRIVATISED COMMODITY ACROSS THE WORLD. THIS SHOULD CONCERN US. IT
ALREADY SEEMS EXTREMELY CONCERNING THAT ON THE ONE HAND APPLICANTS
HAVE REPEATEDLY ATTEMPTED VIA A COUNTY PERMITTING PROCESS TO PURCHASE
THE RIGHTS TO BOTTLE WATER FROM OUR MAUNA KEA AQUIFER AND ON THE OTHER
HAND THAT THE COUNTY WOULD BE PROMOTING CONTROL OF WATER MANAGEMENT
IN A CENTRALIZED FASHION INVOLVING MULTIPLE `UNDISCLOSED AGENCIES'
FURTHER, AGAIN THERE IS AN OBJECTION TO THE SUGGESTION THAT THE COUNTY
OF HAWAII WILL ADDRESS `CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS' WHEN THE VERY PREMISE OF
CLIMATE CHANGE HAS BEEN CHALLENGED BY MULTIPLE LEADING AUTHORITIES AND
IS THE SOURCE OF CONTROVERSY DUE TO THE LACK OF HARD EVIDENCE THAT
`CARBON' IS THE CAUSE OF `CLIMATE CHANGE' AND `CLIMATE EVENTS' THAT APPEAR
TO REPRESENT AN EMERGENCY.
Objective 26
Increase the protection of existing and potential sources of drinking water.
Policies
• 26.1 All public water systems shall be designed and built to the DWS dedication
standards. All other systems shall meet all relevant health and safety regulations and be
designed and constructed by a licensed engineer.
• 26.2 Water sources shall be protected to prevent depletion and contamination from
natural and man- made occurrences or events.
• 26.3 An effort by County, State, and private interests shall be coordinated to identify
sources of additional water supply to be implemented and ensure the development of
sufficient quantities of water for existing and future needs of high-growth areas and
agricultural production.
• 26.4 Installation or rehabilitation of water distributions shall be sized to adequately meet
fire protection.
• 26.5 Ensure the highest quality of water is reserved for the most valuable end-use.
• 26.6 Encourage the design of large development projects (200+ units) in the North
Kohala, South Kohala, North Kona, South Kona, and Ka'u Districts to be as water
neutral as reasonably possible through water conservation, recharge, and reuse
measures to reduce the water footprint.
• 26.7 Promote best practices in sustainable water collection and use for private water
systems.
• 26.8 Water system improvements, including exploratory wells, shall correlate with the
County's desired land use development pattern.
• 26.9 The DWS shall prioritize infill development and focus source development to serve
designated Urban Growth Areas.
• 26.10
Waterdem and projectionsshalIincludealIconsumptiveandnon-consumptivedemands.
• 26.11
The DWSandthe Plan ningDepartmentshalIcoordinateprioritiesbeforetheadoptionofanynew
water development or County land use plans.
• 26.12 AIICountypotablewatersystemsshouldhavebackupstandbysources.
One Water
• 26.13 Treat all water as a valuable resource in community design, and integrate designs
for drinking water, stormwater, and recreational water needs. CONCERN: AN EXAMPLE
OF YET MORE POORLY EXPRESSED LANGUAGE THAT SEEMS INAPPROPRIATE.
WHAT IS MEANT BY 'RECREATIONAL WATER NEEDS?'
• 26.14
Managewater,stormwater,andwastewaterasthesamenatural resourceincollaborationwithth
e DWS, DEM, DPW, and DOH.
• 26.15 New developments should be designed to reduce water demand, retain runoff,
decrease flooding, and recharge groundwater.
• 26.16 Supportlocalized,small-scalesolutionstowaterreuseandon-sitesystems.
Actions
26.a In collaboration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
conduct further research on localized rainfall modeling to accurately assess future precipitation
trends.
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 132
• 26.b Expand water conservation programs, primarily aimed at reducing demand, such
as leak detection, and rebates for low flow.
• 26.c Evaluate and amend the fee schedule for water use to take into account high water
use and aquifer recharge projections. Use the funds generated to pay for conservation
measures and infrastructure.
• 26.d Improve County water conservation practices to lead by example.
• 26.e Maintain the water master plan to consider water yield, present and future demand,
alternative sources of water, guidelines, and policies for the issuing of water
commitments.
• 26.f Collaborate with the DOH to develop standards and/or guidelines for the
construction and use of rainwater catchment systems to minimize the intrusion of any
chemical and microbiological contaminants.
• 26.g Promote the use of groundwater sources to meet DOH water quality standards.
• 26.h Seek state and federal funds to assist in financing projects to bring the County into
compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act.
• 26.i Explore the feasibility of incentive methods such as property tax deductions,
conservation easements, or transfer of development rights to protect the defined zone of
influence of existing or proposed public and private wells. AGAIN THIS SEEMS TO
REFER VAGUELY TO THE PRIVATISATION OF WATER AND CONVERSELY TO
PROPERTY ACQUISITION WHICH IS NOT CURRENTLY CONSIDERED THE
RESPONSIBILITY OF OUR COUNTY GOVERNMENT. UNDER A COMMUNIST
GOVERNMENTAL SYSTEM ONE COULD EASILY EXPECT THAT A GOVERNMENT
WOULD BE CRAFTING POLICY IN SUCH A WAY THAT TRANSFER OF PROPERTY
FROM PRIVATE LANDOWNER TO GOVERNMENT WOULD BE FACILITATED.
• 26.j Investigate alternative financing options for expanding water systems to support
infill growth consistent with the County's desired land use development pattern. AGAIN
THIS IS A VAGUE REFERENCE WHEN THAT SHOULD NOT BE LEFT AMBIGUOUS
AND THIS IS CONCERNING BECAUSE IT COMPROMISES THE VALUE OF THE
ENTIRE DOCUMENT.
• 26.k Collaborate with government, private and nonprofit agencies, communities, and
other stakeholders to develop, improve, and expand agricultural water systems in
appropriate areas on the island.
• 26.1 Continue to participate in the United States Geological Survey (USGS) exploratory
well drilling program.
• 26.m Expand programs to provide agricultural irrigation water.
One Water
• 26.n Develop water conservation and stormwater management guidelines for
commercial, industrial, and residential properties.
• 26.o Codify the administrative structure needed to develop a water resource program
and interdepartmental collaboration framework.
• 26.p Collaborate with government, private and nonprofit agencies, communities, and
other stakeholders to develop and facilitate community partnerships between upstream
and downstream communities.
• 26.q Develop public-private partnerships to leverage funding sources.
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 133
Table 35: Water System Standards Domestic Consumption Guidelines
Zoning Designation Residential: Single-Family or Duplex Multi-Family Commercial
Resort
Light Industry Schools and Parks Agriculture
Average Daily Demand
400 gals/unit
400 gals/unit
3000 gals/acre
400 gals/unit or 17,000 gal/acre 4000 gals/acre
4000 gals/acre or 60 gals/student 3400 gals/acre
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 134
4.3.4 Wastewater Treatment and Reuse
The General Plan recognizes the significance of wastewater treatment and reuse as essential
components of the County's comprehensive water management strategy. Adequate sewer
systems are vital to maintain public health and protect the environment. As communities
generate wastewater through various sources such as residential, commercial, and industrial
activities, effective treatment is necessary to remove harmful pollutants and contaminants
before the water is discharged back into the environment. Improperly treated wastewater can
have detrimental effects on marine ecosystems, coastal waters, and freshwater resources,
jeopardizing both human and ecological health.
An adequate system minimizes contamination of both the groundwater supply and coastal
waters, beaches, and waterborne recreational areas and is not a visual and odor nuisance.
Land development plans for resort-residential complexes located in shoreline areas pose a
potential water quality problem for adjacent near-shore waters. Adequate treatment facilities are
essential prerequisites for development.
HERE IN THIS DOCUMENT WITH NO REFERENCE TO BIO REMEDIATION AND WITH THE
SHEER VOLUME OF HOUSEHOLDS OPERATING OFF GRID, THIS DOCUMENT IS
CREATING `CRIME' OUT OF REGULAR HOUSEHOLD OPERATIONS. THE FACT THAT THIS
COUNTY ADMINISTRATION IS PROPOSING A POLICY DIRECTIVE TO MANDATE/ FORCE
HOUSEHOLDS TO ADDRESS THE LACK OF INFRASTRUCTURE ON OUR RURAL ISLAND
IS A VERY RECKLESS DIRECTION TO TAKE.
REFER PREVIOUS COMMENTS 1) AN AUDIT SHOULD BE DONE OF THE CURRENT
WASTEWATER DIVISION 2) ALTERNATIVE BIOREMEDIATION METHODS MUST BE
INVESTIGATED AND FINDINGS PUBLISHED. MORE PUBLIC DISCUSSION AND PUBLIC
AWARENESS IS NEEDED BEFORE THIS POLICY DIRECTIVE WOULD BE ADOPTED SINCE
IT WILL LIKELY BRING GREAT FINANCIAL STRAIN TO MANY HOUSEHOLDS AND
REQUIRE ONEROUS LEVELS OF `ENFORCEMENT.'
Wastewater reuse, also known as water recycling or reclaimed water, involves treating
wastewater to a level suitable for non-potable uses. Reusing treated wastewater provides an
opportunity to conserve precious freshwater resources and reduce the strain on existing water
supplies. For Hawaii Island, where freshwater resources are limited and vulnerable to climate
change impacts, the implementation of wastewater reuse projects becomes vital for ensuring
water sustainability. By implementing appropriate treatment processes, treated wastewater can
be used for a range of purposes, including irrigation of agricultural lands, landscape irrigation,
industrial processes, and groundwater recharge. This practice helps meet non-drinking water
needs, reducing the reliance on freshwater sources for non-potable purposes and leaving more
available for essential uses like drinking water. THERE IS NO MENTION HERE OF THE
SAFETY CONCERNS THAT MUST ACCOMPANY SUCH USES OF TREATED
WASTEWATER.
The County operates municipal sewerage in Hilo, Papa`ikou, Kapehu, Pepe`ekeo, Honoka`a,
Kealakehe, and Kaloko. The remaining communities are served by private wastewater
treatment facilities or individual facilities, such as cesspools or septic tanks. In 2017, the Hawaii
State Legislature passed Act 125, mandating that all Hawai`i's cesspools be replaced by 2050.
Cesspools are substandard sewage disposal systems as they do not treat wastewater.
According to the latest report on the Hawaii Cesspool Hazard Assessment and Prioritization
Tool, Hawaii Island contains an estimated 48,596 cesspools. Sewerage disposal system
designs must be examined with the particular region in mind. Of critical importance in an
examination of sewerage disposal for a community is the cost of the system, including
construction and operation costs. These costs vary with the characteristics of each area.
The Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 legislated the protection of all aquifers or portions of
aquifers currently serving as drinking water sources and any other aquifer capable of yielding
consumable water. This mandate was based on a national concern for the quality of the
groundwater and the increasing evidence of contamination of this valuable resource.
In 1976, the State Legislature enacted Act 84, relating to safe drinking water, which requires the
State Department of Health (DOH) to establish an underground injection control program to
protect the quality of the State's underground sources of drinking water. Because of the
importance ofgroundwater as a source of municipal water supplies, the underground injection
control program is considered a beneficial approach in the identification of aquifers that should
be protected from subsurface disposal of wastewater through injection wells.
HERE AGAIN THERE IS NO MENTION OF THE PRIMARY POLLUTER OF THE AQUIFER :
THE MILITARY BASE ON POHAKULOA. THERE IS ALSO NO MENTION OF TESTING
WATER QUALITY AND TESTING FOR CONTAMINANTS. THIS IS ANOTHER DIVISION OF
OUR COUNTY THAT SHOULD BE AUDITED. WHY IS NOTHING DONE ABOUT A MILITARY
POTENTIAL `SUPER FUND SITE' OPERATING ABOVE A PRISTINE AQUIFER?
The protection of these aquifers is established by designating areas currently being used or will
be used in the future for drinking water supply. The Underground Sources of Drinking Water
(USDW) will be protected from pollution by prohibiting the construction of new injection wells
that may pollute the USDW. Injection wells are allowed in exempted areas. The boundary lines
between the USDW and the exempted areas have been developed. ** PROVIDE THIS
INFORMATION OR ELSE TAKE OUT THIS EXEMPTION REFERENCE. THE PUBLIC
SHOULD BE BETTER INFORMED UPON READING THIS PLAN, NOT LEFT IN THE DARK
TO WONDER . Under Chapter 62, Wastewater Systems, the DOH adopted a 1,000-foot setback
of wastewater systems from all public drinking water wells and springs.
In compliance with the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 (Public Law
92- 500), the DOH and the County jointly prepared the Water Quality Management Plan for
Hawaii County in 1978 and subsequently updated the plan in 1980. In 1979, the County Council
adopted the plan through a resolution to serve as the planning guide for the development of
regional waste treatment systems and the control of non- point sources of pollution. To
implement the management plan, the County has prepared facility plans for various areas on
the island. Facility plans are developed by the County to satisfy a requirement for the application
of loans from the State to develop wastewater treatment facilities. The facility plans identify
problems, potential solutions, and costs.
In 1985, the State Legislature enacted Act 282, Relating to Environmental Quality, which
reassigns the County, effective July 1, 1987, or upon receipt of State funds, to assume complete
administration and implementation for the regulation of sewerage and wastewater treatment
system programs.
Source: Hawaii News Now(2022).
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 136
Objective 27
Planned and developed municipal sewer capacity is expanded to serve our Urban
Growth Areas and reduce sewage-related impacts on water quality.
Policies
• 27.1 A Sewerage Study for All Urban Areas, including appropriate water quality
management strategies, shall be completed and used as guides for the general planning
of sewerage disposal systems.
• 27.2 Private treatment systems shall be installed by land developers for major resorts
and other developments along shorelines and sensitive higher inland areas, except
where connection to nearby treatment facilities is feasible and compatible with the
County's long-range plans, and in conformance with State and County requirements.
• 27.3 Immediate steps shall be taken to designate treatment plant sites, sewerage pump
station sites, and sewer easements according to the facility plans to facilitate their
acquisition.
• 27.4 The County shall obtain State and Federal funds to finance the construction of
proposed sewer systems and improve existing systems.
• 27.5 Plans for wastewater reclamation and reuse for irrigation and biosolids composting
(remaining solids from the treatment of wastewater are processed into a reusable
organic material) shall be utilized where topographically feasible and needed for
landscaping, agricultural purposes, or fire protection.
Wastewater and Environmental Quality Prioritization
• 27.6 Pollution shall be prevented, abated, and controlled at levels that will protect and
preserve public health and well-being through the enforcement of appropriate Federal,
State, and County standards.
• 27.7 Ensure municipal wastewater systems serve designated Urban Growth Areas
(UGA) with the capacity to accommodate projected population growth.
• 27.8 The Department of Environmental Management and the Planning Department shall
coordinate priorities before the adoption of any new wastewater development or land
use plans.
• 27.9 Prioritize developing a multipronged approach to wastewater infrastructure funding,
including proactively seeking grant funding for wastewater system expansion,
improvements, and new development.
• 27.10
Ensurewastewaterfeesreflectactualcostsforservice,maintenance,andfutureimprovements.
• 27.11 Ensure that wastewater systems and improvements are designed and functioning
to maximize system efficiencies, prevent accidental leaks or spills, and provide sanitary,
reliable wastewater treatment that is not negatively impacting natural resources.
One Water-Recycled Water Expansion
• 27.12
Striveforani nteg rated a pp roachtostormwate ran dwastewate r,andwaterresou rcemanageme
nt that is comprehensive and as efficient as possible.
• 27.13 Encourageon-sitewaterreusesolutionsforlargedevelopments.
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 137
27.14 Encourageandincentivizethecollectionofrainfallfornon-potableuse.
27.15 PrioritizetheuseofgraywaterinareasconnectedtoCountywaterandnotconnectedtoCounty
wastewater.
Actions
Wastewater and Environmental Quality Prioritization
• 27.a Prioritize areas where on-site wastewater treatment should be converted to sewer
and establish financial tools such as improvement districts to aid in implementation.
• 27.b Prioritize areas where wastewater treatment facilities are necessary to facilitate
future growth and utilize financing tools such as community facilities district (CFD) or tax
increment financing (TIF) to aid in implementation.
• 27.c Review, assess, and amend Codes relating to sewer connection requirements to
ensure wastewater issues and requirements are addressed in a consistent, sustainable,
and socially equitable way.
• 27.d Develop a wastewater master plan with a clear prioritization method for wastewater
system expansions and improvements based on criteria involving land use, projected
growth, social equity, and environmental factors.
• 27.e Develop plans to improve, connect, or develop new wastewater systems in
unsewered urban coastal communities.
• 27.f Perform a study to assess individual wastewater systems (IWS) in unsewered
urban growth areas to assess the rate of failures/negative impacts, determine rates of
large capacity cesspools still in use, and develop plans to improve, connect, or develop
new wastewater systems for unsewered urban communities.
• 27.g Proactively seek opportunities for public-private partnerships for wastewater
collection and treatment development.
• 27.h Facilitate the use of infrastructure improvement districts and other types of
localized funding mechanisms to fund improvements.
• 27.i Streamline the sewer connection loan program.
• 27.j Develop wastewater cost valuation in service fees (similar to the water model fee
structure).
• 27.k Develop a criteria-based infrastructure prioritization tool to develop new or expand
existing municipal wastewater systems. Base these priority areas on designated urban
growth boundaries, urban zoning and density, population trends and anticipated growth,
health/safety, and environmental factors.
• 27.1 Implement innovative wastewater systems at a cost-effective scale for small
communities.
• 27.m Amend the County Code, Section 21-26-1(a) requiring "all sewer extensions shall
be approved by resolution of the County council" to read, "all sewer extensions outside
of Urban Growth Areas shall be approved by resolution of the County council."
REFERRING AGAIN TO CONCERNS THAT THIS IS AN UNFEASIBLE COST TO REGULAR
HOUSEHOLDS. THIS IS A VERY CONCERNING POLICY DIRECTIVE AND AS
ACKNOWLEDGED HERE, MORE STUDIES WOULD BE REQUIRED PRIOR TO
ADMINISTERING SUCH POLICIES.. SO WHY ARE WE SEEING THIS EMPHASIS IN THE
GENERAL PLAN ?
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 138
• 27.n In collaboration with the DOH Wastewater Branch, reevaluate and clarify the
requirements set forth in Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR), Section 11-62-31.1(a) (1)
(B) and amend County sewer requirements accordingly to accommodate needed
housing units.
• 27.o Collaborate with the DOH to advance progressive wastewater technology and
regulations.
One Water-Recycled Water Expansion
• 27.p In collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, develop a water resource
strategy for efficient agricultural water use and reuse.
• 27.q Install non-potable systems, such as reclaimed wastewater, brackish groundwater,
and untreated surface water in proximity to priority UGAs for non-potable water uses.
• 27.r Conduct supply and demand studies to determine a level of service for non-potable
water needs.
• 27.s Facilitate greywater reuse systems through code amendments and through
partnering with DOH for regulatory changes and incentives.
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 139
4.3.5 Stormwater Infiltration and Green
Infrastructure
Stormwater management and the implementation of green infrastructure are critical elements of
the General Plan for their vital role in sustainability on Hawaii Island. As an island ecosystem
with limited freshwater resources and vulnerable coastal areas, managing stormwater effectively
and integrating green infrastructure practices are essential for preserving our water resources
and ensuring environmental sustainability.
Stormwater refers to the runoff from precipitation that flows over land surfaces, eventually
entering water bodies such as streams, rivers, and oceans. Stormwater is a crucial element of
the island's overall water landscape. While precipitation may be an obvious contributor to
stormwater, all the phases of the hydrologic cycle are related to stormwater and are influenced
by public utility decisions made in the built environment. Precipitation and surface runoff are
often the phases of the hydrologic cycle that people recognize as stormwater, whereas
evaporation, transpiration, and condensation are not as easily observed processes.
Uncontrolled stormwater runoff can lead to various detrimental effects on water resources and
ecosystems. Polluted runoff, also known as nonpoint source pollution, from agriculture, urban
development, forestry, recreational boating, marinas, and hydromodification activities is the
leading cause of water pollution in waters across the country and in Hawaii. Uncontrolled
stormwater runoff can also lead to localized flooding, causing damage to infrastructure, property,
and even loss of life. Implementing stormwater management strategies helps to control the flow
of stormwater, reducing the risk of flooding and associated hazards. Moreover, excessive
stormwater runoff can cause soil erosion, leading to the loss of fertile topsoil, sedimentation in
water bodies, and degradation of natural habitats. Proper stormwater management practices,
including erosion control measures,
help minimize erosion and preserve the island's natural resources.
Stormwater is a prime example of the unavoidable connections that exist between the built
environment and the natural environment. Increasing the opportunities for infiltration and
transpiration can reduce the amount of evaporation that surface runoff requires. The social,
environmental, and economic impacts of stormwater infrastructure have meaningful implications
for our overall island sustainability as water is one of the most precious resources.
Point and Nonpoint Source Pollution
Engineering efficiency in conveying stormwater runoff using impervious surfaces (e.g., paved
swales, channelized streams) must be balanced against environmental considerations. If the
drainage is directed to streams, excessive freshwater volumes and sediment loads may impact
coastal water resources (e.g., degrade water quality and smother coral reefs). If the drainage is
directed to injection wells, more studies are needed to determine the impact of storm runoff on
groundwater quality. Sediment basins, wetlands, or less impervious methods of conveyance
(e.g., grass swales) should be considered where feasible to reduce nonpoint source pollution of
the coastal waters from stormwater runoff and filter infiltrating water.
Green infrastructure refers to the network of natural or engineered features that manage
stormwater while providing additional benefits to the environment and community. Such features
may include rain gardens, permeable pavement, bioswales, and vegetated buffers. Green
infrastructure is crucial for stormwater management, as it captures and absorbs runoff, reducing
the volume and rate of runoff. By mimicking natural hydrological processes like sediment
filtration and bioremediation, it helps to recharge groundwater, replenish streams, and
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 140
reduce stress on our water resources during periods of heavy rainfall.
CONCERN: HERE AT LEAST WE SEE REFERENCES TO BIOREMEDIATION. WHY IS THIS
`ACCEPTABLE' AS A STRATEGY WHERE TREATMENT OF WATER RUN OFF IS
CONCERNED BUT NEVER ENTERTAINED IN THE MATTER OF RAW SEWAGE
TREATMENT (A `SOLUTION' AND POLICY DIRECTIVE HERE WHICH THREATENS TO BE
COST PROHIBITIVE TO MANY HOUSEHOLDS? )
By retaining and infiltrating stormwater, green infrastructure reduces the reliance on freshwater
sources for irrigation, thus conserving water resources. This is particularly important for our
island communities where freshwater availability is limited. Green infrastructure features may
also provide habitats for native plants and wildlife. They contribute to biodiversity conservation
and help restore and enhance Hawaii Island's natural ecosystems. Green infrastructure plays a
key part in mitigating the impacts of climate change by reducing the urban heat island effect,
moderating temperatures, and increasing resilience to extreme weather events. These
measures align with the County's sustainability goals and efforts to adapt to climate change.
4.3 Public Utilities I County of Hawaii General Plan 141
Page 166
34.15 Encourage the expansion of digital access and equity through the resilient buildout of
broadband infrastructure and facilities. Does this take into account the safety of 5G+? Is this to
facilitate surveillance of citizens in the future?
Page167
34.a Implement a Safe Route to School (SR2S) program for all schools. Will surveillance be
implemented to ensure safety?
Page169
4.4.6 Recreation
Housing developers should not bear a disproportionate burden, or be forced to contribute more
than their fair share, as inequitable requirements could deter needed housing development. This
proviso seems to favor developers.
Page171
35.a Provide funding for planning and acquisition,if necessary, of key corridor segments after
corridor-zone plans are adopted. Does this preclude the rezoning and acquisition of private
property?
35.k Maintain an on-going program of identification, designation, and acquisition of areas with
existing or potential recreational resources, such as land with sandy beaches and other prime
areas for shoreline recreation in collaboration with government, private and non profit agencies,
and other stakeholders. Please include private property owners in your definition of
stakeholders.
Page 175
4.4.7 Encouraging the establishment of farmers' markets, community gardens, and a range of
agricultural activities can promote local food production and improve access to fresh nutritious
food. Please include home gardens.
Page 177
36.g Support the distribution of telehealth support services, particularly to unserved and
underserved communities. Encourage instead person to person contact.
36.j Amend the County Code to designate a lead agency for coordinating and responding to
outbreaks of life-threatening, highly communicable diseases pursuant to the DOH direction.
While ensuring the statues of the Nuremberg Code are observed.
Page 179
4.5.1 Blueprint for the creation of a 15 minute island, clustering us together in "a centralized,
higher-density urban infill, supported by nearby, accessible public and private services and
facilities."
Page 181
Under Housing Challenges Targets: "Homeownership for investment purposes that are kept
vacant or used for transient accommodation rentals reduces available stock for long term
resident ownership and rental opportunities."
Prohibits and discourages the rights of private ownership.
Page182
37.6 Vacant lands in the urban growth boundary (UBG) should be prioritized for residential and
supportive uses before additional agricultural lands outside the UBG are converted into urban
uses.
With the consent of property owner should be included.
Page183
38.1 Enable data-driven research to support and maintain a housing inventory program that
monitors existing housing.
38.a Perform existing housing inventory data analysis to identify structural conditions and needs
for rehabilitation or demotion.
Both justify the necessity of more surveillance of the community. 38.a also precludes the private
property owner's rights and opinions. Take this out or revise.
Page184
39.5 Allow for and apply property tax and land use regulations to incentivize private property
owners to provide affordable housing units in mix-use and urban areas and to discentivize the
land banking of unimproved properties.
In other words land use regulations and property tax hikes will be weaponized against the
private property owner. TAke this out or revise/
Page185
Table 40: Additional Infrastructure - Provide adequate broadband without invading people's
privacy.
Ensuring future surveillance capabilities?
Page188
40.8 Require all County Departments to collaborate with the County Office of Sustainability,
Climate, Equity, and Resilience (OSCER) as the lead agency to ensure the integration of the
County's goals of sustainability, climate resilience, and equity into all county operations and
planning initiatives.
To whom does OSCER answer? Who's watching the watchdog?
THIS ORGANIZATION WAS ESTABLISHED IN 2023. IT WAS PRESENTED TO THE PUBLIC
AS AN AGENCY THAT COULD ACCEPT GRANT FUNDS FROM GOVERNMENT AND NON
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES AND PRIVATE FOUNDATIONS.
IT WAS NEVER SUPPOSED TO BE GRANTED EXTRA POWERS AS AN ADMUNISTRATIVE
ARM OF THE COUNTY GOVERNMENT. WE SPECIFICALLY OBJECT TO THE LANGUAGE
`REQUIRING' `ALL COUNTY DEPARTMENTS' TO COLLABORATE WITH THE OSCER.
THE COUNTY'S `GOALS' OF sustainability, climate resilience, and equity HAVE NOT BEEN
ADEQUATELY DEBATED IN OUR COMMUNITY . WE CHALLENGE THE SUGGESTION THAT
THERE IS CONSENSUS ON THIS MATTER AND WE SPECIFICALLY CHALLENGE THE
OSCER `AGENCY' TO PROVIDE EVIDENCE OF THE ABOVE. WE SPECIFICALLY
CHALLENGE THE PLANNING DIRECTOR AND THE LEGISLATURE TO STAGE A FULL
PUBLIC REVIEW OF BOTH SETS OF DATA AND BOTH ARGUMENTS THAT THERE IS A
CLIMATE CRISIS CAUSED BY CARBON
THE `Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity, and Resilience (OSCER)' BEGINS WITH A
FLAWED AND DISPUTED PREMISE THAT THERE IS A CLIMATE `CRISIS' AND THAT THE
OTHER 3 `PILLARS' OF THE ORGANIZATION (SUSTAINABILITY, EQUITY AND
RESILLIENCE) BELONG TOGETHER AS PART OF A `SOLUTION.'
WHAT IS FLAWED ABOUT THE BUZZ WORD `SUSTAINABILITY' IS THAT THIS WORD
LEADS THE IDENTICAL AGENDAS OF CONTROLLING LAND USE, WATER RIGHTS,
ACCESS TO PUBLIC SPACE, THE RIGHT TO TRAVEL, FARMING AND PASTURING OF
ANIMALS AND FOOD SECURITY. THESE BUZZWORDS ARE COMING FROM WORLD
ECONOMIC FORUM AND THE UNITED NATIONS. ALL OF THESE ORGANIZATIONS PLUS
THE BILL AND MELINDA GATES FOUNDATION AND `NET ZERO' PROMOTE A
DANGEROUS AGENDA OF OVERRIDING SOVEREIGN HOME RULE LOCAL COUNTIES
AND STATES AND REPLACING WITH `GLOBAL AGENDAS' WHICH ARE BRINGING IN
`COMMUNIST' VALUES AND SYSTEMS OF PROPERTY ACQUISITION AND DESTRUCTION
OF SMALL BUSINESS AND THE CORPORATIZATION OF PUBLIC ASSETS.
WHAT IS FLAWED ABOUT THE BUZZ WORD `EQUITY' IS THAT IT IS QUICKLY BECOMING
A WAY OF WAVING ON A COMMUNIST STYLE OF ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT
AND BUSINESS WHICH PROMOTES LARGER PORTION OF THE POPULATION BEING ON
WELFARE AND DIVERSITY HIRE PRACTICES THAT PROMOTE MEDIOCRITY AND NOT
MERITOCRACY.
THE WORD `RESILIENCE' ALSO HAS COME TO BE ANOTHER `BUZZ WORD' THAT IS A
RATIONALE FOR THE CATCH PHRASE `BUILD BACK BETTER' AND THE IDEA THAT MORE
RIGOROUS BUILDING CODES, MORE RESTRICTIONS AND MORE BUILDING COSTS AND
INSURANCE COSTS WILL FOLLOW IN THE AFTERMATH OF EACH `DISASTER.'
ELSEWHERE IN THIS DOCUMENT THERE WAS A CHALLENGE TO THE PREMISE THAT
THE RECENT FIRE IN LAHAINA WAS `NORMAL' AND THAT THE RESULTING LOCKDOWNS
AND FAILURE OF GREEN ADMINISTRATION TO SUPPORT HOUSEHOLDS TO REBUILD
ARE ALSO `NORMAL.' TO THE CONTRARY, WHAT WE HAVE SEEN IN LAHAINA FOR THE
PAST 13 MONTHS EXEMPLIFIES THE WAY THAT THE WORD `RESILIENCE' HAS COME TO
MEAN `CONTROL OF A POPULATION AFTER A DISASTER TO THE POINT THAT MANY
WILL BE DISPLACED AND WILL BE FORCED TO LEAVE THE AREA, FINDING NO WAY TO
REBUILD AND RESTORE THEIR LIVES AND LIVELIHOOODS.'
Page194
Resulting in Longer Commutes: There are notable mismatches between locations of high
population and job centers.
Further justification for clustering in population centers. Further policy directive to justify
curtailing personal independent transportation options. This again is objectionable and shows
contempt for a fundamental constitutional right and as such has no place in a policy document
published by this County Administration.
Page196
Table 43:Economic Opportunities /General
Increase broadband infrastructure to provide opportunities for participation in the digital
economy while allowing for other economic alternatives.
CBDC's here we come/
Page 206
46.i Partner with government, private and non profit agencies, communities, and other
stakeholders for carrying capacity studies of fisheries and the establishment of State
community-based subsistence fishing areas.
More restrictions on fishing rights. Oddly in 5.3 Agriculture and Food Systems there is no
mention at all of hunting and gathering.
Page 210
Wahi Pana
Need assurances our wahi pana and other natural assets will be protected from
commodification and collateralization.
Page 213
49.1 [Encourage the] [i]ntegrat[ion] [of] `aina- place-based values
49.2 [Encourage] the accessibility
49.3 [Promote] a visitor industry
49.5 [Encourage] regenerative tourism efforts
49.6 [Foster] initiatives and improve[d] efforts
49.h and farmers, homeowners, and other residents to develop and support place-based
educational programs
COMMENT: FINALLY HERE IS A DIRECTIVE THAT SPEAKS TO SUPPORTING THE
EXISTING ECONOMY AND THE PEOPLE WHO ALREADY LIVE ON THIS ISLAND. THE
FACT THAT THIS IS SHOWING UP ON PAGE 214 SHOULD BE CONCERNING TO ANYONE
UNDERSTANDING THAT THIS DOCUMENT IS SUPPOSED TO GUIDE THE PRIORITIES OF
OUR COUNTY GOVERNMENT AND LEGISLATURE. THE OPENING SECTION OF THE
DOCUMENT SHOULD BE ABOUT SUPPORTING THE EXISTING CULTURE AND ECONOMY
OF THE ISLAND. THE CAPACITY TO SUPPORT AND HELP GROW IN THIS AREA WOULD
BE ALL
Page 215
6.1 para 2 presenting [residents a true voice] for the future of Hawaii Island.
1 [where citizens collaborate with the County to effect change consistent with plans developed
under this chapter.]
3 Ensure consistency among the General Plan and respective regional plans [What are
regional plans?]
4 set forth in the General Plan's [Should this be plural or possessive?]
5 Establish an implementation system that is based on county-wide, regional, and agency levels
[What are regional and agency levels?]
Page 216
Top para by promoting [economic] growth,
2nd para collaboration among various [residents]
" Key areas of focus include fostering [understanding of the role of government in]
ensuring community engagement and input, securing funding, and coordinating priorities.
Page217
6.2.1
Para 1 Community Development Plan Framework
During the General Plan Comprehensive Review process, existing community plans were used
to guide the CDP framework. From the adoption of the Kona, Puna, North and South Kohala
CDPs in 2008, Ka`u CDP in 2017, and Hamakua CDP in 2018, there has been much to learn
and grow from as we look to the future. The General Plan also benefited from years of collective
participation in CDP implementation efforts through regional committees that implement their
respective CDP. [NOTE: Hilo was not included in this CFP framework. Although there had been
Hilo meetings in the past that dealt with some issues contained in the General Plan, no
mechanism was put in place that paralleled the multi-year single-purpose work that was
undertaken in the other six districts.]
Para 2 To build on these lessons learned, future CDPs[, which it is hoped will include a CDP for
Hilo,] shall be drafted
The purpose of a CDP is threefold:
3. Provide a process for citizens to engage in civic dialogue [through open-forum townhalls
where vigorous question-answer format is primary, eliciting the priorities of the community.]
Page 218
6. Social Capital and Community Network Mapping
During the process of reviewing a Community Development Plan, instances where community
needs are not met may be identified. Examples of this may include a need for community
gathering spaces such as parks or recreation hubs. Community Development Plans may
identify such needs and outline a plan of action for community members and other [Hawaii
Island residents] to coordinate efforts, combine and collect resources, and connect public and
private sector agents to advocate for such enhancements to their community. [In the case of
Hilo, where a CDP was never initiated by the Planning Department, an examination of why this
was neglected must be addressed, for the purpose of getting input from this district even though
the General Plan may have been already implemented. This could be accomplished through
addendums to the General Plan at future dates.]
Page 224
6.4.3
Para 1 The General Plan is a comprehensive framework designed to guide [innovative]
development patterns, [and provide assistance toward] future opportunities and public
investments.
Para 3 The tables are intended to provide a clear and concise reference for agencies,
policymakers, communities, farmers, homeowners, and other residents
Page 225
Table 45
Climate change, carbon footprint, net zero,GHG emissions, green infrastructure projects,
climate adaptation
The above terms, taken from Table 45, derive from the United Nations Agenda 21 Sustainable
Development, inaugurated in 1992 at the United Nations Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro.
Residents of Hawaii Island have never had the opportunity to engage in discussions in every
town, using every venue, to discuss the entire subject of climate change. It is a foundational
subject, as it is the substrate upon which so much of the General Plan is predicated. It is
un-Democratic to simply take ideas from other places and cement them into the plans we make
for our own people, our own land, our own island, without engaging in an unhurried, full-blown
examination of this agenda, neighbor with neighbor. Until such time as this takes place, we must
place this draft of a General Plan on hold.
Table 46
Objectives
13. Increase the use of Smart Growth principles to focus development within designated urban
centers.
As above, SMART is an acronym taken from the World Economic Forum that pertains to
Internet-Of-Things technology. Its purpose is linkage of devices for the purpose of control and
monitoring. No island-wide discussion has taken place as to the merits of SMART GROWTH.
Again, it is a concept from far away, irreversible once implemented, without so much as a real
attempt to inform residents. How can a General Plan proceed on concepts alien to the people?
Table 47
21. [Engineer infrastructure] to reduce stormwater runoff.
Page 227
Table 48
25. Improve the efficiency and reliability, and sustainability of essential infrastructure systems.
28. Increase green infrastructure practices.
Example Indicators
Annual funding allocated for [efficient] infrastructure initiatives
Percentage of new development projects including [efficient] infrastructure elements
Table 49
Our communities are adequately served by sustainable and efficient public infrastructure
P232
6.4.4 1.a Seek [procedure] to support wetland identification and assessments.
1.j Identify partners and [S]upport a public awareness and education campaign to elevate
recognition of the value of urban trees as essential infrastructure.
3.b Create special (business) improvement districts to engage in environmental research,
restoration and maintenance, natural resource management, climate change or sea level rise
adaptation or other purposes to improve environmental conditions and provide community
benefit.
4.a [Seek Hawaii Island residents and groups] to maintain and steward the preservation of sites,
buildings, objects, and landscapes of significant cultural and historical importance.
4.c Support the identification of Heritage Landscapes, Corridors, Areas, and Centers.
Heritage designation is UNESCO. It is crucial that Hawaii Island maintain control of its lands and
natural resources, free of encumbrances of global organizations
4.h [Foment discussion among] government, private and nonprofit agencies, communities, and
other stakeholders farmers, homeowners, and other residents
4.i private and nonprofit agencies, communities, and other stakeholders farmers,
homeowners, and other residents
Table 54: Climate Change
[Delete Table 54: Climate Change has not been debated across Hawaii County in a systematic
way. Such a debate would entail townhall presentations by each side, allowing all the time
necessary to absorb the decades of information circulating through media and academia. At
some later time, these information-gathering events could then be followed by public open
debates. Hawaii Island residents at that juncture would then be ready to decide whether they
wished to premise all future growth on the notion of Climate Change, or reject it as unscientific.]
240
Table 56 Transportation Access and Mobility
20.e Adopt a Complete Streets ordinance. [Complete Streets derives from Agenda 21's SMART
Cities designation. It has nothing to do with residents of Hawaii Island, until such time as they
can be apprised of the overall design of Agenda 21, as it entails constricting traffic, expanding
bike lanes and bus routes, installing islands - many changes that may or may not be workable.
Hilo and Kona have very different requirements, and a cookie-cutter approach levels
differences. Just because it is recommended by a national or international association does not
mean it is suitable here. Again, it must be thoroughly discussed across the island before a
decision can be made.]
22.a Amend the County Code to incorporate Vision Zero safety principles and Complete Street
design principles. [Vision Zero, as stated above with Complete Streets, is an internationally
utilized approach to pedestrian safety that first needs a full discussion here to see to what extent
it is workable, if at all.]
243-255
27.d social equity, [No relevance to this category]
27.g Proactively seek opportunities for [strategies] for wastewater collection and treatment
development.
28.c Update the DPW Storm Drainage Standards to reflect current data and to incorporate
strategies and standards of green infrastructure and low impact development.
28.f Create a green infrastructure dedication standard.
28.1 Identify County parks and recreation, rights-of-way, and other County owned sites for green
infrastructure demonstration projects
29.a Partner with government, private and nonprofit agencies, communities, farmers,
homeowners, and other residents for the research and development of alternative/renewable
energy resources.
30.d Collaborate with government, private and nonprofit agencies, communities and other
[Hawaii Island residents]
30.i [Encourage private] funding for broadband initiatives and deployments.
30.m Foster [private investments] to support the development and expansion of broadband
infrastructure,
32.c Review county lighting and landscaping ordinances to implement CPTED. CPTED is a
component of a SMART City that watches, listens, announces, tracks, records. It is a creation of
Agenda 21 and the WEF and the UN. It must be rejected by the residents of Hawaii Island
unless/until it is thoroughly discussed and debated.
32.p This point to be deleted
[ In light of the controversy in the aftermath of the Lahaina fire, to be formulating a
redevelopment plan, IN ADVANCE of an incident, creates a climate of distrust and anger. This
subject must be handled very carefully in discussions with groups and individuals across the
island.]
35.c Partner with government, private and nonprofit agencies, farmers, homeowners, and other
residents
35.d Partner with government, private and nonprofit agencies, farmers, homeowners, and other
residents
35.i government, private and nonprofit agencies, farmers, homeowners, and other residents
35.k private and nonprofit agencies, farmers, homeowners, and other residents
36.d communities, and other farmers, homeowners, and other residents
36.f communities, and other farmers, homeowners, and other residents
Page 254
45A Partner with government (e.g., DOT, DBEDT, etc.), private and nonprofit agencies,
communities, farmers, homeowners, and other residents to monitor
45.1 Partner with government, private and nonprofit agencies (e.g., business associations,
realtors, chambers of commerce, etc.), communities, farmers, homeowners, and other
residents
45.m expand the research and development industry for [innovative] economic development.
46.i private and nonprofit agencies, communities, farmers, homeowners, and other residents