Comm 25-022 re Sugg. 25-07 - Laserfiche WebLink

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WHEREAS, a new black sand beach has accreted near Kumukahi, accessible only by traversing private property near unmarked cemeteries and hazardous for recreational ocean entry, highlighting the need for area management and stewardship in preparation of road restoration as Kapoho is one of a very few ocean access points in Puna; and WHEREAS, a collaborative approach involving the County, State, direct lineal descendants, community stakeholders and organizations with expertise in cultural preservation and `aina stewardship, and Puna residents is essential to ensuring the management and stewardship of Kumukahi that safeguards iwi kupuna and cultural features,preserves the natural environment, ensures access for lawai`a subsistence lifestyle, and fosters sustainable economic and workforce development for direct lineal descendants and area residents; and WHEREAS,Ho`oulu Lahui, a 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization founded in Puna in 1995 for the purpose of awakening Hawaiian culture,values,beliefs,and lifestyle in partnership with the community to achieve unity,harmony, and total well-being, has agreed to provide immediate and long-term support through community engagement and project management; now, therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI`I that the iwi kupuna and other cultural and historical features at Kumukahi be preserved'and protected to honor the significance of this site. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that immediate and long-term measures be taken to limit exposure to known burial sites and cultural features. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the County Planning Department continue to convene all relevant government agencies and community stakeholders to facilitate the protection and preservation of iwi kupuna, and foster the management and stewardship of Kumukahi with the full participation of all parties. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that community-based solutions, area management, and stewardship initiatives be rooted in cultural and historical practices, and involve as well as empower direct lineal descendants and resident stakeholders to be part of planning and implementation. 2