Comm 25-027 re Sugg. 25-07 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Conan.2�)-U2 Communication No. 2025-07 June 26,2025 Aloha PONC Commissioners: On behalf of the Puna Community Development Plan(CDP)Action Committee,we write in strong support of the proposed public acquisition and consolidation of 11 parcels— encompassing approximately 2,000 acres—located in the ahupua`a of Kula at Kumukahi, in the Puna District.This effort is vital to the long-term protection of one of Hawai`i's most culturally, ecologically, and historically significant wahi pana and aligns closely with the goals of the Puna CDP. We are pleased to note in the application,that all landowners of the 11 parcels have been consulted and have provided letters of support, indicating their willingness to sell their properties for the purpose of conservation and cultural preservation through the PONC process.This rare alignment of Government,non-profit and community with landowner cooperation,presents a unique opportunity for the County to take decisive and impactful action. Two non-profits Ho'oulu Lahui, a well-established 30 year non-profit,founded on the protection and education of our wahi pana and the Kuamo'o Legacy Foundation have committed to taking the lead in the preservation and management of the area. Cultural and Historical Preservation Kumukahi is a wahi pana of immense cultural and spiritual significance.Traditionally recognized as the first place the sun touches Hawaii each day and as a sacred leina (spiritual transition point), it is closely tied to the arrival of Pele and serves as a wahi ilina (burial site)for generations of kupuna. The Puna CDP prioritizes the protection of such sites: 2.1.1 Goals o a. Structures and cultural sites that are significant to Puna's history and cultural traditions are preserved. _ The acquisition will enable implementation of a Burial Treatment Plan,ensuring the respectful care of iwi kupuna,and provide permanent access for lineal and cultural descendants to maintain ceremonial and traditional practices. Environmental Protection and Stewardship The area supports endangered and native species such as the Hawaiian petrel(`Ua`u), Hawaiian hoary bat(`Ope`ape`a), and native coastal plants and trees.The parcels' consolidation supports: 2.1.1 Goals o e.The native forests of Puna are revered as part of the native culture and are provided with permanent protection from degradation and loss. A unified approach will allow for comprehensive ecological restoration, invasive species management, and the protection of fragile habitats.