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January 27, 2026 Public Access. Open Space, and Natural Resource Preservation Commission (PONC) County of Hawaii Re: Letter of:Support for Haina Makai ('I'MK: 3-4-5-002-081-0000) Aloha Members of the Commission, On behalf of the 1-lonoka`a Heritage Center. I am writing to express strong support for the suggested acquisition of the coastal property referred to as Haina Makai, located below Honoka'a in the ahupua`a of Haina. This 38-acre parcel represents a rare and meaningful opportunity to secure lasting public benefit along the Hamakua coastline through the County's Public Access,Open space,and Natural Resource Preservation program. The Honoka`a Heritage Center works year-round to preserve and share the cultural and historic heritage of north 1-lawai`i. From this perspective, Haina Makai holds deep significance not only for its natural value, but also for its connection to generations of Hamakua families who have long relied on this coastline for fishing, gathering,and recreation. Public access to the ocean cliffs in this region has become increasingly limited over time,and the protection of one of the few remaining access points is of great importance to the community. This property also offers an exceptional opportunity for place-based education and long-term stewardship through community partnerships. The vision for restoring sections of the land through native reforestation and culturally guided food-forest practices. with engagement from local schools and cultural practitioners. reflects the type of forward-looking public investment that strengthens both environmental and community resilience. While much of the physical cultural landscape has been altered through plantation-era use, the broader historical context of the surrounding area remains significant and deserving of recognition. The Honoka'a I leritage Center is enthusiastic about supporting this effort through historical research,documentation,and oral history work that helps situate 1 laina Makai within the larger story of 1-lamakua and its people. Thank you for your consideration of this important suggested acquisition. Protecting Haina Makai would represent a lasting commitment to public coastal access,community education, and the preservation of a treasured Hamakua resource for generations to come. With appreciation, Nicole Garcia Executive Director Honoka'a Heritage Center Sugg.26-03