2006-04-24 Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission Minutes (Hilo Mtg)

Home

the public is allowed access, the public should first take the hunting classes before gaining entrance onto this Hoku`ula parcel. Ms. Willie indicated that she took this class herself and found it to be very informative. Ms. Willie's memo requests that development on this parcel be prohibited. Commissioner Springer informed Ms.Willie that this Commission is not in the capacity to accomplish this request and informed Ms. Willie that Peter Young of the Department of Land and Natural Resources is exploring the idea of providing buffers around water shed in light of recent damage. Commissioner Springer suggested that Ms. Willie write a letter to the Department of Land and Natural Resources regarding her concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Vice Chair Hannah Springer moved for approval of the minutes of March 31, 2006 regular session and reconvened on April 3, 2006, seconded by Commissioner Kenneth Kaneshiro and carried unanimously by voice vote. NEW BUSINESS Mayor Harry Kim thanked the commissioners for all of their hard work and commitment to their task. Mayor Kim met with his department heads and asked them to submit reports with their comments regarding the priority list. Mayor Kim indicated that this list will be a "guiding light for us" and expressed that these lands are very special to our heritage. Mayor Kim favors partnerships with the State, Federal and private land owners to acquire special lands for Hawai`i's people. Mayor Kim informed the Commissioners that the County is currently working with Kamehameha Schools regarding the beachfront area in Waipio Valley. Mayor Kim met with the taro farmers, the business people, surfers, etc on how to protect this special area and also provide public access. Mayor Kim also expressed his agreement with the Commissioners in the number one priority parcel, Kawa`a Bay. Mayor Kim indicated he has 60 days to present this list to the County Council. Mayor Kim indicated that he would provide a rationale for his comments regarding each of the parcels provided. If the parcel is already protected, then it would get a lower priority compare to those properties that are not protected and requires a higher priority. It will be very important that the public understand his administration's reasoning when the list is given to the County Council. ANNOUNCEMENTS The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 8, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. at the Department of Liquor Control, Conference Room, 75 -5722 Hanama Place, Suite 1107, Kailua -Kona, Hawaii 96740. 2