2007-07-09 Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission Minutes

Home

Ms. Springer then questioned the ladder in the picture and whether it's in active use. The question was deferred to Mr. Crosson, who replied that the ladder is fairly new and made of aluminum while the previous ladder was made of wood. Ms. Springer stated that at this time the Commission is preparing their list and report for this year and that they may need to come back to obtain more information when addressing public access in regards to multiple ownership. Ms. Chang welcomed the opportunity to provide additional information, however did emphasize that time is of the essence since some properties are currently on the market to be sold. Mr. Flores asked whether there was a 40 -foot setback at the base or at the top of the cliff for shoreline access. Ms. Chang replied that in regards to cliffs, the County Planning Department establishes the certified shoreline 40 -feet from the base of the cliff, however, it will most likely be determined that the edge of cliff will be the beginning measuring point for the 40 -foot shoreline setback. Ms. Chang also noted that depending on the physical conditions of each property, which is handled on a case by case basis, the 40 -foot setback could be increased; however the trails and easements will need to be pieced together. Mr. Campbell then asked whether the trails can be shown to be historically used. Ms. Chang then stressed on the need to hire an abstractor who would be able to research this information in maps dating back to the 1800's. Mr. Kaneshiro then mentioned that there is a need for the local people to obtain public access for fishing purposes in areas around Hawaii island. Ms. Springer then questioned Ms. Self as to whether an abstractor could be hired to do work in regards to public access issues for the Commission. Ms. Self then deferred to Mr. Yada who replied that additional funds would have to be incorporated into the budget and approved. Ms. Springer did stress that the Commission set aside time in the future to discuss strategic planning for public access. Mr. Gilmartin commented that it should be in general, thereby the Commission may not need to purchase as much lands and instead focus on acquiring public access easements. Ms. Garcia suggested working directly with DLNR on possibly taking over management of portions of the road for public access. Ms. Chang replied that in speaking with Land Division to request that they include a clause in the State leases noting that the lessee do not block public access to the shoreline in the Hamakua area, DLNR questioned as to whether it was a portion of a trail and noted that nothing was there and referred her to the County to possibly condemn and acquire the lands. Mr. Yada then commented that most of the State lands in the Hamakua area are on a month -to- month basis for pasture purposes and noted that the State has the right to withdraw property at any time from their leases and/or permits. He also suggested that DLNR could come together with Kamehameha Schools and the County of Hawaii on a plan with the community, however stressing that the lack of resources and liability issues would need to be resolved. -5-