2007-08-13 Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission Minutes

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monthly basis under FOP, of which they are working with many people, however through the PCPP, an organization is required to be a 501(c)(3) or non - profit status. She then mentioned that P &R has partnered with only two groups, Cooper Center in Volcano, and Kama`aina United to Preserve the Aina (KUPA) for the Ho`okena Beach Park and mentioned that they are now working with Ka`u Preservation for Honu`apo. Mr. Gilmartin questioned whether the 501(c)(3) needs to be specific to the park in regards to Honuapo. Ms. Engelhard replied yes and stated that in the case of KUPA, which started out as part of Ka`u Preservation, the County does not want to be tied into something that has political ramifications. Ms. Schuster then stated that in the Commission's duties to identify funding sources primarily for purchase and not necessarily management, asked whether in terms of managing the lands, does concessions at County parks work. Ms. Engelhard replied that they only have one at this time, which is KUPA, a local organization who checks the camping permits and serves as the "Aloha Patrol" for Ho`okena Beach Park. They have been in place since June 1, 2007 and replaced Freeman Guards as of August 1, 2007, and so far there has been no problems. Mr. Gilmartin asked how personal liability is managed in a partnership. Ms. Engelhard replied that most of the groups if under a 501(c)(3) will have a Board that requires insurance protection, however, COH P &R will accept "some" responsibility depending on the situation. Mr. Kaneshiro questioned how the property is going to be maintained after purchase under the 2 percent rule. Ms. Engelhard suggested that since most of the lands requested are zoned Conservation, the State needs to take a more active role by taking the lands after it's purchased. Should the County keep the lands, money for additional staffing and management would be needed. Mr. Flores then asked whether COH P &R is pursuing the ranger program. Ms. Engelhard replied that she's not sure if COH P &R will be responsible, as the Waipio program is currently run by "Friends of the Future" which is a local 501(c)(3) organization. Mr. Flores questioned if COH P &R would be involved in the maintenance of trails or access easements. Ms. Engelhard stated that it is not in their realm of responsibility nor are they regularly staffed; however noted that County Planning Department would be responsible for shoreline access. Ms. Garcia asked if there are any State programs similar to the PCPP. Ms. Engelhard mentioned that the State has more expertise in this area. Mr. Yada further added that the State has an "Adopt -A- Park" program. Mr. Kaneshiro then asked if it would be wise to appropriate monies under the 2 % fund for maintenance of lands acquired. Ms. Schuster added that by doing this it may help to leverage funds from other sources. Ms. Engelhard further stated that it would be helpful for people to know that even if their volunteering, there are funds available. M