2008-06-17 Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission Minutes

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scoring is reflective on who prepared it and how good the suggestion forms are and not necessarily how good a property is. As an example, Mr. Yada noted that the Legacy Land Commission reviews all applications and votes on the "Top 5" properties in terms of the recommendations. This would be a more practical way of assessment as the "Top 5" will be based on real possibilities and alternatives based on funding opportunities and willingness by the landowner to sell. Mr. Gilmartin thinks it's a good idea since it necessitates the Commission to visit the properties. Mr. Yada added that it makes it more effective and if a landowner is not willing to sell, then why would they even consider it. Ms. Self concluded that the Commission is in the best position to make the decision for ranking as they represent the public. Ms. Springer asked if they took this approach would they have to amend their report. Ms. Self replied that they will need to explain in their report how they came to that decision and describe the process. Mr. Yada suggested that if the Commission considers changing their approach in creating the list based on the "Top 5" then they won't run into problems with landowners who are unwilling to sell. Mr. Gilmartin commented that he doesn't see how this changes the possibility of a property not available to sell to remain on the list. Ms. Self replied that it wouldn't rank as high because it's not for sale. Ms. Self added on a legal note that if they insist on keeping a property on the list that is not for sale, they must let the Mayor and the Council know so that they don't waste their time on pursuing a property that's not available. Ms. Springer noted that the Commission will continue discussion on these items at the next meeting. • Continue discussing scheduling and strategies for 2008, including recommended easements from 2007 suggestion forms. (The Commissioners went into discussion regarding scheduling their calendar) Ms. Springer confirmed that in August, the Commission will be evaluating the forms and reviewing the past list and in September discuss the possibility of site visits. They will write the report in October, review and edit in November and submit to the Mayor in December. She added that sometime in January 2009, they can hold public meetings in West Hawaii and East Hawaii and submit an article and /or press release in the newspapers regarding the public meetings.