2010-01-11 Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission Minutes

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Mr. Komata asked Mr. Whitt if they're subject to the "yellowbook appraisal." Mr. Whitt replied no longer, it just has to be according to the USPA (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal). Mr. Sensenig replied no that it's not required. Mr. Flores thanked them both for their time. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion: Commissioner Markovich moved for the approval of the minutes of December 14, 2009. Seconded by Commissioner Garcia; all members voted aye, motion carried. DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE REPORT Mr. Van Bergen reported that the County is in escrow for the acquisition of 1,100 acres in Kaiholena North and the scheduled closing date is 1/28. Ms. Garcia asked how much are we using from the 2% fund. Mr. Van Bergen replied 6,541,000.00 plus closing costs. At this time, the County is still talking to the owners of Kaiholena South; however he doesn't think that we can afford all three parcels. In regards to Pa`o`o, we are trying to put a deal together since the landowner wants to close sooner and we won't get our matching funds until June or July. He noted that Mr. Olson accepted the County's offer of 3.9 million for the three parcels in Kawa. We are currently working with both the State and Federal in submitting the necessary paperwork to obtain the grant monies for the Kawa purchase. The acquisition cost of Lapakahi will be covered 100% with State and Federal grant monies thanks to The Trust for Public Lands for taking the lead. The County will be ordering an appraisal for the Kingman properties in Kona as we are "exploring" options and thinking about initially acquiring two of the three parcels which are closer to the nearby County parks. He concluded by saying that the Mayor received the 2009 Annual Report and his recommendations will be submitted to the County Council within sixty days. OFFICE OF THE CORPORATION COUNSEL'S REPORT Ms. Self reported that on 2/21 there will be an official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the County of Hawaii, State Na Ala Hele and National Park Service (NPS) for the Ala Kahakai trail system. Since the NPS has already created a 501(c)(3), they will be taking over management and maintenance of the trail areas. NPS also has a contract with the University of Hawaii to create a database that will allow the County, State and Federal to work from and at the same time access information. In addition the signage for the trail system will also be handled by the community groups in Kohala. -3-