2012-07-09 Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission Minutes (2)

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it listed on the MLS for sale noting that the zoning is pending. Ms. Byrne -Baber asked if it's listed. Ms. Ford replied yes, it's listed for about 1.2 million for all three parcels, 72.178 acres. Ms. Matsumura thanked Ms. Ford. STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS TONI WITHINGTON Ms. Toni Withington introduced herself to the Commission and stated that she's her to represent five groups in North Kohala. There is a major long term (40 year) effort in North Kohala to preserve the last long stretch of accessible, un- developed coastline which is in danger, whether it be for sale or in jeopardy of development. She stated that she is here to answer any questions that the Commission may have and briefly update them on some of the recent changes. In addition to the full support of the North Kohala Community Development Plan (CDP), the CDP Action Committee and the North Kohala Access Group, they have now formed a non - profit group, Kohala Lihikai, which is dedicated to the stewardship and management of lands either by public or non - profit. They are already working on the acquisition of two coastal properties in North Kohala. The five groups that she's been working with have been able to acquire lands without using County funds, Lapakahi and Kauhola Point. She stated that they are actively seeking funds from other sources and just by having the properties on the list helps a lot. She thanked the Commission for all their work and pledged her support and help in any way she can. Mr. Hirakami asked if the public have been using Kaiholena and Pa`o`o. Ms. Withington replied yes, it is heavily used by the public for recreational purposes and numerous community groups also go down to do clean -up and coastal restoration. Ms. Moon asked for clarification on Halelua since it's a new property submitted this year. Ms. Withington told her that it is the border between Kauhola Point and Hapu`u to Kapanai`a Corridor and that they may possibly be applying for Legacy Land Grant monies this year. DEBBIE WARD Ms. Debbie Ward thanked Mr. Van Bergen and Ms. Kelepolo for their work on acquiring the Kahuku parcel and stated that she is here speaking on behalf of the Sierra Club in support of Waikaku`u whether acquisition be through a conservation easement or fee purchase. She talked about the huge `Ohi`a trees that are about 6 feet in diameter and over 100 feet tall and the large Kopiko trees, which normally don't get very tall. In addition, Hapu`u Kane, Hapu`u I`i and `Ala`ala`wainui is very prevalent and `Ie`ie dominate all through the `Ohi`a trees as alien species are extremely sparsely present. The presence of native birds (`Apapane, `Amakihi, `Elepaio) can also be heard throughout the forest and evidence of `Io nesting and `Ope`ape`a can be found. -3-