2013-07-08 Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission Minutes

Home

(Ms. Britt presented a power-point to the Commission explaining what purchased conservation easements are and how they work) Ms. Nicholson asked for the GMNF as an example. Once the 400,000.00 is secured for the easement where would it go? donating 25% of the value they would only get 300,000.00. The land will forever remain in agricultural, there will be no subdivision. Ms. Nicholson asked what if it gets switched to another crop. Ms. Britt replied that HILT writes the easements and it is written up to protect certain conservation values. They must be in compliance with HILT and NRCS and the County if they are a signatory also. ands. Mr. Hirakami asked if they would be able to put up farm dwellings. Ms. Britt replied that the easement will restrict how many buildings they can put up; Mr. Hirakami asked what would be the public benefit. Ms. Britt replied continued open space, native habitat for animals, maintaining agricultural industry. The public would have access through a hiking trail along the property and it could be written into the easement document. Mr. DeLozier asked if Ms. Britt could provide a sample of what the easement document would look like. Ms. Britt replied that she would be glad to provide a copy to the commissioners. CHRIS BILTOFT Mr. Chris Biltoft spoke on behalf of the acquisition of the Vacationland Trust/Hara property. He is a purchased. The cesspit is a major problem however they have very limited tools. The University of Hilo did a study of the nitrogen fluid in the area and the summary was that 19% of the total influx was due to the cesspool waste and 39% was agricultural runoff. There is a problem with the influx of nitrogenous waste and if acquired there could possibly be a partnership with the Department of Health to mitigate this issue. TOM KNOTT Mr. Tom Knott spoke in support of the Vacationland Trust/Hara property. It seems that with Puna growing it seems appropriate to acquire this land for recreation purposes and within the jurisdiction of the County. This would improve the health and relieve the pressure on parking, bathroom access and remain in preservation. JANE HENDERSON pae area and has nothing more to add. NADINE RUTLEDGE -pools spoke in support of the Vacationland Trust/Hara property. She stated that this area is used by about 1,000 people daily with only 17 parking stalls and no public facilities. It is used by locals, tourists and residents for snorkeling, - 3 -