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dwellings of, from the Hakalau Plantation so, you know, it’s a source of, to see what it was like,
<br />but also to create a vehicle so that the old timers can share some, some of their history.
<br />
<br />But, then the third thing, which is really why I’m here today, wanted to create a form for
<br />comments about development because we, we do have a sense of responsibility for the land. It’s
<br />just a really special place to live. So, what we want to be doing is tracking all the lands that,
<br />within the former plantation so this is one of them.
<br />
<br />I’ve spent the last few days reviewing Mr. Shropshire’s application and supporting documents as
<br />well as all of the community development plan drafts. In the vision statement, there were a
<br />couple of statements that I think that fit well within this context. One is our pristine landscapes
<br />and rich agricultural lands from mauka to makai, native forests, coastal waters, streams and
<br />watersheds, the sweeping views and open spaces are protected and enhanced. I’ve read the
<br />application, the Planning Department’s analysis of site lines, and I understand, you know. We’re
<br />on the side of a volcano. Everything goes down, so you know you’re looking over a lot of
<br />things, but I just don’t agree that ten lots on a narrow stretch of land adjacent to the Belt Road
<br />don’t inhibit sweeping views and open spaces. In terms of view, it’s just my personal opinion
<br />that more lots are worse than fewer lots.
<br />
<br />The second statement I’d like to highlight is Hāmākua is a place where change is thoughtful and
<br />deliberate. Our deep aloha for the ‛aina compels and ensures smart sustainable development and
<br />the protection and perpetuation of Hāmākua’s uniqueness now and in to the future.
<br />
<br />The application was really, really complete. Based on the criteria included in the application, all
<br />the issues were addressed. However, I think that the Windward Planning Commission is placed
<br />at a disadvantage because the community development plan and process have not been complete,
<br />completed and adopted. It’s a really difficult balancing act between, among developers,
<br />residents, and other stakeholders in between the present and the future.
<br />
<br />MIYASATO: Mrs. Forbes, could you please summarize?
<br />
<br />FORBES: Yes. One of, you know, it seems as though the process, this is editorial comment.
<br />The process is a reactive one. I’m here today just reacting to an application as opposed to being
<br />in a position where we went out and sought specific kinds of development. So, what I, my hope
<br />is that the community development plan will be adopted sooner rather than later; that the
<br />Commission use the Plan to guide decision-making; and that, that community input is vigorous
<br />and we act together to create our desired future. So, thank you for the chance to testify.
<br />
<br />MIYASATO: Thank you. Commissioners, any questions? Thank you. State your name and
<br />residence.
<br />
<br />TOLEDO: Good morning. My name is Richard Toledo. I’m, I was, I grew up in Nīnole, 1944
<br />to 1962. I left for ten years to go to school, military service. I came back in 1972, and I worked
<br />for Hāmākua Sugar for 16 years after that. And, after leaving Hāmākua in ’88, I pursued what
<br />my college degree allowed me to do and become a mortgage broker, so I worked in a mortgage
<br />business and properties for another 17 years before I retired.
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<br />EXHIBIT A
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