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<br /> <br />The PCDP Action Committee believes that a more thoughtful application of LUPAG designations <br />would be more appropriate for the Keaʻau Village area that will ensure growth patterns more <br />conducive to a livable and walkable community based on the principles of Smart Growth. For <br />example, the land next to and around the schools might be more appropriately designated for low and <br />medium density urban uses rather than major commercial or industrial uses. Additionally, the PCDP <br />states “rezoning for residential development at higher densities, along with zoning for associated <br />neighborhood-oriented services, may occur within the LUPAG ‘alternate urban expansion areas,’ <br />provided that such zoning proceeds in phases outward from the designated regional town center. We <br />believe that a comprehensive review of the LUPAG designations for the entire Keaʻau area should be <br />considered as part of any effort to define the Keaʻau Regional Town Center area, including the vast <br />area mauka of Highway 11 currently designated Urban Expansion. <br /> <br />Lastly, the PCDP clearly calls for the creation of town center master plans prepared through a <br />community based process to guide future residential, commercial and industrial development in Puna. <br />It states “the regional town center plan should be prepared through an inclusive community based <br />process that involves major stakeholders, including landowners, community representatives, and public <br />agencies.” As far as the PCDP AC is aware, there has been no inclusive community effort to create a <br />town center master plan for Keaʻau. Additionally, it appears that there was no public community input <br />prior to Resolution 464-14 being presented to the Hawaiʻi County Council. The AC is concerned that <br />valuable community input and concerns have not been properly heard or considered. <br /> <br />The Action Committee would like to see more refinement to this plan. This broad brush approach <br />leaves too great an area vulnerable to undesirable development. Greater specificity will help to direct <br />the development and help to preserve the character of Keaʻau. <br /> <br />Again, we thank you for allowing the AC the opportunity to respond to the LUPAG Amendment and <br />appreciate your consideration of our concerns. We request that the PCDP AC be kept informed of the <br />progress of this proposed amendment. <br /> <br />Sincerely, <br /> <br />Patti Pinto <br />Chair, PCDP Action Committee <br /> <br />