08-27-2012 SKCDPAC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Road. The stated purpose of the gate is to prevent the dumping of yard waste in and around park land and to provide better care of the park, but Mr. Schulze questioned whether there might be alternative means of achieving that end without the use of the gate, which prevents access to the park for legitimate traditional purposes and gathering rights. He noted that the contemplated approach appears to be in conflict with provisions of the South Kohala Community Developement Plan which calls for preservation of a sense of place and culture. In the ensuing discussion, several members agreed that the parks along the western coast of the Big Island need better protection against extensive littering and polluting of shores. Mr. Schulze called for a delay in the transfer of Old Puako Road to the state, which is necesary for the gating to proceed, and felt that additional time should be used to explore other alternatives that might provide better protection against the spoiling of the park while still allowing traditional access for surfing and fishing. It was noted that programs with these goals in mind have been initiated at other beaches and parks along the coast without the use of gates that prevent access. Mr. Schulze agreed to pursue the matter to gather more information and see if alternative solutions could be discussed with state officials. Ms. Tanimoto then discussed the “Ten-Year Moratorium” which she said would eliminate fishing from an area beginning at the Four Seasons Resort and continuing north of Dr. Earl Bakken's residence just south of the Waikoloa Resort development. She stated that the fishing community feels that this plan is proceeding at the expense of the fishing community and that inadequate consideration has been given to the effects of the proposal and to what will be done when the moratorium expires. Ms. Horwatt then reported to the members about the Kawaihae Bypass Road and discussions concerning this subject at the South Kohala Traffic Safety Committee. She provided a handout for members with information on resources that discuss this project. She reported that an environmental impact study is being prepared at this time and is to be completed before the end of 2013. Ms. Horwatt discussed the proposed alternative routes for the bypass and indicated that construction is planned for the period between 2016 and 2019 if funding is available, with costs having been estimated in 2006 at approximately $130,000,000. There were no other subcommittee reports. The Committee then turned to New Business. Mr. Schulze discussed the turnover in membership, noting that there will be four vacancies on the Committee early next year. Upon motion made by Mr. Schulze and seconded by Ms. Horwatt and following discussion, the Committee unanimously adopted a resolution requesting that the County use its best efforts beginning prior to the next Committee meeting to advertise in an effort to recruit new members for the Committee. 3