2017-08-09 Letter to Ms. Luana Kawelu re Halau overnight stay at Parks & Recreation facilities

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Ms. Luana Kawelu August 8, 2017 Page 3 The restriction/constraint regarding the use of a gym as a sleeping space is the need for fire sprinklers. The codes also require audio/visual fire alarms. These are not commonly present in older buildings, and therefore, upgrades would be required to accommodate sleeping. HFD has allowed sleeping in these facilities under the exemption found in the NFPA 1, Uniform Fire Code, Hawaii 2006 Edition, regulation 20.2.3.6 Use of School Facilities for Sleeping, which reads: "Educational occupancies that allow sleeping on a temporary basis shall prohibit smoking or open flames, and shall be provided with one of the following: (1) Smoke alarms shall be provided in the designated sleeping area. When the facility is provided with a fire alarm system, the smoke alarms shall be connected to the fire alarm system, or (2) An approved fire watch shall be provided." None of the DPR facilities above are school facilities, with the exception of perhaps Kawananakoa Gym, which is also governed by rules included in the lease agreement with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL). DHHL lease agreement #44, amendment #2, with DPR, item #8, states in part: "it is agreed that for the health and safety of those using the facilities, and to address potential damages to the gymnasium, NO FOOD OR DRINK AND OVERNIGHT STAY at the facilities are allowed." (Emphasis as it appears in document.) The DHHL lease agreement would disqualify Kawananakoa Gym in any event, regardless of any safety -protection systems that may be in place. Based on this research, DPR has recommended against the continued practice of allowing overnight stays at DPR recreational facilities. However, DPR/Hawai'i County recognizes and fully supports the cultural and historical significance of the MMF, and is aware of the shortage of accommodations available for this important event. As such, every effort will be made to work with your organization to identify potential alternate sites. DPR would like to offer the usage of the Mauna Kea Recreation Area cabins to visiting hAlau in 2018. There are two bunkhouses, capable of holding 24 people each, plus seven cabins, capable of holding six people each, for a total of 90 people. Each bunkhouse and cabin has its own bathroom with shower. There are potable water, a dining hall, and ample parking. DPR is ready to assist the Merrie Monarch Festival in addressing any potential concerns you may have with these suggested alternate accommodations, and looks forward to working with you. County of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.