2018-02-20 Letter to Sylvia Luke re HB 1884, HD 1 Relating to Subsistence and Right to Farm (2)

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Harry Kim Mayor &mufti ffirr IIi Wil Okabe Managing Director Barbara J. Kossow Deputy Managing Director 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553 KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy., Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740 (808) 323-4444 • Fax (808) 323-4440 February 20, 2018 Representative Sylvia Luke, Chair Committee on Finance Hawari State Capitol, Room 308 Honolulu, HI 96813 Dear Chair Luke and Committee Members: Re: H 1884, HD 1 Relating to Subsistence and Right to Farm Hearing Date 02/22/18 — 11:00 am, House Conference Room 308 Although HB 1884 is well meaning, and subsistence farming is generally to be encouraged, I must oppose HB1884, HD I. As stated in the testimony of the Department of Agriculture, the unintended consequences of this bill may be substantial. We can anticipate that elevating subsistence farming to the same level as commercial agriculture will cause problems that have already been flagged by several State departments and agencies. 1 would add that there are numerous residential subdivisions on agricultural land (particularly on the Big Island but elsewhere as well), which are made up of relatively small lots and where we must recognize that some agricultural activities can constitute a nuisance, such as the raising of pigs or chickens. Protecting against neighborhood conflict is important, and HB 1884, D 1 might make the situation very difficult to control. 1 regretfully urge that H 1884, HD 1 be deferred. Respectfully submitted, Harry Kim Mayor, County of Ha ar County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.