2018-02-21 KCDP Minutes Final - Laserfiche WebLink

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the language in the original proposed amendment of this policy (see communication number 2017-03) with additional changes which would read as follows: “The Kealakehe Wastewater Treatment Plant shall should be expanded to accommodate at a minimum the projected sewage volume from the Urban Area sewer priority areas extending from the south of Hina Lani Street service area to the Keauhou Wastewater Treatment Plant service area.” Action Committee members asked clarifying questions of Mr. Moore’s testimony. Mr. Moore explained that the 10-acre affordable housing project has received its state funding and they are now comparing options for on-site treatment systems instead of connecting to the sewer. He additionally stated that the developers propose paying for the sewer line, and that there are a total of 1,200 – 1,300 affordable housing units being planned. In response to questions raised about the capacity of the existing sewer treatment plan, Mr. Moore explained that they were already working with the Hawai‘i County Department of Environmental Management (DEM) regarding those concerns. Mr. Moore said he would be following up with a written version of his testimony. 2. Carol Ignacio, representing herself, testified on agenda item #6. She introduced herself as a lifelong resident of the Big Island and spoke to the importance of incorporating community input into planning decisions. Ms. Ignacio stated that people care about the future of their communities and desire opportunities to be involved. She stressed her belief that gathering community feedback and suggestions is not only valuable but necessary for success. She stated that while she often finds it easier to plan by herself, “chances of success get diminished with every less person I’m willing to engage with.” Ms. Ignacio read some comments from a 2008 County evaluation which lists feedback from the community, many of which included a desire for more community inclusion and engagement. Through her experience attending CDP meetings around the island, Ms. Ignacio said she is an advocate for 5pm meetings which allows members of the community to attend meetings after work. This would help to “give the community a forum to establish county policy.” 3. Sharon Willeford, representing herself, testified regarding the CDP generally. Ms. Willeford expressed concern for the traffic congestion along Palani road which could be -worsened by an increase of development in the area. She expressed further concern for the community in South Kona for the same reason. Ms. Willeford stated a plan should be drafted by the community, not developers. She also talked about creating food self-sustainability on the island, and advocated for placing a moratorium on further development in the Kona area until infrastructure concerns are solved. 4. Martin Ohan, representing himself, testified on agenda item #1. Mr. Ohan explained the issues he has experienced trying to rezone his property in Kona Acres due to legal issues surrounding the CDP. Mr. Ohan would like to subdivide his 6 acre property into 5 lots. He explained that the CDP language lumps projects of all sizes together, which may negatively affect the smaller, low-impact projects. Chair DeFranco requested that Mr. Ohan submit written testimony that may point the Action Committee to specific policies in the CDP which may be effecting his property. 5. Keith Kato, representing Hawai‘i Island Community Development Corporation, testified on agenda item #1. In Mr. Kato’s written testimony he addressed various policies within the Kona CDP as they affect affordable housing projects in Kona. Mr. Kato explained that because it is difficult to www.hiplanningdept.com kona@hawaiicounty.gov Page 2