Communication Number 2018-12 South Kohala Action Committee Priorities Draft

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Michael Yee, Director Planning Department September 24, 2018 Page 2 2. Wastewater Treatment System in Puako. The South Kohala AC continues to work with the Puako Community Association in an effort to protect the beautiful and ecologically important reefs along the South Kohala coast. Research from multiple organizations including the University of Hawai`i at Hilo, the Nature Conservancy, Coral Reef Alliance, and Cornell University have revealed the destructive presence of high levels of nitrogen nearshore. We wish to express our willingness to assist with coming up with a solution which will enable us to expeditiously protect our valuable coastline waters. 3. Waimea Historic District. The South Kohala CDP calls for a historic district designation in Waimea to protect its culturally and historically significant sites. A historic district designation would protect Waimea Town's paniolo culture and overall sense of place. We currently have a community partnership group researching the process, location, and viability of such a project. 4. Waikoloa Intersection and Second Access Road. An investigatory subcommittee consisting of three AC members was created in April 2018 to research three major developments in Waikoloa that were conditionally approved with the requirement of upgrading the Waikoloa Road / Paniolo Avenue intersection. This undertaking has the attention of many Waikoloa residents who express concern for traffic congestion and safety issues. These concerns heighten during emergency situations. The work of the investigatory subcommittee is ongoing; we aim to provide information on the hazard risks and potential solutions. 5. Emergency Shelters in District. The South Kohala CDP AC finds that the inventory of emergency shelters in the district may be insufficient in the event of an evacuation of the residential and resort areas along the coastline. As such, it is of high importance that emergency shelter facilities are available with the right capacity. An investigatory subcommittee exists to assess the need and potential for new shelters. We appreciate your time in considering our priorities as a reflection of that of our community, mahalo for your continued support, Diane Kaneali`i, Chair South Kohala Community Development Plan Action Committee