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From: Kathleen McMillen <IrishWoman@hawaii.rr.com> <br />Sent: Sunday, December 9, 2018 2:01 PM <br />To: Charter Commission <br />Subject: 2% Land Fund <br />I have grave concerns about the handling and attitude of our County Government with regard to <br />the 2% Land Fund. The law has been in place since 2005 yet the will to implement its intentions <br />are constantly stymied. This forward thinking law was supported by a large majority (63% of <br />voters three times) of Big Island residents to assure our island does not suffer the overcrowding, <br />horrible traffic, etc. as on other islands in our state and to preserve open space and parklands for <br />future generations. <br />There is $16 million in this fund because the County does not have the will to move forward and <br />buy lands for preservation of our island's future. When I sent an email to the Mayor last year his <br />Public Relation's agent told be there were other funding priorities as if these monies were part of <br />the general fund for the County. They are not. They have been earmarked ONLY for open space <br />land acquisition. <br />I am so sick of our politicians eyeing a pot of public funds designated for one use and trying to <br />manipulate legislation so they can raid that fund for other uses. It seems to happen every time <br />there is a funding shortfall or natural disaster. Why isn't the disaster relief fund properly funded? I <br />say, don't jeopardize our future because of your inability to plan well for potential disasters, <br />economic and social problems. If we do not preserve our lands now all those problems will be <br />significantly exacerbated. Yes, problems need to be dealt with but let's not get stuck in short <br />term thinking at the expense of the future of our people. Open Spaces and parklands are not just <br />enjoyable. They contribute to the peace and health of every resident and are critical to the <br />environment. <br />There is a movement by our Mayor and other politicians to weaken the 2% Fund at a time when it <br />should be strengthened. We should not have to keep voicing what we citizens have already made <br />clear. Rather than raiding funds, how about implementing the will of the citizens and take decisive <br />action NOW by using these fund hire staff to acquire more lands for a more secure future for us <br />all. <br />Kathleen McMillen <br />75-5768 Makelina PI <br />Kailua Kona, Hawaii 96740 <br />1 Comm. No. 3.1.37 <br />