Comm No 0021.007 - Testimony - CA-7 - PONC fund and Maintenance fund

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From: Janet Britt <janetbritt50@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, December 12, 2018 4:55 PM To: Charter Commission Subject: Testimony on 2% Fund from Janet Britt, Kailua Kona, HI Dear Charter Commission: I am writing to you because I am very concerned about the future of Hawaii's lands and waters. I am especially appalled that the County is considering reducing the 2% Public Access Open Space and Natural Resources (PONC) land fund to 0.75 percent and doing away with the Maintenance Fund. The People of the County of Hawaii voted strongly in favor of setting up this land fund at 2% of the tax revenue from property taxes. The implementation of this fund was an outstanding example of strategic thinking about the lands and oceans that this island depend on, not only for growing food and fish; but also for conserving the forests and wild places that attract millions of tourists each year. The PONC fund has been used to conserve so many special places around the island. Conservation of Hawaii is not finished. In fact, now it is more important than ever to have this fund available to protect the lands and waters because, once those precious resources are gone, they are gone forever. Please do not change the charter that has helped Hawaii County become a leader in the state and the nation in its foresight to protect unique and sacred places. Your decision will impact generations to come. We the citizens of Hawaii County love this area. I ask you to show your love of this amazing place by keeping the charter at 2%. Mahalo. Janet Britt 77-213 Mahiehie St. Kailua Kona, HI 96740 Comm. No. 21.7