Comm No 0003.01.42 - Testimony - Ad Hoc - PONC fund and Maintenance fund

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To: Chairman Douglass Adams and Members of the Hawai'i County Charter Commission From: Deborah Chang, kulaiwioutlook.com Date: December 13, 2018 SUBJECT: Proposed Changes to the 2% Land Fund The "2% Land Fund" and its various amendments have been reviewed and approved by a majority of the voters of Hawai'i County three times! I find it insulting to the voters that effort is underway to undermine the will of the voters by (1) attempting (again) to reduce the percentage being set-aside for the 2% Land Fund; (2) exposing the much-needed Maintenance Fund to political machinations by moving it out of the County Charter and into the Hawai'i County Code; and (3) making it possible for the County to sell lands that are acquired through the years -long, arduous process of successfully using the 2% Land Fund. What appears to be a surplus of funds is an illusion. It's not that the accumulated funds are excessive and unneeded. Rather, the administration of the funds has been so awkward, that utilization of the funds is excessively delayed. Those of us who are willing to help via well- established and stable 501(c)3 community-based organizations are confused as to how to effectively apply for these funds. It can be very discouraging when there is no single, contact person within the County administration to answer questions and respond in a timely manner. Maintenance of land is a complex, multi -faceted responsibility, and partnering with stewardship groups involves additional administrative responsibilities. If effective partnerships are to develop between the County and stewardship groups, greater effort needs to be placed in training (staff and the partners), additional equipment, and legal services. As for opening the possibility of the County selling lands that are acquired through the 2% Land Fund, this would have a chilling effect on land trusts and other donors that have been so generous in contributing the matching funds that have been crucial to final acquisitions. In summary, the 2% Land Fund needs to be more effectively utilized and not reduced. Inadequate administration of the program is resulting in excessive delays and surplus funds. It is quite possible that existing County staff is ill-equipped to meet the added responsibilities of managing what may need to be a separate program with its own staff. Mahalo for the opportunity to comment on this important concern. Comm. No. 3.1.42