Comm No 0024.030 - Testimony - CA-9 - staff for PONC fund and Maintenance fund

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County of Hawaii Charter Commission 25 Aupuni Street Hilo, Hawaii 96720 Room 1401 Re: Communication 24 for Charter Amendment 9 Aloha Charter Commissioners, I am writing to express my strong support for Communication 24 which would use 2% Land Fund monies to fund a staff position dedicated to the management of the 2% Fund. The people of Hawaii have voted repeatedly to support the 2% fund and its current structure by a clear majority, and this voting record demonstrates the strong conservation and environmental ethics of Hawaii's residents and voters. Although the 2% Land Fund has had great success on Hawaii Island in acquiring thousands of acres of unique and irreplaceable properties, the 2% Land fund would greatly benefit from having a dedicated staff position designed to only focus on work directly related to the 2% Fund. Since 2004, only 14 properties have been acquired through the fund, even though considerably more have been proposed. By funding a position dedicated to the efficient management of this extremely valuable resource, the County and its citizens will enjoy the benefit of having more of Hawaii's treasured lands preserved and protected, in addition to acquiring more matching funds and stewardship grants that serve to amplify the good work that the 2% is intended to do. Finally, we must also ensure that any lands purchased via the 2% Fund continue to be protected in perpetuity by preserving the current language which states the following. "This property (or easement) was acquired with money from the Public Access, Open Space and natural Resources Preservation Fund. It shall be held in perpetuity for the use and enjoyment of the people of Hawaii County and may not be sold, mortgaged, traded or transferred in any way." Mahalo and thank you for your support of Hawaii Island's treasured places. Leslie ole -Bron s Attorney at Law P.Q. Box 77 Papaaloa, HI. 96780 lesli a@cole-brooks. cont Comm. No. 24.30