Comm No 0044.09 - Testimony - CA-27 - PONC fund - Easements - Eminent Domain

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March 8, 2019 TO: Hawaii County Carter Commission From Deborah Ward, Chair, Sierra Club Moku Loa Group RE: PONC Amendments Thank you for helping us strengthen the PONC allocation to make protecting our natural, cultural and agricultural resources before they are developed for private gain. You are well aware that the public has demonstrated support of this program through three separate votes, and we encourage you to strengthen, not weaken the program. CA -9 We OPPOSE ambiguous language proposed by Commissioner Hopkins; We SUPPORT improving the clarity of the amendment by substituting the following language; Pay for the salary, wages and benefits of one staff member dedicated only to advancing administering the activities contained within this section and Section 10-16 of this charter. It needs to be clear that a single staff member in the Finance Department shall be funded designated with sole responsibility to administer the PONC activities. The PONC funds should not be used for non -dedicated activities related to the Finance department. We SUPPORT CA -18 as amended, for Initial Approval; Proposal to amend Section 10-16, Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Maintenance Fund, as submitted by Commissioner Rice To date, less than 9% of all the Maintenance Fund money has supported the work of local non -profits. The balance has been allocated to off -island consultants. These are the reasons why we are proposing these amendments: 1- The application process will be administered by the Department of Finance. They already assist with a $1 million grant program for social program non- profits. 2- Streamline the stewardship application process 3- Have the Public Access and Open Space Commission help with recommendations and oversight. 4- Allow the building, installing renting and maintenance of toilet facilities, sheds and structures. 5- Allow for the creation of trails or paths. Comm. No. 44.9