HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0047.015 2020-2022 gwacd
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From: Cory Harden
Seat: Monday, December 21, 2020 12:58 PM
To: Chung, Aaron; David, Maile; Kanealii-Kleinfelder, Matt; Kierkiewicz, Ashley; Kimball, Heather,-
Lee
eather;Lee Loy, Sue; Inaba, Holeka; Richards, Tim;Villegas, Rebecca; Council Testimony
Subject: Bill 217 Waipi'o( Dec 23 Council
comments on Bill 217, Draft 2 re. Waipi'o
for Hawai'i County Council, 9 AM Wednesday, December 23, 2020
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from Cory Harden, Hilo
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I do not support Bill 217.
I do support protecting the natural, cultural, and historic treasures of Waipi'o, protecting native Hawaiian rights, protecting people
who live and farm in the valley, and asking for ideas from the general public.
Bill 217 is problematic because it may become mired in legal challenges related to the 1892 Highways Act, historical trails, and
shoreline access. Companion bills are planned, to restrict vehicles and develop a permit system. But what if they are delayed, or
never pass?
Many diverse people have put a lot or work into seeking solutions for Waipi'o. The Working Group includes native Hawaiians,
Waipi'o Taro Farmers, Kamehameha Schools, Bishop Museum, the Visitors Bureau, County people (Parks and Recreation,
Research and Development, Public Works, Corporation Counsel, police, Councilmember Kimball), and State people
(Department of Agriculture, Land and Natural Resources, Representative Nakashima).
But the rollout of Bill 217 was a bit of a shock for the public, with cars allowed, but not people on foot. The recent Facebook
meeting was helpful, but it didn't allow much public input.
So I suggest Council defer the bill, and hold a virtual public meeting, in the evening, so working people can come. At the
meeting the Working Group could provide background on Waipi'o, then hold a hearing so the public can offer ideas for how to
move forward.
Based on that, the Working Group could then develop an overall plan. To make sure they have enough staff support, perhaps
Bishop Estate could assist.
I hope the plan will
• protect natural, cultural, and historic resources ;
• protect native Hawaiian culture and rights
• protect people who live and farm in the valley
• consider hiking access—there are few legally accessible hikes in the area
• follow laws re. highways, historical trails, and shoreline access
• favor people on foot over people in cars
• limit visitors who do not live or farm in the valley
• educate visitors
Perhaps Bill 217 was not the best first step, but at least we're on our way.
Comm' A. 1
Ref. : CUMA
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