HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0189.023 2020-2022 COUNTY CLERK
Testimony re: Holualoa Community Forest COUNTY OF HAWAII
RECEIVED ele
Sugg. 23-013 (22-002)—TM K 76-004-003 Time '1:12 G&.Nt. By
Date APR 2 0 2021
Aloha Commissioners and County Council Members,
It is wonderful news that you are considering the acquisition of Ke Ala Kakou (Holualoa
Community Forest.) My husband and I have lived in Holualoa for over 45 years, raising two
daughters. We know well, the need for community space here. The only recreational area for
our keiki and community residents is Holualoa School, and that is not always available. As a
rural town, we have no sidewalks, and it can be very dangerous walking through town.
Holualoa School students must walk along the highway to the Imin Center for emergency drills.
It is scary watching the little ones make their way along the narrow and rutted shoulder.
Creating a riparian community forest will help slow the water in the FEMA flood hazardous
PONC parcel. It could help flood mitigation and filter water down into our aquifer system
protection our village and ocean quality. The walking path connecting the school through Ke Ala
Kakou and to the Imin Center would provide safety for our Keiki and pleasant outings for all.
The path and forest will be an attraction for residents and visitors alike.
In addition, the path will allow more participation by students and community members in the
various programs available at the Imin Center, as well as create an opportunity to build up more
programs. As it is now, the only way to participate is to drive and park at Imin center, limiting
the amount of participation. Students would be able to walk from school to after-school
programs.
We realize this is a difficult decision, as there is so much need in Kona at large for preserving
and creating community spaces. We thank you in advance for your consideration.
Mahalo,
Jeannie Jewell
Comm. No. VA
Ref.To: PIFC
Ref. nate APR 2 0 2021