HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0189.025 2020-2022 •
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P. O. Box 769 * Kealakekua, Kona, HI 96750 ..'1,` �Fv k s
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!'.Z!� Phone: (808) 323-2993 * Fax: (808) 323-9815
V" , "; e-mail: trona)o !anii@twc.corn 1 '
April 18, 2021
Dear Commissioners and County Council Members,
RE: Holualoa C+.mmunity Forest-Sugg.23-013 (21-002)-TMK 76-004-003
On Behalf of the Kona Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, we would like to ask you for your
consideration in the acquisition for Ke Ala Kakou (Holualoa Community Forest) parcel
noted above.
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As the interested caretakers of the Holualoa Hongwanji parcel bordering the walking
path referenced in the preservation request, Kona Hongwanji Buddhist Temple believes tiO r.,; .
that preservation of this parcel would reap future rewards in controlling or even
preventing flooding that is a frequent concern in the Holualoa area. If the property can
be turned into a riparian community forest, it could help slow down the water flow in this
Flood hazardous area. The forest could potentially filter and control the amount of water
flowing into the Holualoa village area.
The walking path also proposed for the parcel, should it be preserved, would also
provide a vital and safe connection between Holualoa School and the County's Kona
Imin Cultural Center. This would allow continuation of cultural & recreational activities
already occurring in the area such as the Kona Coffee Festival activities, hula and bon
dance celebrations, and annual cultural activities. The preservation of the property may
make it possible to even expand the opportunities for recreational & cultural activities
beyond the current uses.
In summary, while this is a relatively small parcel that the request for preservation
addresses, it has the potential to provide great benefits in terms of flood control,
preservation of open spaces for everyone to utilize, and opening the possibility of
increased recreational and cultural activities for the entire community.
We thank you for your time & wisdom in consideration of this matter,
Sincerer ,
f
Joseph M. Gusman Rev. Blayne Higa `..
Kyodan President Resident Minister
Kona Hongwanji Buddhist Temple Kona Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
Comm. No. ` R '19
Ref.To: PIFs.
Ref. Date APR 2 0 2021