HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0186.068 2020-2022 From: Wesley & Sarah Ervin I
Sent: Tuesday, May 04, 2021 7:50 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Testimony for Res. 80-21, 81-21, 82-21, and 83-21
I
M
Aloha Commissioner and County Council Members,
This is my testimony in regards to Ke Ala Kakou, Keakealaniwahine Banyans, Magic Sands La'aloa, id Pahoehoe
a
La'aloa.
First of all, I would like to thank the county for allowing this discussion to move forward thus far. The land of Hawaii
is so sacred and special to many that don't voice their concerns, so I appreciate you all listening with the care you
have provided.
I believe all of these properties play a great role in the overall structure of our ahuapua'a, though I have the most
connection to Ke Ala Kakou. I truly believe the Holualoa Community Forest will offer a great space for all of those in
Holualoa, and the rest of Kona. The property isn't large but any acreage devoted to the preservation of natural forest
and a safe outdoor space for all ages will only benefit the community as a whole, present and future.
My wife, Sarah, and I are residents of Holualoa and spend a decent amount of our time selling food located in the
village. We truly feel Holualoa is our home and want to raise our family surrounded by such strong, loving friends
and community. We need more beautiful outdoor spaces to encourage those lasting beautiful community interactions.
The beauty usually comes naturally but we'll need a little bit of governmental assistance to get to that point.
As Holualoa is just up mauka from the ocean, it seems some well thought-out natural space could help with any flood
paths. Any investment into prevention of flood damage (public and private) can only help us all. Not to mention
whatever pollution the waters would be draining into the ocean. It's my understanding that a small devoted forest in
our village would help to filter some flooding into our aquifer, rather than continuing the `snowball' effect down the
mountain.
Also, as more parcels of land are being bought up by transplants from outside our community, it is becoming more
and more obvious that we need areas where locals' needs are prioritized. I'm in no way against new community
members but we have to insist on some preservation of cultural-safe community places. Cultural respect, `Aina
protection, encouragement of shaded exercise, and community development are only a handful of reasons why this
acquisition should be important to our county.
Holualoa Village has the deep roots of community but they're small and need a little help to strengthen them.
Our ahuapua'a would benefit greatly with this investment.
Mahalo for your time and attention.
Aloha,
Wesley Ervin
Iwo n
Comm. o. Wb
Ref. o:
1Ref. Date— MAY Q 9 21121_