HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0284.006 2020-2022 June 14, 2021
To: Chairperson Matt K5neali'i-Kleinfelder,Vice-Chair Heather Kimball, and Members of the
Havvai`iCounty Council's Finance Committee
From: Deborah Chang,. L.
SUBJECT: Testimony inSupport ofResolution No. I45-21Authorizing the Director of
Finance toEnter into Negotiations for the Acquisition ofLands and/or
Conservation Easements for the KA5hukonaProperties.
M5hukona's cultural, environmental, historic, and recreational value to the residents and
visitors of our entire island cannot be overstated. Approval of Resolution No. 145-21 is the
necessary first step towards acquiring and protecting these lands in perpetuity. Let's not mi$Ai �-
this onca-in-a-|ifetinneopportunity!
| was born inNorth Koha|aand grew upinWaimea. VVevisited our extended family inNorth
Kohala every weekend, and M5hukona Harbor was our only swimming pool. Many of us honed
our swimming skills there. The ocean along the entire stretch of coastline from M5hukona
through Kapa`anuiiaamong the most clear, clean, and beautiful when the sea iscalm. |tis
possible to pinpoint the kukui trees along Maui's coastline from here. | and my cousins learned
from our parents to spearfish and sustainably harvest food from this area.
For many years I resigned myself to bidding farewell to M5hukona as I remember it, but the
prospect of oreventing resort development at M5hukona fills me with hope for the future.
Conserving the coastline for public open space will enable local families to continue our fishing
traditions and teach younger generations the stories of our ancestors who lived in this special
place.
Mahalo nui for your consideration of this heartfelt support for County acquisition of the
W15hukunaPropertieo.
Comm. No.
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