HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0315.033 2020-2022 1 ;. k Y
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August 3, 2021 COMP( OF , .t. r..: l;
County of Hawai'i, County Council ,,- t ; -3 =1.1 !t,, -_
Subject: Support Resolution 161 (Kiolaka'a, Ka'u)
Aloha Members of the County Council,
I, Luana Evalani (Keanu) Fox, was born and raised in Wai'ohinu, Kiolaka'a, Ka'u. Although I now
reside in Kaneohe, Oahu, my na'au reminds me that I am Ka'u. My Keanu and Kahakua Kupuna
subsisted on fishing and agricultural products from this area. Presently, I own a homestead in
Kiolaka'a. This ahupua'a provides cultural, social, and educational values and can provide financial
benefits.
My ohana and others, fish along the coastline, pick opihi and limu, catch a'ama crabs, and gather
salt. We also gather Keawe branches at Ka'alu'alu Bay as we spend the day relaxing in the vast,
precious area that so richly bless us with its abundance of resources.
The ahupua'a of Kiolaka'a, enriched with its native dryland forests with its rare and endangered
species must be protected and preserved for future generations. The anchialine ponds and native
vegetation must be protected. We are so richly blessed to have this vast coastline of Kiolaka'a, Ka'u
because it is a special place.
I pray that the County will ensure that Kiolaka'a end up in the hands of the people and community of
Ka'u, where it will be cared for in perpetuity. The purchase would preserve historic cultural sites,
protect open spaces, and provide access for fishing, gathering, and recreation. Also, it will promote
Hawaiian culture, tradition, and customary practices.
As a member of the Keanu and Kahakua Ohana, I am asking the members of the County Council to
help us, the people of Ka'u, to protect and preserve the Ahupua'a of Kiolaka'a, from the threat of
private development. We do not want this area to be bought out by people who will restrict our
cultural practices and gathering rights.
Mahalo nui loa,
Luana Evalani (Keanu) Fox
Comm. No. •1)3
Ref. To: '((AIkha,
Ref. Date AUG - 4 2021