HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0315.039 2020-2022 11111 0 NVaU wpuna
Shalan Crysdale Keoni Fox Michelle Galimba
Pelehonuamea Harman Nohealani Ka`awa Ka`ohi Mokuhali'i
Megan Lamson Leilani Rodrigues Jodie Rosam
August 2,2021
Chair David,Vice Chair Chung,and Members of the Hawai`i County Council,
counciltestimony@hawaiicounty.gov •„ 7
Re:SUPPORT for RES 161-21:Authorizes the Director of Finance to enter into negotiations for the N
acquisition of lands and/or conservation easements for all or a portion of the properties identified as Tax-Ilap
Keys 9-4-001:008,009,016,017,and 023,situated in the Ahupua'a of Kiolaka'a and Wai`oma`o,District of
Ka`u,utilizing the Public Access,Open Space,and Natural Resources Preservation Fund(PONC).
Aloha County Council,
We,the volunteer members of Hui o Waikapuna(Ala Kahakai Trail Association's(ATA)Ka`u Stewardship
Committee)SUPPORT Resolution 161-21 put forward by Councilwoman David regarding the utilization of
PONC funding for the acquisition of Kiolaka'a by the Ala Kahakai Trail Association(ATA)to ensure that this
'aim is protected for future generations.
Hui o Waikapuna recognizes that community-based management is essential when it comes to`aina that has
such a multitude of resources on which our community depends.It takes expertise and a deep sense of
place-based knowledge,and these invaluable qualities are found within our Ka`u community and community
organizations.We also recognize the strict restrictions set in place upon the acquisition of a parcel with PONC
funds,and support the idea of a Conservation Easement and future land use restrictions in order to
perpetually protect this precious landscape.
We will continue to support the needs of our community.We see the process of protecting this`aina as an
opportunity for the Ka`u people to come together from a place of love and respect for our lands,and to build
on that foundation as we progress to stewardship.It is more than conservation of land-it is an opportunity
for healing.Our kupuna set this path long before us,and it is our kuleana to continue their legacy for the
generations to come.
Hui o Waikapuna encourages the Council to put the'aim first and help us share this precious gift with those
who will follow in our footsteps.Please use your vote to support Resolution 161-21.
He ali`i ka`aina,he kauwa ke kanaka.(The land is Chief,man is its servant.)
'Olelo No'eau from Mary Kawena Pukui
Mahalo for your time and consideration,
7lui a"Waikapuna
Shalan Crysdale Pelehonuamea Harman Ka`ohi Mokuhali`i
Keoni Fox Nohealani Ka'awa Leilani Rodrigues
Michelle Galimba Megan Lamson Jodie Rosam
Comm. N NO* -1
Ref. To: itAluPL1I
Ref. Date AUG - 4 2021