HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0314.031 2020-2022 1
ill 51
Aloha County Council, My name is Rachel Meisner and I oppose bills 52 and 53.
1 am writing today as a concerned Kona resident. I was born and raised in Kona. I have
two small children and we currently live in my childhood home in La`i`Opua (Hawaiian
homes). My mother is the beneficiary of this homestead leasehold which we are so
fortunate to have. We are a hard working local family and Kona is our forever home.
Over the years my partner and I have been saving our money with the dreams of one
day purchasing a home of our own. However, just like many other local people we are:
getting priced out of Hawaii. The price of real estate has skyrocketed, so much so, that
even with two middle class incomes we are still unable to afford a home of our own.
Hawaii is in a housing crisis and everyday local people are continuing to get pushed out.
Passing Bill 52 and 53 would continue to set a very dangerous precedent for our
precious agriculture lands. These developers say they want to provide "affordable
housing" for our Kona community. They have not been clear or transparent in their plans
to provide "affordable housing" for our Community. I'm just curious how can they
possibly know what affordable housing is in Hawaii when they come from Nebraska?
Who will hold them accountable to their word?
This is just another example of foreigners coming into Hawaii, buying land with the
intention of self profit. We must ask ourselves when is enough, enough? This happens
time and time again and it is hewa.
Moreover, these developers had plans of compromising archaeological sites (pre
contact Hawaii). Their lack of respect for preservation makes me question their
intentions and integrity. The disrespect displayed here tells me that they really have no
ties or regard for our Aina and the people who come from it.
I strongly oppose the passing of Bill 52 and 53. These developers/landowners have
failed to provide an adequate plan to provide "affordable" housing for our Kona
Community. Let's not continue to drive the locals out!
Mahalo for your time and consideration,
Rachael Meisner
Comm. No
Ref. To;
Ref. Bate AUG 1 8 2021