HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0135.002 1996-1998 May 20, 1998
Clifford Souza
133 Atawaena St. '
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
959-6651
C.,
Planning Committee
County Council Office
County Building
Dear Council Member .~~~~cG' `
This letter is in regard to a piece of property that is located on Loke Street in Honoka'a
that has a government road (Apua Road) adjacent to it. The property, presently owned
by the Dorothy V. Souza trust (T-M-K 4-5-3-24) has been owned by our family for
nearly 100 (one hundred) years. It has always been, and will continue to be used for
agricultural purposes. The Souza family would like to subdivide the property.
However, because we now want to subdivide the family property for the remaining
heirs, the Tax Department has informed us that we will need to pay "Roll Back" taxes in
excess of $10,000.00, from the year 1988 to the present.
We believe we should not be required to pay these "Roll Back" taxes because: a) The
property always was and will continue to be used for agricultural purposes; b) The
Souza family has faithfully paid taxes on this property for nearly one hundred (100)
years; and c) Our family has no intention of selling this property.
Our family has paid taxes on this property, yet we have been denied water, a
maintained road, and other improvements to the property. The government road,
mentioned above, provides access for other property owners, not just for the Souza
Ohana.
Roll Back taxes have never been imposed on agricultural subdivisions prior to our
request. In fact, in 1986, this subdivision was tentatively approved of by the Planning
Department and no mention was made of any "Roll Back" taxes. Again, in 1991 when
the property classification was changed from Urban to Rural, no mention was made of
"Roll Back" taxes.
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The conditions imposed by the Tax Department (i.e. the "Roll Back" taxes) create an
unfair and excessive burden on our family. We have been trying to develop a small 5
lot family subdivision since 1986 and have met with roadblocks every step of the way
Our family merely wants to keep the land that we have and to divide it among the
surviving heirs.
Your favorable consideration in our matter will be greatly appreciated. Please send
me a short letter or note indicating your position in this matter. It it is more convenient,
you may e mail me your reply using this address: Cliff@interpac.net.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Cliffo d za