HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0175.012 2022-2024 P/Couric-i
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RE: Testimony in support of Resolution No. 91-23
Aloha mai kakou,
My name is Leila Kealoha and I am from lower Puna. I was born, raised and will die in Puna. I
hail from this land and ocean as my kupuna did. I am a 3rd Generation Lawai'a out of Pohoiki
boat ramp. I am in support of Resolution No. 91-23 to have the Federal Emergency
Management Agency and the Hawaii State Legislature allocate the funding from the 2023-2024
and 2024-2025 Fiscal Year(s) needed to complete all the activities necessary to restore the
Pohoiki boat ramp. We, the primary stakeholders the lawai`a and `ohana are directly impacted
by this disruption of our lifeline to our food sources. We need our icebox back! Our `ohana are
hungry and have been for years. We never had a problem getting fish, whether it was for a baby
party, wedding or graduation, the lawai`a always provided for us. Pohoiki has been a fishing
village for generations for our families. It has also served as a port to access the ocean for
safety measures which is critical to saving lives.
I have personally and professionally worked tirelessly and whole-heartedly on this project since
2019 by hosting meetings, meeting with the State, County and community to meet the needs of
our `ohana and lawai`a. We depend on the Pohoiki boat ramp for sustenance, please help us get
back to feeding ourselves! The only way to do that is if you support Resolution 91-23 to allocate
the funding for the dredging of Pohoiki boat Ramp. Mahalo for your time, support and for
listening.
CD
msµ,
Comm. Ne.
Ref. To:
Ref. Date I APR - 5 2023