HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0175.014 2022-2024 /Cot"11
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From: Paul Kuykendall
Sent: Tuesday, April 04, 2023 10:43 AM
To: Council Testimony, Lower Puna Rising (pd)
Subject: Testimony in support of Resolution 91-23
Aloha Honorable Council Members,
My name is Paul Kuykendall. I am a farmer who lives on lower Pohoiki Road with my wife and her
mother. We request that you support this resolution to dredge the Pohoiki Boat Ramp to help restore the
heart of our community in lower Pohoiki. It has been five years since the lava flow and our hearts are heavy
with the loss of our connection to the ocean. The boat ramp is necessary for our fisherman, who currently
must travel from Hilo or Kau to access their fishing grounds. It is also a key area for access to the ocean by our
keiki and 'ohanas. There currently is no safe ocean access for our families near our community.
Please encourage the state legislature to follow through on their commitment to help our community recover
from the lava flow and the loss of ocean access. As a member of Lower Puna Rising and a co-founder of the
Waihu 0 Puna Makai Watershed Coalition, I believe this project, done with necessary safeguards to near-
shore springs and ocean life, can help our 'ohanas renew their vital connection to Pohoiki and to each other so
we can continue to malama our precious near-shore ocean environment.
Mahalo nui for your consideration and your support of our recovery.
Paul Kuykendall .: ,
:
Comm. 'gin
Ref. : p UMwit
1 ef, Date_ A ® 5 2023