HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0898.085 2020-2022 P 7 counts(
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From: Jaime hidano
47
Sent: Saturday, April 15, 2023 7:59 PM 123 APR I �
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Written testimony in favor of Bill 194
Aloha Chair Kimball and the Hawaii County Council,
My name is Jaime and I'm a resident of North Kona. I am writing testimony in strong favor of Bill 194 and ask that you vote in
favor of overriding Mayor Roth's veto.
There have been many developers who USE the PROMISE of certain benefits to our community to get what they want for their
development.These promises move their developments forward or gain favor for approval on things like rezoning. I've seen it
myself in hearings.As soon as any benefit to the community is mentioned I,everyone perks up,favor is instantly shown on the
project. But what actually happens after approval is granted?Who is holding these developers accountable?What happens
when they don't follow through on the promises they used to gain what they wanted?
The mayor using the excuse of hospitals,schools,and affordable housing is just that.An excuse,and a cover for his
preferential treatment of developers and the current planning director. I sincerely believe the council is very prudent while
dealing with developments that will benefit the community while the other less transparent developments will be held
accountable for their actions and promises.
The favor the current planning director gives developers is very apparent.We all know he used to be one himself and still has
close ties to a development firm in Hilo. Regardless of what is and has-been said surrounding ethics and "recusals"we need
more transparency.
This is a chance to balance power.A chance to hold developers and big money accountable for their promises to our small
island community.As a resident of this island I would feel better if there was a check and balance system in place regarding
this issue.The power should not lie in one man's hands.As our chosen elected officials, I have faith that you can hear and
make sound decisions based on what is best for our community.
Please vote in favor of bill 194. It is fair and clearly makes sense. It also provides our community with some of the
transparency we have been asking for.
Mahalo nui,
Jaime Funakoshi
96740
Comm. No. "O%
Ref. To: ��Una I-
1 Ref. Date APR 1 9 2023