HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0496.021 2022-2024PCN,SV
.bill V
COMM. 4Q6
From: Baruj Braja Tarletz de Molina
Sent: Monday, October 02, 2023 4:29 PM WCD
To: Council Testimony CM
C— . -.
Subject: Bill 82 Private Roads Bill '+ —�
Attachments: Testimony for SB 1298 RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPOR'[bTION'a
updating 2023 Bill 82.doc; Outline for 03 10 20 use update 2023.doc; Three Minutes
March 10 2020 edit corto use update 2023.doc
w
Jenn Kagiwada, Chair, and the other Members of the Policy Committee on Health, Safety, and Well-
Being -
My name is Braja RuthAnne Tarletz and I present this testimony in SUPPORT of Bill 82 representing
myself, Puua Community and Road Association, and Kehilat Olam Ejad Ganim / Congregation Gaia
Yoga Gardens / aka GaiaYoga Gardens.
I have attached three documents that represent my research and testimony/regarding the public use
of private roads and necessity for them to be maintained as otherwise many areas in Hawaii County
are land -locked and /or lava -locked. Following my testimony in these documents is a timeline that is
background to the reason I believe that Cinder Road, Railroad Avenue, and PuVa Road should be
maintained by the County to improve, grade, repair or perform other construction work upon said
private, nondedicated and non -surrendered roads.
The intent behind the measure is to serve public need of ensuring private roads open to the public are
at a standard necessary for public transportation and/or public safety. Since the 2018 Lava Flow this
is the only access we have of egress and ingress as both of our previous routes are under lava and
the third possible route has been blocked (previously there was a gate - we have been told it would
be an hour before we could be rescued if Railroad Avenue / Cinder Road route was blocked. We
would be dead by then! I bless Lono Lyman every day for allowing us to use these roads (Cinder
Road and Railroad Ave, which is one of our two easements).
For us living in this land/lava-locked area this is only a temporary solution so that we are at least to
get out safely in the case of an emergency. What I see as the permanent solution is listed after that in
the attchements. I am more than thankful and bless G -d for this first important step in a solution.
There are many other areas that have similar issues.
Please note- Resolution No 732 - 18, November 20, 2018 (This resolution refers to the opening of
Railroad Avenue as an emergency route.) I have the full resolution available if needed. This was
never enacted!
Shaloha, Braja RuthAnne Tarletz
I apologize for the lateness of this testimony. I only found out about this on Friday and all day
Saturday and Sunday I was in CERT training.
Comm. 11 — .-
1 Rif. To:
WX Ref. Dat* (�t'T - 3 2023
Connectivity in Lower Puna
Vision Statement for Lower Puna
Please add categories and subcategories
Roadway recovery -Connectivity
• Opening up 137 from Kapoho to Pohoiki
• Emergency Routes (Braja)
Relevant Statutes with links:
2019 Hawaii Revised Statutes
TITLE 15. TRANSPORTATION AND UTILITIES
264. Highways
264-1 Public highways and trails.
Universal Citation: HI Rev Stat § 264-1 (2019)
2019 Hawaii Revised Statutes
TITLE 15. TRANSPORTATION AND UTILITIES
264. Highways
264-1.5 Emergency powers; traffic emergency zones.
Universal Citation: HI Rev Stat _§ 264-1.5 (2019)
In 2004 HB 2785 was proposed and did NOT pass. It was entitled
"Part. GRANT OF EASEMENT OF NECESSITY FOR LANDLOCKED PROPERTY
"Landlocked parcel" means a separate parcel of real property that has no legal access for ingress, egress,
or utilities purposes to a public highway, as described in section 264-1.
https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session2004/bills/HB2785 .htm
If this bill had passed many of the current issues would be moot, because the situation of
"Landlocked parcels" would have been addressed by statute. There is, also, litigative
precedence. However, that is long and costly.
In 2014 in response to that lava flow the following happened (this is just one of many reports
about it):
https//www.staradvertiser_com/2014/12/21 /hawaiiinews/new-road-opened-ahead-of-lava-flow/
VIDEO: Railroad Avenue Drive -Through by Big Island Video News on Dec 21, 2014 at 8:31 am
A real-time drive on the Railroad Avenue, filmed with a GoPro camera, mixed with full remarks by county
officials at the blessing ceremony.
(ABOVE VIDEO) Drive-through on Railroad Avenue taken on Saturday (Dec. 20) at noon. Video by David
Corrigan, includes inset video from the blessing ceremony held at 10 a.m. and a route map posted on the
Hawaii County Department of Public Works website.
Railroad Avenue is in place and ready to be used.
Chain of Craters (road) was also worked on during the 2014 lava flow. That is another
emergency route that could be completed.
Obviously, the 137, itself, is another emergency route. It should be fully opened (and
connected).
In 2014
Railroad Avenue - made usable, never used
Government Beach Road
Chain of Craters — started
liW4i1R]
Government Beach Road
Resolution No 732 — 18, November 20, 2018
RESOLUTION NO. 732-18
A RESOLUTION URGING THE COUNTY OF HAWAII TQ MAKE RECOVERING THOSE
SECTIONS OF COUNTY HIGHWAY 132 THAT WERE INUNDATED WITH LAVA FROM THE MAY
3, 2018 VOLCANIC ERUPTION A TOP PRIORITY IN PUNA' S RECOVERY EFFORTS, AND
COMMENCE PLANNING THE FUNDING AND ROUTING OF A REPLACEMENT ROAD AND
IMMEDIATE IMPLEMENTATION OF ALTERNATIVE ROUTES TO ACCOMMODATE RESIDENTS
OF AFFECTED COMMUNITIES.
As a CERT member I personally feel the need for an emergency plan that permanently addresses this issue.
Permanent Solution
Use Eminent Domain for Railroad Avenue, Cinder Road, Kehau Road, and any other private road(s) that
can be used as emergency routes.
Railroad Avenue exists as an emergency route (circa 2014 lava flow). It is 2/3 State of Hawaii lands and 1/3
private land (Kamehameha Schools / Bishop Estates Trust).
Cinder Road is a private road. We thank Lono Lyman of Kapoho Land and Development for allowing the
continuing use of Cinder Road after the Emergency Proclamations ended.
Bishop Estate Trust can NOT give an easement in perpetuity per their trust documents.
In the case of an emergency it would be prudent to have Cinder Road, Railroad Avenue, and Kehau Road
available to the public. It would be prudent to complete Chain of Craters.
There are other roads that should be included in this permanent solution. I would appreciate input from
others who know what roads (both private and public - especially those that need to be recovered from lava)
should be included
• Lower Leilani (to Pohoiki)
• Lighthouse Road (This requires working with the Native Hawaiians to be sensitive to the
cultural issues. Note: The "public" has already created a path to the new beach.)
• Restoration of Upper Hinalo
• Cinder Road --access to Railroad (Braja) See Emergency Routes above
HISTORY
2008 to 2011
Final Puna Community Development Plan
Contains the Final Puna CDP as adopted in September, 2008 and as amended in November 2010. Also, included in this folder are the Appendix
Community Documents (Small Group Results & Working Group Reports), Appendix Technical Documents and Appendix PB Americas
Documents.
Puna Commutmity Development Plan - September 2008 (As Amended November 2010, June 2011 & December 2011)
This is a printable version of the Puna CDP adotpted by Orindance 08-166 and amended by Ordinances 10-104, 11-51, 11-52, 11-53,
11-117 and 11-118.
https://www.hawaiicountycdp.info/ puna-cdp/draft-plan-recommendations
2013 until 2016
Connectivity and Emergency Response Subcommittee (CERSC)
This folder contains information pertinent to the CERS. This subcommittee is not currently meeting. (It stopped meeting in 2016.) The Mayor's
Puna Roads Committee is currently investigating the feasibility of implementing the work of the Connectivity and Emergency Response
Subcommittee.
https://www.hawaiicountycdp. info/puna-cdplinipleu►entation/sub-convii itties/connectivity-and-emergency-response-subcoinmittee-cersc
Currently the Puna Roads Connectivity group under the direction of Roy Takemoto is meeting. The next meeting is March 19, 2020 at 1:30pm.
The focus of the group is Upper Puna. There is nothing planned for Lower Puna. Patti Pinto is still in the group.
Connectivity and Emergency Response Subcommittee Contact Information
Chairperson: Marlene Hapai mhapaiC)aol.com AC Member: Patti Pinto pintonianfthotmail.com
https://www.hawaiicountvcdp.info/puna-cdp/implementatioii'sub-conummitties connectivity-and-einergency-response-subcommittee-
cersc/copy of 2016/cersc-contact-infonnatiott/cotmectivity-and-ewers,eimcy-response-subconmmittee-contact-nmfommation
http://records.co.hawa ii. ii.usiWebLink/PDF/zottcuxr4aOxvsgmawwrh-3xy/ 10/2016-
2 5°,i, 2 tlReport%20oN/o20the%2OAd%20Hoc%20Committee°/o20on%20Puna%20Connectivity%209.14.16.pdf
2014
Railroad Avenue - made usable, never used
Government Beach Road — made usable
Chain of Craters - started
2018
Government Beach Road
DPW Meeting on September 21, 2018 — Letter from Allan Simeon to Eileen O'Hara with attachments (regarding what roads are County or
County -maintained)
Email response from Eileen O'Hara, County District 4 (Attaclunents: Papio Petiton, further Government Beach Road / Papio Street re-
alignment information; over -view area map of who owns what roads / easements [ROW — right of way(s)]; detailed Papio Street map)
Resolution No 732 —18, November 20, 2018 (Proposed by Eileen O'Hara based on the above information)
SOLUTIONS
Temporary Solution
Give emergency access to Cinder Road / Railroad Avenue from the 137 through to Kahakai Blvd.
Give emergency access to Cinder Road / Railroad Avenue from the 137 through to Kehau Road through Nanawale Estates.
Provide keys to locks (or combination or alternative method)
I, Braja RuthAnne Tarletz, have been a member of CERT since October 20, 2018 and need to provide an emergency plan for Lower Puna.
(Hawai`i County CERT
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program provides residents and businesses alike with the basics in how to properly
prepare and respond to an emergency at home, at work, or in the community. Hawaii Island has 11 of the 13 climate zones of the world and
Hawaii County leads all 3,140 U.S. counties in multi hazards potential. Residents and businesses should be prepared, CERT addresses those
needs. Contact Us: Bill Hanson 808-935-0031
httns://www.liawaiicounty. ov/departments/civil-defeuse/liawai-i-county-cert)
We formed Pu'u'a Community and Road Association to be able to negotiate an emergency plan as we are all independent owners (there is no
Neighborhood Association) and ability to be able to buy insurance
Ability to be able to use Railroad Avenue to Hawaiian Beaches on an emergency basis, ie automobile accident (once), fire (twice), any other
natural disaster
It would be helpful for the members of our Association (and those properties on Railroad Avenue between Cinder Road and the Chow
Easement) if we could access Railroad Avenue going in the direction towards Hawaiian Beaches. Nothing or very little needs to be done to
make Railroad Avenue usable beyond what was done in 2014. The gates just need to be unlockable.
Permanent Solution
Use Eminent Domain for Railroad Avenue, Cinder Road, and Kehau Road (outside and through Nanawale Estates).
The road exists as an emergency route (circa 2014 lava flow). It is 2/3 State of Hawaii lands and 1/3 private land (Kamehameha Schools
Bishop Estates Trust).
We have no legal right to use Cinder Road. We thank Lono Lyman of Kapoho Land and Development for allowing, us to continue using Cinder
Road after the Emergency Proclamations ended. (Maps of Kapoho Land and Development)
We have a legal easement in our deeds for Railroad Avenue. (Railroad Easement language in deeds (page 3)
Bishop Estate Trust can NOT give an easement in perpetuity. (Elaine and I have talked to them)
In the case of an emergency it would be prudent to have Cinder Road and Railroad Avenue available to the public.
Tomorrow we could be completely locked in. Lono Lyman could re -gate Cinder Road and the lock is already in place on Railroad Avenue. We
cannot exit as we once did on what was called Noni Farms Road (again we used this route by the grace of the people to have the rights to use
the various parts) as it is under a minimum of 20' of lava. The only viable solution is to use Eminent Domain on these roads so that we (and
those that would be affected in an emergency) have a permanent route, safe route to use.
List of those one the Chow Easement on Pu'u'a Road
Map of Plats
Map of Chow Easement
Map of area
• Emergency Access and Lower Puna Connectivity
• Temporary Solution:
• Emergency Access from the 137 through Cinder Road to Railroad Avenue to Kahakai
Boulevard;
• Emergency Access from the 137 through Cinder Road to Railroad Avenue to Kehau Road
through Nanawale Estates.
• Permanent Solution:
• Use Eminent Domain for Cinder Road, Railroad Boulevard, and Kehau Road;
• Complete Chain of Craters Road.
Sylvia Luke, Chair, and the other Members of the Finance Committee:
My name is Braja RuthAnne Tarletz and I present this testimony representing myself, Puua Community and Road Association and Kehilat
Olam Ejad Ganim / Congregation Gaia Yoga Gardens / aka GaiaYoga Gardens.
The following my testimony is a timeline that is background to the reason I believe that Cinder Road and Railroad Avenue should be the
Alternate Route for Puma. I think it is important to understand what has recently gone on in Puna regarding this matter.
I first presented a temporary solution so that until the permanent solution could be done, we at least were not "lava -locked" and could get out
safely in the case of an emergency. The permanent solution is after that.
Please note:
Resolution No 732 — 18, November 20, 2018 (This resolution refers to the opening of Railroad Avenue as an emergency route.) I have the full
resolution available if needed.
Temporary Solution
CERT member — need an emergency plan
Hawaii County CERT
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program provides residents and businesses alike with the basics in how to properly
prepare and respond to an emergency at home, at work, or in the community. Hawaii Island has 11 of the 13 climate zones of the world and
Hawaii County leads all 3,140 U.S. counties in multi hazards potential. Residents and businesses should be prepared, CERT addresses those
needs. Contact Us: Bill Hanson 808-935-0031
Training through the CERT Program provides a learning platform in:
• basic disaster response
• fire safety
• light rescue
• team and responder coordination
• basic medical care
Using the skills and knowledge learned in the classroom and reinforcing those modules with practical application through role playing and
exercises, the CERT Program provides fundamental skills and understanding to make meaningful decisions in responding to incidents in your
community, your workplace, or at home.
CERT encourages community participation and provides support to emergency response organizations when the need arises.
CERT training is a 27 -hour certification course. Class attendance requires personal commitment as the course takes 4 consecutive Saturdays to
complete.
Thank you for your kind interest in the Hawaii County CERT Program.
https://www.hawaiicoun ov/departments/civil-defense/hawai-i-cotuity-cert
I, Braia RuthAnne Tarletz, have been a member of CERT since October 20, 2018.
Formed PuVa Community and Road Association to be able to negotiate an emergency plan as we are all independent owners (there is no
Neighborhood Association) and ability to be able to buy insurance
Ability to be able to use Railroad Avenue to Hawaiian Beaches on an emergency basis, ie automobile accident (twice), fire (thrice), any other
natural disaster
It would be helpful for the members of our Association (and those properties on Railroad Avenue between Cinder Road and the Chow
Easement) if we could access Railroad Avenue going in the direction towards Hawaiian Beaches. Nothing or very little needs to be done to
make Railroad Avenue usable beyond what was done in 2014. The gates just need to be unlockable.
Keys to locks (or combination or alternative method) — This is no longer viable as someone has put cinder blocks where the gate used to be
between the end of our Chow Easement on Railroad Avenue and (opps — the State of Hawaii land.)
List of those on the Chow Easement on PuVa Road - available upon request
Map of Plats - available upon request
Map of Chow Easement - available upon request
Map of area - available upon request
Permanent Solution
Use Eminent Domain for Railroad Avenue and Cinder Road. This testimony is presented from the point of view of those living off the Chow
Easement. However, it applies to all those living in Lower Puna. There would be access off the 137, the 132, and the 130.
The road exists as an emergency route (circa 2014 lava flow). It is 2/3 State of Hawaii lands and 1/3 private land (Kamehameha Schools /
Bishop Estates Trust) in the following order State of Hawaii — Bishop Estates Trust — State of Hawaii.
We have no legal right to use Cinder Road. We thank Lono Lyman of Kapoho Land and Development for allowing us to continue using Cinder
Road after the Emergency Proclamations ended.
Maps of Kapoho Land and Development - available upon request
We have a legal easement in our deeds for Railroad Avenue.
Railroad Easement language in deeds (page 3): "Together with an Easement of Way in common with others entitled thereto for ingress and
egress to and from the public roads and the land hereby demised over, along, and on the right-of-way formerly used and granted to the Old
Hawaii Consolidated Railway, LTD."
Bishop Estate Trust can NOT give an easement in perpetuity (Elaine O'Hara and I have talked to them.)
Tomorrow we could be completely locked in. Lono Lyman could re -gate Cinder Road and the lock is already in place on Railroad Avenue. We
cannot exit as we once did on what was called Noni Farms Road (again we used this route by the grace of the people to have the rights to use
the various parts) as it is under a minimum of 20' of lava. The only viable solution is to use Eminent Domain on these roads so that we (and
those that would be affected in an emergency) have a permanent route, safe route to use.
In the case of an emergency it would be prudent to have Cinder Road and Railroad Avenue available to the public.
TIMELINE
2008 to 2011
Final Puna Community Development Plan
Contains the Final Puna CDP as adopted in September, 2008 and as amended in November 2010. Also, included in this folder are the Appendix
Community Documents (Small Group Results & Working Group Reports), Appendix Technical Documents and Appendix PB Americas
Documents.
Puna Community Development Plan - September 2008 (As Amended November 2010. hme 2011 & December 2011
This is a printable version of the Puna CDP adotpted by Orindance 08-166 and amended by Ordinances 10-104, 11-51, 11-52, 11-53, 11-117
and 11-118. The above listed ordinances are posted separately in the same folder as this document. Hardcopies are available for viewing at the
Hilo and Kona offices of the Planning Department. Hardcopies and CD copies have been provided to public libraries in Hilo, Pahoa, Keaau and
Mountain View. Unbound print copies of the Puna CDP can be ordered from the Hilo office of the Planning Department at a cost of $9.90 per
copy. CD Copies (including all appendix documents) are available at $5.00 each. To order print or CD copies call the Planning Department at
961-8288 or email at planning@)hawaiicounty.gov.
https://www.hawaiicomtycdl). info/ ptuia-cdp/draft-plan-recommendations
2013 until 2016
Connectivity and Emergency Response Subcommittee (CERSC)
This folder contains information pertinent to the CERS. This subcommittee is not currently meeting. (It stopped meeting in 2016.) The Mayor's
Puna Roads Committee is currently investigating the feasibility of implementing the work of the Connectivity and Emergency Response
Subcommittee.
https://www.hawaiicootycdp info puna-cdp/implementation/sub-committies/connectivity _and-emergency-response-subcommittee-cersc
Currently the Puna Roads Connectivity group under the direction of Roy Takemoto is meeting. The next meeting is March 19, 2020 at 1:30pm.
The focus of the group is Upper Puna. There is nothing planned for Lower Puna. Patti Pinto is still in the group.
Connectivity and Emergency Response Subcommittee Contact Information
Chairperson: Marlene Hapai mhapai a?aol.com AC Member: Patti Pinto pintonianLy hotmail.com
htips://wNvw. hawaiicowitycdp. info/puna-cdp/implementation/sub-coinmittics/coimectivity-and-emergency-response-subcoinniittec-
cersc/copy of 2016/cersc-contact-infonnation/connectivity-and-emergency-response-subcoininittee-contact-infonnation
http:/records.co.hawaii.W.us[WebLink/PDF/zottcuxr4a0xvsgmawwrh3xy/10/2016-
25%20Report%20otl/o20the%20Ad%20Hoc%20Comtnittee4b20on%20Puna%20Connectivity%209.14.16.pdf
2014
Railroad Avenue - made usable, never used
Government Beach Road - not done at this time
Chain of Craters - started
2018
Government Beach Road - paved
Resolution No 732 — 18, November 20, 2018 (This resolution refers to the opening of Railroad Avenue as an emergency route.) I have the full
resolution available if needed.
2008 to 2011
Final Puna Community Development Plan
Contains the Final Puna CDP as adopted in September, 2008 and as amended in November 2010. Also, included in this folder are the Appendix
Community Documents (Small Group Results & Working Group Reports), Appendix Technical Documents and Appendix PB Americas
Documents.
Puna Community Development Plan - September 2008 (As Amended November 2010, June 2011 & December 2011)
This is a printable version of the Puna CDP adotpted by Orindance 08-166 and amended by Ordinances 10-104, 11-51, 11-52, 11-53,
11-117 and 11-118. The above listed ordinances are posted separately in the same folder as this document. Hardcopies are available
for viewing at the Hilo and Kona offices of the Planning Department. Hardcopies and CD copies have been provided to public
libraries in Hilo, Pahoa, Keaau and Mountain View. Unbound print copies of the Puna CDP can be ordered from the Hilo office of the
Planning Department at a cost of $9.90 per copy. CD Copies (including all appendix documents) are available at $5.00 each. To order
print or CD copies call the Planning Department at 961-8288 or email at planninged hawaiicounty.gov.
liiips://www.hawaiicomtyc dp. info/ptuna-cdp/draft-plan-recommendations
2013 until 2016
Connectivity and Emergency Response Subcommittee (CERSC)
This folder contains information pertinent to the CERS. This subcommittee is not currently meeting. (It stopped meeting in 2016.) The Mayor's
Puna Roads Committee is currently investigating the feasibility of implementing the work of the Connectivity and Emergency Response
Subconunittee.
https://wwnw.hawaiicountycdp. info/puna-cdp/implementation/sub-committies/connectivity-and-emergency-response-subcommittee-cersc
Currently the Puna Roads Connectivity group under the direction of Roy Takemoto is meeting. The next meeting is March 19, 2020 at 1:30pm.
The focus of the group is Upper Puna. There is nothing planned for Lower Puna. Patti Pinto is still in the group.
Connectivity and Emergency Response Subcommittee Contact Information
Chairperson: Marlene Hapai mhapai&aol.com AC Member: Patti Pinto pintonia&hotmail.com
https://www bawaiicoimgcdp info/puna-cdp/implementation/sub-committies/connectivity-and-emergency-response-subcomniittee-
cerse/copv of 2016/cersc-contact-infonnationlconnectivity-and-ennergency-response-subcoimmittee-contact-information
http://records.co.hawaii.hi.tis/W ebLink/PDF/zottctw4a0xvsgmawwrli3xy/ 10/2016-
25%20Report%20otl/o20the%20Ad%20Hoc%20Committee%20on%20Puna%20Connectivity%209.14.16.pdf
2014
Railroad Avenue - trade usable, never used
Government Beach Road
Chain of Craters - started
2018
Government Beach Road - paved
Resolution No 732 — 18, November 20, 2018
Temporary Solution
CERT member — need an emergency plan
Hawaii County CERT
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program provides residents and businesses alike with the basics in how to properly
prepare and respond to an emergency at home, at work, or in the community. Hawaii Island has 11 of the 13 climate zones of the world and
Hawaii County leads all 3,140 U.S. counties in multi hazards potential. Residents and businesses should be prepared, CERT addresses those
needs. Contact Us: Bill Hanson 808-935-0031
Training through the CERT Program provides a learning platform in:
• basic disaster response
• fire safety
• light rescue
• team and responder coordination
• basic medical care
Using the skills and knowledge learned in the classroom and reinforcing those modules with practical application through role playing and
exercises, the CERT Program provides fundamental skills and understanding to make meaningful decisions in responding to incidents in your
community, your workplace, or at home.
CERT encourages community participation and provides support to emergency response organizations when the need arises.
CERT training is a 27 -hour certification course. Class attendance requires personal commitment as the course takes 4 consecutive Saturdays to
complete.
Thank you for your kind interest in the Hawaii County CERT Program.
httys://www.hawaiicoiultgov/departments/civil-defense/hawai-i-county-cert
I, Braja RuthArme Tarletz, have been a member of CERT since October 20, 2018.
Formed Pu'u'a Community and Road Association to be able to negotiate an emergency plan as we are all independent owners (there is no
Neighborhood Association) and ability to be able to buy insurance
Ability to be able to use Railroad Avenue to Hawaiian Beaches on an emergency basis, ie automobile accident (once), fire (twice), any other
natural disaster
It would be helpful for the members of our Association (and those properties on Railroad Avenue between Cinder Road and the Chow
Easement) if we could access Railroad Avenue going in the direction towards Hawaiian Beaches. Nothing or very little needs to be done to
make Railroad Avenue usable beyond what was done in 2014. The gates just need to be utilockable.
Keys to locks (or combination or alterative method) — This is no longer viable as someone has put cinder blocks where the gate used to be
between the end of our Chow Easement on Railroad Avenue and
List of those on the Chow Easement on Pu'u'a Road
Map of Plats
Map of Chow Easement
Map of area
Permanent Solution
Use Eminent Domain for Railroad Avenue and Cinder Road
The road exists as an emergency route (circa 2014 lava flow). It is 2/3 State of Hawaii lands and 1/3 private land (Kamehameha Schools /
Bishop Estates Trust) in the following order State of Hawaii — Bishop Estates Trust — State of Hawaii.
We have no legal right to use Cinder Road. We thank Lono Lyman of Kapoho Land and Development for allowing us to continue using Cinder
Road after the Emergency Proclamations ended.
Maps of Kapoho Land and Development
We have a legal easement in our deeds for Railroad Avenue.
Railroad Easement language in deeds (page 3): "Together with an Easement of Way in common with others entitled thereto for ingress and
egress to and from the public roads and the land hereby deon the right-of-way formerly used and granted to the Old Hawaii Consolidated
Railway, LTD."
Bishop Estate Trust can NOT give an easement in perpetuity (Elaine O'Hara and I have talked to them.)
Tomorrow we could be completely locked in. Lono Lyman could re -gate Cinder Road and the lock is already in place on Railroad Avenue. We
cannot exit as we once did on what was called Noni Farms Road (again we used this route by the grace of the people to have the rights to use
the various parts) as it is under a minimum of 20' of lava. The only viable solution is to use Eminent Domain on these roads so that we (and
those that would be affected in an emergency) have a permanent route, safe route to use.
HAWAII EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
The Hawai'i Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) is the emergency management agency for the State of Hawaii. In its headquarters in
Diamond Head Crater, Hawaii EMA serves as the coordinating agency between the four county emergency management agencies (Hawai`i
County Civil Defense, Maui County Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), City and County of Honolulu Department of Emergency
Management, and Kauai Emergency Management Agency) and as State Warning Point.
In accordance with the National Incident Management System (NIMS), all disaster response starts at the county level. Hawaii EMA responds to
county requests for state assistance and supplements county emergency management efforts. When a disaster response effort exceeds the
capabilities of a county, Hawaii EMA may recommend a State Emergency Proclamation from the Governor.
This proclamation can activate the State Emergency Response Team (SERT), which is made up of state employees, and/or allow the State
Department of Defense to place the Hawai'i Army and Air National Guard on State Active Duty. A Governor's emergency proclamation may
also suspend certain state laws, enabling a quick and effective emergency response.
Emergency response is only one of the functions of Hawaii EMA. The five core capabilities that guide Hawaii EMA are Prevention, Protection,
Mitigation, Response, and Recovery. The branches in the Hawaii EMA organization address these capabilities. These branches are
Preparedness, Operations, Telecommunications, Logistics, and Finance/Administration.
State Warning Point uses the Hawai'i Warning System (HAWAS) to transmit and receive emergency message to and from the Emergency
Operations Center (EOC) and warning point for each county. State Wanting Point is also part of the National Waning System (NAWAS),
which connects over 22,000 emergency managers and the National Weather Service.
h!lps://dod.hawaii.gov/hiema/contact-iis/abotit-us/
Mission and Values
Our Mission
The mission of Hawaii Emergency Management Agency is to help the Hawaii Ohana prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters and
emergencies.
Our Values
Hawaii Emergency Management Agency staff are guided by our core values
• Malaria — To care for or protect
• Po`okela — Commitment to excellence
Wiwo`ole — Courage
https://dod.hawaii.gov/hiema/contact-us/about-us/mission/
Types of Disaster
Click on the titles belotir to learnt more about the different lvpes of disasters.
Hurricane Tsunami Flash Flood Earthquake Wildfire
PLEASE NOTE THAT VOLCANIC ERUPTION IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF DISASTERS.
https://dod.hawaii. gov/hienia/public-resources/types-of-disaster/
https://dod.liawaii. govihiema/sert-resources/plans-and-l)lamiing-resources/
littps://dod.hawaii.gov/hiema/files/2019/01/SESF-2-ANNEX.FfNAL .01-2019.pdf
Hawaii County CERT
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program provides residents and businesses alike with the basics in how to properly
prepare and respond to an emergency at home, at work, or in the community.
Hawaii Island has 11 of the 13 climate zones of the world and Hawaii County leads all 3,140 U.S. counties in multi hazards potential.
Residents and businesses should be prepared, CERT addresses those needs.
Contact Us: Bill Hanson 808-935-0031
Training through the CERT Program provides a learning platform in:
• basic disaster response
• fire safety
• light rescue
• team and responder coordination
• basic medical care
Using the skills and knowledge learned in the classroom and reinforcing those modules with practical application through role playing and
exercises, the CERT Program provides fundamental skills and understanding to make meaningful decisions in responding to incidents in your
community, your workplace, or at home.
CERT encourages community participation and provides support to emergency response organizations when the need arises.
CERT training is a 27 -hour certification course. Class attendance requires personal commitment as the course takes 4 consecutive Saturdays to
complete.
Thank you for your kind interest in the Hawaii County CERT Program.
htips://www.hawaiicounty. og v/departments/civil-defense/hawai-i-corm -cert
I, Braja RuthAnne Tarletz, have been a member of CERT since October 20, 2018.
Emergency Preparedness
All Hazards Preparedness
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Final Puna Community Development Plan
Contains the Final Puna CDP as adopted in September, 2008 and as amended in November 2010. Also, included in this folder are the Appendix
Community Documents (Small Group Results & Working Group Reports), Appendix Technical Documents and Appendix PB Americas
Documents.
APuna Community Development Plan - September 2008 (As Amended November 2010 June 2011 & December 2011)
This is a printable version of the Puma CDP adotpted by Orindance 08-166 and amended by Ordinances 10-104, 11-51, 11-52, 11-53,
11-117 and 11-118. The above listed ordinances are posted separately in the same folder as this document. Hardcopies are available
for viewing at the Hilo and Kona offices of the Planning Department. Hardcopies and CD copies have been provided to public
libraries in Hilo, Pahoa, Keaau and Mountain View. Unbound print copies of the Puna CDP can be ordered from the Hilo office of the
Planning Department at a cost of $9.90 per copy. CD Copies (including all appendix documents) are available at $5.00 each. To order
print or CD copies call the Planning Department at 961-8288 or email at plannning(q)hawaiicounty.gov.
https://www.hawaiicountycdp info/puna-cdp/draft-plan-recommendations
https://www.hawaiicountvcdp info/puna-cdp/draft-plan-recommendations/1%20%20Puna%20CDP%20aiueuded%20Nov-
2011.pdf/at download/file
Connectivity and Emergency Response Subcommittee (CERSC)
This folder contains information pertinent to the CERS. This subcommittee is not currently meeting. (It stopped meeting in 2016.) The Mayor's
Puna Roads Committee is currently investigating the feasibility of implementing the work of the Connectivity and Emergency Response
Subcommittee.
https://www.hawaiicotmtycdp. info/puna-cdpliLnplemetitation/sub-comuii tt iesl'connectiviiy-and-emergency-respptise-subcommittee-cersc
Currently the Puna Roads Connectivity group under the direction of Roy Takemoto is meeting. The next meeting is March 19, 2020 at 1:30pm.
The focus of the group is Upper Puna. There is nothing planned for Lower Puna. Patti Pinto is still in the group.
Connectivity and Emergency Response Subcommittee Contact Information
Chairperson: Marlene Hapai mhapai(d)aolxom AC Member: Patti Pinto pintonian(a>hotmail.com
https://www.hawaiicotmtycdp info/puma-cdp/implementation/sub-coimnitties/connectivity-and-emergency-response-subcommittee-
cersc/copy of 2016/cersc-contact-unfonnation/comnectivity-and-emergency-response-subcommittee-contact-infonnation
http://records.co.liawaii.W.us/WebLink/PDF/zottcuxr4a0xvsgmaww,d 3xy/10/2016-
2 5%20Report%20oP/o20the%20Ad%20H oc%20Committee%20on%20Puna%20Comiec tiv ity%209.14.16. pd f
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interested parties. Each county in the state has an LEPC.
LEPCs serve as focal points in communities for information about hazardous substances, emergency planting measures, and health and
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• LEPC Agenda and Minutes
Our Role
The role of the Hawaii LEPC is to form partnerships with: local governments, communities, academia and industries as a resource for
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Home » 2018 Kilauea Eruption, Infonnation and News Releases, News Stories » Hawaii Island eruption leads to evacuation of Leilani Estates
Hawaii Island eruption leads to evacuation of Leilani Estates
Posted on May 3, 2018 in 2018 Kilauea Eruption, Information and News Releases, News Stories
Hawaii Island eruption leads to evacuation of Leilani Estates May 3, 2018 2018-0503A
HAWAII ISLAND — Hawaii County Civil Defense has called for an evacuation of all residents of the Leilani Estates subdivision on Hawaii
Island as a result of steam and lava emissions in the area of Mohala Street.
The intersection of Highway 132 and Pohoiki Road had been closed to allow evacuations to proceed.
The Pahoa Regional Community Center near the new Pahoa Regional Park is open as a shelter. Evacuating residents should being emergency
evacuation supplies, including food, medicines, and items necessary for personal comfort, if possible.
Puna Geothermal Venture has begun executing its emergency plan and is commencing shutdown procedures.
Hawaii County Civil Defense, police, fire, and partners continue to assist evacuation efforts and monitor the situation. Addition information
will be provided as available.
###
Contact:
Richard Rapoza, Public Information Officer
richard.d.rapozaLa)hawaii. ov
808-392-0780
Arlina Agbayani, Public Relations Officer
arlina.a.agbayani a)hawaii.gov
808-620-5423
Hawaii Emergency Management Agency
HawaiiEMA(a)hawa ii. eov
https:Hdod.hawaii. gov/hiemalhawaii-island-eruption-leads-to-evacuation-of-leilani-estates/
Puna Community Briefed on Evacuations, Communications & Preparedness
By Crystal Richard May 31, 2018, 7:36 AM HST (Updated May 31, 2018, 9:46 AM)
Emergency officials updated residents on the status of evacuation orders, evacuation routes, conum mications and personal preparedness during
the Puna community meeting at the Pahoa High School Cafeteria on May 29, 2018.
Mayor Harry Kim began the meeting by asking the community to "pull back on some of their concerns."
He announced that those in the restricted evacuation area in Leilani Estates need to heed warnings because they no longer send in first
responders to the restricted evacuation zone.
Evacuation Status
Only residents can use the freshly paved one -lane Government Beach Road. Non-residents of lower Puna are asked to avoid this area as this
serves now as the only route for a large community.
Civil Defense Administrator Talmadge Magno gave residents an update on routes in and out of lower Puna.
• Highway 130 is still open.
• USGS is monitoring the cracks on Highway 130.
• The area of Kapoho Beach Lots and Vacationland residents to evacuate due to the possibility of having access cut off.
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported that lava from several fissures continues to move through Leilani Estates, Lanipuna Gardens and
toward the Kapoho area.
Residents of Kapoho Beach Lots and Vacationland are advised to evacuate due to the possibility of lava cutting off access to Beach Road near
Four Comers.
Residents are reminded that due to the volcanic activity the following policies are in effect:
Beach Road from Four Corners to Hawaiian Beaches is restricted to resident access only, between 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.. to allow continued
evacuations.
Highway 132 is closed.
Leilani Estates residents with approved credentials can enter at 7 a.m. but must leave by 6 p.m. This curfew is strictly enforced for
your safety. A mandatory evacuation is in effect past Pomaikai Street.
An orange glow fills the night sky from the lava flow in the Lower East Rift Zone of Kilauea Volcano on May 29, 2018, on Luana Street in
Leilani Estates on Hawaii Island. PC: Crystal Richard.
USGS Lower East Rift Zone
Steve Bradley from USGS informed residents that Fissure 8 is feeding the flow crossing over Highway 132 and the Puna Geothermal Venture
property.
An `a`a flow crossed 132 early afternoon May 29, 2018.
Fissure 19, 20 and 18 continue to be active.
Fissure 18 is generating a new channelized lava flow moving towards the east.
Wendy Stovall of USGS-HVO said it was the rapid advance rate of the lava that caused Hawaii County Civil Defense to decide to evacuate all
of Lower Puna to ensure people can get out because they are afraid Beach Road will be cut off by lava.
A Fissure 18 flow is heading downslope to the south, which is now tracking the steepest line of decent, which takes it through the warm ponds.
Stovall said Fissure 8 is putting out only Pu'u `0`6 magma now. There is no longer a mixture of the old flows coming to the surface.
Stovall said the flow front could go through Vacationland, but at this time could not say if it would be the north or south end.
A D9, D 10 and a compactor on Highway 130 head out to Chain of Craters Road for construction of an emergency evacuation route in case lava
cuts off roadways into lower Puma on May 29, 2018. PC: Crystal Richard.
Evacuation Routes
The Hawaii Department of Transportation said a D 10 and D9 and a compactor have started work on Chain of Craters Road. The department
expects to complete the project in four days.
There will be an additional road made available on what DOT referred to as "Sanford's property," where the quarry is located, as well as an
alternate route—Alaili Drive.
During the news media brief May 30, 2018, Jessica Fenacane, information officer for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, said the national park
and DOT signed an agreement for the use and constriction of an emergency evacuation route via Chain of Craters Road should Highway 130
be cut off by the eruption.
Fenacane said they are working on removing a .7 mile wide section of solidified lava from the 2016-17 61g lava flow.
Questions in the community arose over a reported "hotspot," but USGS said that it is not a hotspot but the area where a lava tube runs. USGS
said that their recommendations were to not cut too deep into the road, as they did back in 2014 when the emergency route was made when
lava threatened Pahoa.
The gravel route will be only for one direction of traffic, heading out.
She addressed concerns over keeping invasive species such as the little red fire ant and coqui frogs out of the national park.
Mitigations for nene living in the area are in place.
No public or media access will be permitted while the park remains closed.
Fissure 8 from Luana Street on May 30, 2018. PC: Crystal Richard
Hawaii Electric Light Company
Jay Ignacio from HELCO said, "It's been a long weekend for Hawaii Electric Light Company."
Lava crossing Highway 132 caused damage to a power line going down to Kapoho. They do not have plans currently to repair it. Although
generators are on site, they are not ready to deploy. They don't want to put them in with the likelihood of lava inundating the area later.
May 29, HELCO de -energized the Kapoho substation because the lava got too close.
Ignacio assured residents there is enough generation to maintain adequate supplies of power after losing the supply from PGV.
PGV & Related Hazards
Special Task Force Leader Tom Travis informed residents that access to PGV is covered by lava.
"When I came here, lava was on the property of PGV," said Travis.
PGV lost all the utilities facilities.
• Travis outlined the goals of the task force and explained how each goal was met:Remove hazardous material: pentane.
• Process clear: use of nitrogen to push out and then suck out the gases.
• Capping a well: closing the upper master valves on May 3.
• Quench all wells: used cold water to remove the pressure of the well.
• Reduce profile on the wells: production wells vs injection wells—production wells were of most concems.
• Travis showed residents a list of the PGV wells and the steps completed. All injection wells were plugged.
Department of Water
Work on the Kapoho well continues. however, it will take two to three more days to install equipment and allow the well to fill.
Residents are asked to continue to conserve and use water wisely to keep this source as long as possible.
Leilani Avenue near Fissure 8 is covered with lava rocks and Pele's Hair, May 29, 2018, at 6:50 p.m. PC: Crystal Richard
Pele's Hair, SO2 and Ash
Despite requests for information and concerns expressed by the community, Fenix Grange said that no data was available for the public at this
time.
DOH is working with Civil Defense to closely monitor the air quality.
Grange explained Mayor Kim came up with a color -coding system for the air monitoring.
• Blue: stay alert
• Orange: shelter and get plans together
• Red: ready to go, listen to radio
In the last 48 hours, Pele's Hair has been found in Pahoa and in Leilani Estates.
Pele's Hair is caused when hot magma is ejected into the air. The fine glass particles cool quickly and fall down wind of splatter cones.
Grange said its best to avoid exposure to Pele's Hair. She warned it can cause irritation to skin, eyes and airways.
Though the N-95 mask won't protect against SO2, they do protect from particulate in the air, such as Pele's Hair.
Communication/Warning Systems
Hawaiian Telcom Representative Wally Wong assured attendees that Hawaiian Telcom, AT&T and Verizon were all doing their best to keep
communications open for residents and first responders.
Wong said the focus is on Highway 130 and 132 fiber feeds that branch off to the subdivisions.
"We have a solution to connect radios across the lava, explained Wong. He said they are waiting for the flow front to calm down before they
proceed.
The lava from Fissure 8 crossed Highway 132 in the early afternoon of May 29, 2018. The lava crossing the highway meant that many in lower
Puna were without telephone services.
Personal Preparedness
• Residents close to any volcanic activity should remain alert and be prepared to voluntarily evacuate if necessary.
• Know your evacuation routes and have an emergency plan.
• Keep your radio on at all times.
• Sign up for Civil Defense Blackboard messaging.
Mayor Kim closed the meeting by assuring residents: "I mean it. We will get through this."
The next meeting is Tuesday, June 5, 2018, at 5 p.m. at Pahoa High School Cafeteria. The meeting will be shown live on Na Leo Channel 55
and live -streamed online.
Crystal Richard
Crystal Richard moved to East Hawai'i in 2005 to attend UH Hilo. While earning her bachelor's degree in English and a certificate to teach
English as a second language, Crystal served as the editor-in-chief of "Hohonu," UH Hilo's academic. journal, and as assistant editor-in-chief at
"KeKalahea," UH Hilo's student newspaper. From a young age, Crystal fell in love with the written word and has always dreamed of a career
in journalism. She has worked as a Big Island Now freelance reporter since September 2016. She is a wellness and health advocate who enjoys
swimming, gardening, reading and spending time with her animals and loved ones.