HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0559.009 2022-2024P /GCEAC-
ReS. 33�-23
coNlw 559
From: lynnpelletier3
Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2023 6:25 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: YES on Resolution 330-23
Dear County Council,
As a resident of Puna, I am in support of protecting ourvaluable Coastal and cultural resources, especially since there are so
few of them left after the 2018 flow. That eruption graced Kumukahi with a five year sanctuary period, during which up to 12
endangered species have had relatively human -free access and during which comprehensive ethnographic information about
Kumukahi's pivotal importance has been published. From a Hawaiian cultural perspective, Kumukahi is imbued with
significance, containing multiple sacred sites and cemeteries. As the place where the sun's rays first meet the islands —and as
a traditional place of healing—Kumukahi has for decades been the setting where hundreds of people have attended seasonal
observances and, recently, two Maui vigils. It is only right that protection of these valuable places be of utmost priority in the
process of establishing pono access protocols going into the future.
This resolution is a good start, identifying the unique opportunity to honor requests from Native Hawaiian Organizations,
recognized lineal descendants, and the County administration's own commitment to ensure that "appropriate management
measures are in place." 330-23 also aligns with FEMAs serious consideration of analysis that Kumukahi qualifies as a Historic
District eligible for nomination an the National Register. Finally, this resolution also sets in motion key funding mechanisms for
both development of a comprehensive preservation/management plan, and, crucially, its implementation. I look forward to
seeing the County Council's continuing support as this initiative progresses in coordination with all relevant stakeholders,
under the time -tested and capable management of Ho'oulu Lahui, 501c(3).
Aloha,
Lynn P
Comm. No S A
RoF. To:VL
Ref. Date OCT 3 1 11'23