HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0559.014 2022-2024P / OEAC,
ties.'9A-23
Comm 5`A
From: - lisa -
Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2023 9:27 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: YES on resolution 330-23
Dear Members of Our County Council
As a resident of Puna,1 am in support of protecting our valuable 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 on 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, 507 c(3).
Mahalo for your true consideration.
Lisa Tucker
Comm. No.
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