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COM 0628.000 2022-2024
oJ�/V of yaq Lee E.Lord * - t Managing Director Mitchell D.Roth Mayor • �_ w o�� Robert H.Command rF OF N Deputy Managing Director Liuuf r of Painail ®ffirr of flj tturur 25 Aupuni Street,Suite 2603 • Hilo,Hawai`i 96720 • (808)961-8211 • Fax(808)961-6553 KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy.,Bldg C • Kailua-Kona,Hawai`i 96740 (808)323-4444 • Fax(808)323-4440 November 17, 2023 Qc-) =Ca The Honorable Heather Kimball, Chairperson, and Members of the Hawai'i County Council --- - + 25 Aupuni Street Hilo,Hawai'i 96720 Re: 2023 Annual Report to the Mayor from the Department of Finance and the Public Access, Operj S'pac4 -... and Natural Resources Preservation Commission(PONC) Dear Chairperson Kimball and Council Members: Pursuant to Section 2-218 of the Hawaii County Code, I am transmitting herewith my comments and recommendations on the PONC's 2023 Annual Report to the Mayor with the 2023 Prioritized List. To date, the County has acquired 10,343.857 acres consisting of approx. 5,537.487 acres in Conservation Easements and 4,806.37 acres in fee simple, which will remain in open space protection in perpetuity, funded with the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund (FUND) in accordance with Hawai`i County Charter(HCC) 10-15. SUMMARY OF AUTHORIZED LAND ACQUISITIONS Through prior resolutions, the County Council has authorized the Finance Director to enter into land negotiations to acquire the most recent parcels with resolutions approved by the County Council is summarized below for 2023: Resol.No. Property Description, District, and Tax Map Key No. (TMK) 141-2023 Historic 88 Temples Walk,North Kona,Hawai`i. TMK(3) 7-6-004:003. 263-2023 Pepeekeo, Hilo, Hawai`i. TMK(3)2-8-008:100. STATUS OF FUNDS Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Fund, and Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Maintenance Fund Comm: No.::�01�i Ref.To: CR(V G County of Hawai`i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. Ref. Dote:_ 'NV 2 0 2023 Honorable Heather Kimball,Chair and Members of the Hawai`i County Council November 17, 2023 Page 2 of 2 For the benefit of the County Council, I have attached a summary of both funds and all monies deposited and disbursed from January 1, 2023, through October 31, 2023. RECOMMENDATIONS Finally, as my formal recommendation in connection with what has been submitted by the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission, I recommend that the County Council accept the list as presented by the Commission. 2023 Prioritized List: No. % Sugg. Nomination Tax Map Key No. 1 95.71 23-01 `Anaeho`omalu Kapalaoa,North Kona (3) 7-1-003:010 2 85.29 23-02 Punahoa Heritage Forest, South Hilo (3) 2-5-001:011 3 75.57 23-04 Ke Ala Kahawai o Waimea, South Kohala Portion of 49 parcels, approx. (The Waimea Trail) 11,458.82 acres. (Ch 1.3) CONCLUSION This marks the 17th Annual Report submitted by the Department of Finance and PONC. The commissioners have invested quality time and effort into reviewing and considering the various parcels of land nominated by the public and developing the Prioritized List. I would also like to thank our county support staff: -Ms. Jean Campbell,Deputy Corporation Counsel, and Mr. Hamana Ventura, Property Manager. I would like to send a heartfelt appreciation to Ms. Maxine Cutler, Commission Secretary and Property Management Technician,for her dedication to this program and for working with our communities,stakeholders, and non-profit organizations, With Aloha, Mitchell D. Roth MAYOR Attachments: ➢ Summary of the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Fund • Summary of the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Maintenance Fund ➢ 2023 Annual Report to the Mayor dated November 17, 2023 (10 copies) County of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. County of Hawaii Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Fund Accounting Report (as of October 31, 2023) Date Description Deposit Expenditure Balance Jan '23 End of the Year Balance Fwd. 21,215,359.24 Jan '23 Real Property Tax 43,952.95 21,259,312.19 Jan '23 Real Property Tax 961,154.80 22,220,466.99 Jan '23 Adj. Salary and Wages 155.72 22,220,622.71 Feb '23 Real Property Tax 44,148.17 22,264,770.88 Feb '23 Acquisition: Halawa, N. Kohala, Hawai'i TMK No.: (3) 5-2-007:026 2,455,654.20 19,809,116.68 Feb '23 Escrow Refund for 25.00 19,809,141.68 Feb '23 Salary and Wages 155.72 19,808,985.96 Feb '23 Salary and Wages 155.72 19,808,830.24 Feb '23 Salary and Wages 311.44 19,808,518.80 Feb '23 Real Property Tax 42,740.50 19,851,259.30 Mar '23 Real Property Tax 3,530,354.15 23,381,613.45 Mar '23 Real Property Tax 47,879.39 23,429,492.84 Apr '23 Salary and Wages 155.72 23,429,337.12 Apr '23 ACM Consultats Inc (Halelua, N. Kohala) 4,500.00 23,424,837.12 Apr '23 Real Property Tax 48,864.36 23,473,701.48 May '23 Salary and Wages 311.44 23,473,390.04 May '23 Salary and Wages 155.72 23,473,234.32 May '23 Real Property Tax 52,299.27 23,525,533.59 Jun '23 Salary and Wages 311.44 23,525,222.15 Jun '23 Escrow Dep. for Helelua, N. Kohala, Hawai'i. TMK No.: (3) 5-3-007:010 50,000.00 23,475,222.15 Jul '23 Salary and Wages 233.58 23,474,988.57 Salary and Wages 311.44 23,474,677.13 Jul '23 Escrow Dep.for Keahou Bay, N. Kona, Hawai'i. TMK No.: (3) 7-8-012:106 50,000.00 23,424,677.13 Jul '23 Escrow Dep. for Keahou Bay, N. Kona, Hawai'i. TMK No.: (3) 7-8-012:035 50,000.00 23,374,677.13 Jul '23 Salary and Wages 654.08 23,374,023.05 Jul '23 Real Property Tax 52,503.42 23,426,526.47 Aug '23 Salary and Wages 327.04 23,426,199.43 Aug '23 Salary and Wages 327.04 23,425,872.39 Aug '23 Real Property Tax 53,377.83 23,479,250.22 Aug '23 Salary and Wages 367.92 23,479,618.14 Sep '23 Real Property Tax 51,356.99 23,530,975.13 Sep '23 Acquisition: Halelua , N. Kohala, Hawai'i TMK No.: (3) 5-3-007:010 2,185,577.01 21,345,398.12 Oct '23 Escrow Refund for Halelua, N. Kohala 127.00 21,345,525.12 Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. Page 1 of 2 County of Hawai'i Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Fund Accounting Report (as of October 31, 2023) Date Description Deposit Expenditure Balance Oct '23 Salary and Wages 858.38 21,344,666.74 Oct '23 Salary and Wages 817.60 21,343,849.14 Ending Balance for October 2023 Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. Page 2 of 2 County of Hawai'i Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Maintenance Fund Accounting Report as of October 31, 2023 Date Vendor Description Deposit Expenditure Balance Jan '23 Balance Fwd. 31-Dec-22 2,753,244.49 Jan '23 Real Property Tax 54,108.73 2,807,353.22 Jan '23 Real Property Tax 120,144.35 2,927,497.57 Jan '23 Kona Lua, Inc O'oma, N. Kona Jan. 23 900.00 2,926,597.57 Jan '23 Hawaii John's Inc Kawa, Kau Jan. '23 1,333.33 2,925,264.24 Jan '23 Real Property Tax 5,456.51 2,930,720.75 Jan '23 3C Goat Grazing Puapua'a, N. Kona 13,234.30 2,917,486.45 Feb '23 Kona Lua, Inc O'oma, N. Kona Feb. '23 900.00 2,916,586.45 Feb '23 Hawaii John's Inc Kawa, Kau Feb. '23 1,333.33 2,915,253.12 Feb '23 Townscape Inc Waikapuna Mgmt. Plan 4,000.00 2,911,253.12 Feb '23 Ina Custom Signs Signs for properties 841.88 2,910,411.24 Feb '23 Real Property Tax 5,282.53 2,915,693.77 Feb '23 Friends of Amy B.H. Stewardship Grant for Amy Greenwell Greenwell Botanical Gardens,S. Kona for 2021 Gardens 95,804.50 2,819,889.27 Feb '23 Ho'omalu Ka'u Stewardship Grant for Kahua Olohu, Ka'u for 2021 15,812.51 2,804,076.76 Feb '23 3C Goat Grazing La'aloa, N. Kona 15,855.19 2,788,221.57 Mar'23 Hawaii John's Inc Kawa, Kau Mar. '23 1,333.34 2,786,888.23 Mar'23 Kona Lua, Inc O'oma, N. Kona Mar. '23 900.00 2,785,988.23 Mar'23 Townscape Inc Waikapuna Mgmt. Plan 4,000.00 2,781,988.23 Mar'23 Na Mamo 0 Kawa Stewardship Grant for Kawa/Kawa Bay, Kau for 2021 52,445.80 2,729,542.43 Mar'23 Oahu Publishing Inc Public Notice:Waikapuna Mgmt Plan Community Mtg. 800.83 2,728,741.60 Mar'23 Real Property Tax 441,294.27 3,170,035.87 Mar'23 Real Property Tax 5,917.68 3,175,953.55 Apr'23 Hawaii John's Inc Kawa, Kau Apr. '23 1,333.34 3,174,620.21 Apr'23 Na Maka Haloa 0 Waipio Stewardship Grant for Pohoiki, Puna for 2021 119,519.00 3,055,101.21 Apr'23 Townscape Inc Waikapuna Mgmt. Plan 5,000.00 3,050,101.21 Apr'23 3C Goat Grazing Puapua'a, N. Kona 13,234.29 3,036,866.92 Apr'23 Real Property Tax 6,039.41 3,042,906.33 Apr'23 Kona Lua, Inc O'oma, N. Kona Apr. '23 900.00 3,042,006.33 May'23 Oahu Publishing Inc Public Notice: Rules of Proceedures Draft posted&Notice of Public Mtg. 631.63 3,041,374.70 May'23 Kona Lua, Inc O'oma, N. Kona May'23 900.00 3,040,474.70 May'23 Hawaii John's Inc Kawa, Kau May'23 1,333.34 3,039,141.36 May'23 Townscape Inc Waikapuna Mgmt. Plan 4,000.00 3,035,141.36 May'23 Real Property Tax 6,463.96 3,041,605.32 Hawai'i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. ;; Page 1 of 2 s County of Hawai'i Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Maintenance Fund Accounting Report as of October 31, 2023 Date Vendor Description Deposit Expenditure Balance Jun '23 Pohaha I Ka Lani Stewardship Grant for Waipi'o Valley Lookout, Hamakua for 2020 61,056.00 2,980,549.32 Jun '23 Kohanaiki 'Ohana Stewardship Grant for O'oma Beach, N. Kona for 2022 20,380.00 2,960,169.32 Jun '23 Townscape Inc Waikapuna Mgmt. Plan 5,000.00 2,955,169.32 Jun '23 Townscape Inc Waikapuna Mgmt. Plan 4,341.27 2,950,828.05 Jun '23 Hawaii John's Inc Kawa, Kau June '23 1,333.34 2,949,494.71 Jun '23 Kona Lua, Inc O'oma, N. Kona June '23 900.00 2,948,594.71 Jul '23 Real Property Tax 6,489.19 2,955,083.90 Aug'23 Hawaii John's Inc Kawa, Kau July'23 2,800.00 2,952,283.90 Aug'23 Oahu Publishing Inc Public Notice Deadline for 2024 Stewardship Grant August 31, 2023 1,504.08 2,950,779.82 Aug'23 Ho'omalu Ka'u Stewardship Grant for Kahua Olohu, Ka'u for 2022 18,205.97 2,932,573.85 Sep '23 Kona Lua, Inc O'oma, N. Kona July'23 1,500.00 2,931,073.85 Sep '23 Real Property Tax 6,597.26 2,937,671.11 Sep '23 Friends of Amy B.H. Stewardship Grant for Amy Greenwell Greenwell Botanical Gardens,S. Kona for 2022. Pymt 1 of 2. Gardens 47,690.00 2,889,981.11 Sep '23 Hawaii John's Inc Kawa, Kau August'23 2,800.00 2,887,181.11 Sep '23 3C Goat Grazing O'oma, N. Kona Emergency Goat Fencing 12,625.44 2,874,555.67 Sep '23 Kona Lua, Inc O'oma, N. Kona August'23 1,500.00 2,873,055.67 Sep '23 Real Property Tax 6,347.49 2,879,403.16 Sep '23 Pohaha I Ka Lani Stewardship Grant for Waipi'o Valley Lookout, Hamakua for 2022 39,710.00 .2,839,693.16 Oct'23 Ho'omalu Ka'u Stewardship Grant for Kahua Olohu, Ka'u for Pymt 1 of 3 7,000.00 2,832,693.16 Oct'23 Ala Kahakai Trails 2023 Stewardship Grant for Waikapuna- Association Kaunamanno Ranger Program in Kau. Pymt 1 of 3 21,750.00 2,810,943.16 Oct'23 Ala Kahakai Trails 2023 Stewardship Grant for RMP for Association Kaunamano, Ka'u Pymt 1 of 3 40,000.00 2,770,943.16 Oct'23 Kohanaiki 'Ohana 2023 Stewardship Grant for O'oma Beach, Kailua-Kona. Pymt 1 of 3 9,555.00 2,761,388.16 Oct'23 Hawaii John's Inc Kawa, Kau September'23 2,800.00 2,758,588.16 Oct'23 Kona Lua, Inc O'oma, N. Kona September'23 1,500.00 2,757,088.16 Ending balance for October 2023 Hawai'i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. Page2of2 `Anaeho`omalu Kapalaoa, North Kona, Hawaii Photo Courtesy of Trust for Public Land •1 •a.•r f 1r•\--Al--. -. 1 v� — .„ • A _ .`i, _ - ` - , r - .1A, „,, _4‘., ' • — —` S r, 1!C"}^ '� .f•- , K C.-AT.. -» . • `.-•' f y .. — �,,, mo _• t' P ` .. :�, ws. +4; ` '� _.•r Fes - t 4` ' - - e ! Countyof Hawaii �;y"�'� '- ' -- • r Department of Finance s� O HP�P� 2023 ANNUAL REPORT TO THE MAYOR Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission PREAMBLE PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE AND NATURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION PROGRAM The purpose of the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Program (PONP) has two main focus areas.The focused areas are: 1) facilitate the process of eligible properties for acquisition using the Preservation Fund"The Fund'; and 2)to manage these properties with the Preservation Maintenance Fund, "PM Fund." The Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission (PONC) is a commission formed to assist in the process.The Commission's purpose: • To develop an initial island-wide prioritized list of qualifying lands worthy of preservation and submit it to the mayor. The list shall include the significance of each parcel or entitlement,identified the reason for its priority, and its anticipated use after acquisition. • To update this list at any time,but at least annually by December 31 of each year. • To explore methods of funding for conservation easements or land acquisition. • To give emphasis to conservation easements or land acquisitions where the County's contribution can be leveraged to obtain State, Federal, and/or private funding. • To review Stewardship Grant Applications and make recommendations to the Department of Finance of eligible non-profit organization to provide stewarding efforts for property purchased with the Fund. • Continued in-person public meetings alternating between Hilo and Kona. The program is structured in a way that supports and remains focus on the values of this program:the people of Hawai'i County are the true recipients of this program,which protects our lands from developement,numerous cultural sites,and endangered species.Today Hawaii is often referred to as the"Endangered Species Capital of the World." Both species below play an important role in the Hawaiian ecosystem.The Mariana Eight-Spot Butterfly helps to pollinate other plants and animals. Laysan Duck act as scavengers that help keep our environment clean by eating algae, leaves,seeds,and invertebrates. } a . .4 41, %. = le 41? Mitchell D.Roth - tx us Deanna S. Sake Mayor Finance Director Diane Nakagawa Deputy Director roJ *`` 'F of x�';' ' Hamana Ventura Property Manager County of Hawaii DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE—PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DIVISION County Bldg. •25 Aupuni Street • Suite No.1101 • Hilo,Hawai`i 96720-4245 Phone(808)961-8234 • Fax(808)961-8248 PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE,AND NATURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMISSION November 13, 2023 Mayor Mitch Roth County of Hawai`i 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 Hilo, Hawai`i 96720 Dear Mayor Roth: Attached is the 2023 Annual Report of the County of Hawai`i Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission(PONC),pursuant to Section 2- 217(2) of the Hawai`i County Code. A voters' initiative established the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Fund(Preservation Fund) in 2006. About 17 years later, 4,806.37 acres have been acquired in fee simple and 5,537.487 acres in conservation easements, all of which shall be held in perpetuity for the use and enjoyment of the people of Hawai`i. Another voters' initiative established the Preservation Maintenance Fund(Maintenance Fund) in 2010. A total of$470,615.77 in stewardship grant funds was awarded to stewardship groups in Jan. - Oct. of this calendar year. Our Commission is committed to doing our part to strengthen the program's utilization of the Preservation and Maintenance Funds in an accountable,transparent, and responsible manner. To that end, we formed Permitted Interaction Groups to improve: 1. The Suggestion Form and the rating system that we are using to prioritize the suggestions; and 2. The Stewardship Grant Application Form that is now fillable with clear instructions. The form revisions are intended to ease the tasks of suggesting properties and applying for stewardship grants. We will continue to assess how the newer forms are being used and whether further improvements are needed. Hawai 7 County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer This year PONC received four Suggestions for County acquisition. One Suggestion was withdrawn, and we highly rated the remaining three for County consideration. We especially thank those community groups and individuals who invest time and effort into informing us of lands that are valuable and appropriate for PONC consideration. Twelve Stewardship Grant Applications were submitted this year. A Pre-Review of Grant Applications to assist grant applicants was offered for the first time this year and will be offered again next year. Reduction of the wait time for stewardship groups to receive Maintenance Funds after grant approval is recognized as a need by all involved. Progress is being made and efforts are ongoing to improve that aspect of the process. Throughout the year, PONC has received capable guidance, assistance, and support from Commission Secretary Maxine Cutler, Property Manager Hamana Ventura, and Deputy Corporation Counsel Jean Campbell. With their invaluable assistance over the past year and a half, we updated our Rules of Practice and Procedure in May 2023. This is a dynamic program that is growing every year with new acquisitions, maintenance initiatives, and community involvement. Staff support is key to the success of our Commission and the program. On behalf of the Commission,we greatly appreciate your support and interest in this important County program. Mahalo a nui loa, Deborah Chang Chairperson COMMISSION MEMBERS (DISTRICT) Deborah Chang, Chair(1), Alex Kelepolo, V. Chair(2), Shellie Bee Alan Naungayan(3), Amedeo Markoff (4),Deborah J.•Ward(5), Jodie Rosam (6), Justin Lee (7), Cayla Crivello (8), and Kamuela Plunkett(9) TABLE OF CONTENTS Preamble Chairman's Letter to Mayor Roth The Commission Report 2023 Prioritized List Commission Members Commission Meetings ii Suggestion Forms ii Assessment Criteria Form ii Stewardship Grants ii Commission and Community Recommendations and Concerns ii The Department of Finance Report Acquisition Status Report iii Preservation Fund iii What is a Conservation Easement iv Maintenance Fund iv Status of Properties on Past Prioritized List v Conclusion v Chapter 1. 2023 Prioritized List 1. Anaeho`omalu Kapalaoa (95.71%) 1.1 2. Punahoa Heritage Forest (85.29%) 1.6 3. Ke Ala Kahawai '0 Waimea, "The Waimea Trail" (75.57%) 1.11 Chapter 2. Rules and Procedures (amd. May 31, 2023) Rules of Practices and Procedures 2.1 Chapter 3. Stewardship Stewardship Grant Applications FY2024 3.1 County of Hawaii website public folders are located here: https://records.hawaiicounty.qov/weblink/Browse.aspx?dbid=l&startid=13770&cr=1 2023 ANNUAL REPORT TO THE MAYOR THE COMMISSION REPORTS The Department of Finance, through its Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission (PONC), is submitting this 2023 Annual Report to the Mayor, which includes the 2023 Prioritized List of Properties that was submitted to this Commission on or before the deadline date of January 31,2023, according to the Hawai`i County Code(1985),Edition 2005 Section 2-217. This Commission is an advisory to the Mayor, and its sole responsibilities are: 1) Submit a prioritized list of properties to be considered for acquisition to the Mayor and 2) Evaluate and make recommendations specific to Stewardship Grant Applications. In developing the 2023 Prioritized List, the Commission considered properties submitted on the 2023 Suggestion Forms, heard public testimony, reviewed communications, conducted interviews, conducted site visits,and scored accordingly to the Assessment Criteria Form. The Commission developed its prioritized ranking order based on reported urgency, anticipated use, significance, the benefit to the public, unique funding opportunities available for acquisition, and a proposed management plan. This year's total possible score based on the total number was 800. In 2015,the Commission amended its rules to include only those properties that scored 50% or higher on the prioritized list for consideration. In Chapter 1, there are detailed descriptions, maps, and summaries of all three properties that scored above the 50% threshold(Suggestion 23-01, 02, and 04). Suggestions 23-03 Keopu Flood Mitigation, N. Kona, was withdrawn by the nominator. The Commission submits to the Mayor the 2023 Prioritized List. 2023 Prioritized List No. % Sugg. Nomination Tax Map Key No. 1 96 23-01 `Anaeho`omalu Kapalaoa,North Kona (3)7-1-003:010 2 85 23-02 Punahoa Heritage Forest, South Hilo (3)2-5-001:011 3 76 23-04 Ke Ala Kahawai `o Waimea, South Kohala 49 parcels, approx. 11,458.82 a.k.a. The Waimea Trail acres. (see Chapter 1,No. 3) Commission Members Name Term CD. No. Deborah Chang, Chair 12/31/27 1 Alex Kelepolo,Vice Chair 12/31/24 2 Shelly Bee Allen Naungayan 12/31/23 3 Amedeo Markoff 12/31/27 4 effective 10/20/23. Debbie J. Ward 12/31/25 5 Jodie Rosam 12/31/26 6 Justin B. Lee 12/31/24 7 Cayla Crivello 12/31/25 8 Eligible for afull term. Kamuela Plunkett 12/31/25 9 Eligible for a full term. 1. Commission Meetings For the calendar year 2023, regular, in-person public meetings started at 10:00 a.m. and alternated between Kona and Hilo locations. The meetings are defined below. January 9(Kona) July 10(Hilo) March 13 (Hilo) September 11 (Kona) May 8(Kona) November 13 (Hilo) Suggestion Form There were slight revisions to the Suggestion Form found in Chapter 3. The last revision was approved on October 14, 2020. The Department of Finance received four 2023 Suggestion Forms from February 1,2022,to January 31,2023,the deadline period. The Commission ranked only three of the four nominations. One of the Suggestions was withdrawn. The 2023 Prioritized List and summaries can be found in Chapter 1. Assessment Criteria Form The Commission made revisions to the Assessment Criteria Form. The last revision was done on November 15, 2018. (Chapter 3). This Assessment Criteria Form was utilized to assess the suggestion forms received during the time, as mentioned earlier. Stewardship Grants This past year, the Commission received from the Department of Finance (12) 2023 Stewardship Grant Applications and processed each application. This process included a review of the application, conducted interviews with each applicant, and reviewed public testimonies. Upon review of the applications, this Commission expressed many concerns and reservations about the ease of using the new grant applications;semi and annual reports not submitted on time;management plan grant requests were missing scope of work,quotes for this service,justification of project costs,grant funding terms, compliance, and the delay of funding from past approved grants. The PONC was able to complete a grant funding recommendation to the Department of Finance at its November 13,2023,public meeting. Commission Recommendations and Concerns The following is a listing of recommendations and concerns identified by the Commission for the upcoming year: > Encourages everyone to be safe, wear masks, and live well. > Funding resources for local non-profit organizations interested in stewarding County properties purchased with the Preservation FUND in their districts can apply for a Stewardship Grant. ➢ Grant awardees receive grant funding in a timely manner. ➢ Publicize and encourage the public to submit 2024 Suggestion Forms by January 31, 2024. ➢ Publicize and encourage the public to submit the 2024 Stewardship Grant Application by August 31, 2024. > Hybrid meetings. > Hire a full-time employee for only PONC and Stewardship Grant Facilitator. 11. County of Hawai`i website public folders are located here: https://records.hawaiicounty.gov/weblink/Browse.aspx?dbid=l&startid=13770&cr=1 THE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE REPORTS Acquisition Status Report The County completed three acquisitions,which are Halelua,North Kohala,and both Keahou Bay #35 and Keahou Bay #106, both in North Kona. To date, the County has acquired 10,343.857 acres consisting of approx. 5,537.487 acres in Conservation Easements and 4,806.37 acres in fee simple, which will remain in open space protection in perpetuity. The Acquisition Status Report and Preservation Fund balance are located on the County's website public folders. Preservation Fund Each year,the public is invited to submit suggestions to the Public Access,Open Space,and Natural Resources Preservation Commission. The deadline for suggestions is January 31. [See PONC Rules of Practice and Procedure 4(a)] The Commission will evaluate the suggestions, conduct site visits, and score the suggestions using their standard assessment criteria form. [See PONC Rules of Practice and Procedure 4(b)] This form covers the factors set forth in the County Charter and the County Code. [See Charter Section 10-15(c)(1), Hawai'i County Code Section 2-214.1(c)(1), PONC Rules of Practice and Procedure 4(b)] Any suggestion receiving fifty points or more out of the possible 100 points will be included in the Commission's priority list recommendation to the Mayor. [See PONC Rules of Practice and Procedure 4(b)] Each year,the Commission prepares the updated prioritized list by December 31 and submits the list to the Mayor in an annual report shortly after that for the Mayor's comment and recommendation. [See PONC Rules of Practice and Procedure 4(c) & (d)] Within 60 days of receipt, the Mayor will submit the list to the County Council. [See Hawaii County Code Section 2-218(a)] The County Council will, by resolution, select the lands to be preserved. [See Hawai'i County Code Section 2-218(a)] The Council member within whose district the land is located usually submits the resolution. The resolution authorizes the Finance Department to negotiate a possible purchase of either the fee simple interest or an easement from the landowner. [See Hawaii County Code Section 2-218(d)] Once on the prioritized list,with a resolution, a property may be purchased at any time. Priority is given to the acquisition of coastal properties and properties that have commitments for matching funds. [See County Charter Section 10-15(g) and Hawaii County Code Section 2-218(a)] In addition to the priorities set forth in the County Code, the Finance Department acts on properties with significant community interest, which may be evidenced by active Council member support and involvement, active community groups who have indicated they are interested in contributing to the stewardship of the property, and interested landowners. This program does not include the power of eminent domain, so the Finance Department will only engage with a property owner who has indicated to the County that they are willing to sell their property. The Preservation Fund may be used to purchase the fee simple interest in a property or a conservation easement. [See discussion below describing conservation easements] The conveyance document(either a deed or grant of a conservation easement)for every purchase using Preservation Fund money must include the following provision: "This land/easement was acquired with funds from the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund. It shall be held in perpetuity for the use and enjoyment of the people of iii. Hawai'i County and may not be sold, mortgaged, traded, or transferred in any way." [See County Charter Sections 10-15(h) and(i)] Once a property is purchased with Preservation Fund money, the land can be used by the County for any of the uses permitted by the Charter: for public outdoor recreation and education, including (a) access to beaches and mountains, (b) preservation of historically or culturally important land areas and sites, (c) protection of natural resources, significant habitat or eco-systems, including buffer zones, (d) preservation of forests, beaches, coastal areas, natural beauty and agricultural lands, and (e) protection of watershed lands to preserve water quality and water supply. [See County Charter Sections 10-15(c)(1)(a) — (d) and Hawaii County Code Section 2-214(c)]. The specific activities identified as permitted uses of the Maintenance Fund are presumed to be permitted activities on land purchased with the Preservation Fund. [See County Charter Sections 10-16(g)(1)-(1 7)] What is a Conservation Easement? A conservation easement is a grant by a landowner of specific property rights to an easement holder in perpetuity. The specific rights typically include all or most all of the development rights attached to the property such that the property is no longer able to be significantly developed. Typically, a conservation easement will describe the limited uses that will continue to be permitted by the landowner and will include baseline surveys describing the conservation values of the property. In effect, this will convey to the easement holder the right to subdivide, the right to build any structures, the right to improve roads and install utilities, the right to make any land use changes, and all other rights to develop the property,which the easement holder will not exercise. The easement holder will be responsible for inspecting the landowner's use of the property and enforcing the terms of the easement. If a landowner desires to be allowed to do limited development on the property, a conservation easement may describe small areas of the property where development remains permitted. For example,an easement may permit the construction of one dwelling on the property to serve as a residence for the landowner or their caretaker to live on the property in order to monitor and steward the land or to conduct agricultural operations if those remain permitted use. Maintenance Fund Properties purchased with Preservation Fund money are eligible for public safety and preservation stewardship by community members through non-profit organizations, utilizing funds from the Maintenance Fund established by the County Charter. [See County Charter Sections 10-16(g) and (h)] Non-profit organizations or organizations operating under the umbrella of a non-profit organization may apply for stewardship grants by submitting an application and required supporting materials by the annual August 15 deadline. [See County Charter Section 10-16(h)(4) and PONC Rules of Practice and Procedure 40] The Commission will review the grant applications, conduct interviews of applicants, and make recommendations to the Director of Finance. [See PONC Rules of Practice and Procedure 40] The Charter identifies 17 expenditures that are presumed to be directly related to public safety maintenance and preservation. [See County Charter Sections 10-16(g)(1)-(1 7)] Also allowed is the payment of compensation for specific duties such as labor, educational workshops, and maintenance work paid to an officer,board member,or employee of a recipient non-profit if those duties have been specifically identified and officially approved in the detailed business plan submitted as part of the stewardship grant application. [See County Charter Section 10-16(h)(6)] After the County Council passes a resolution authorizing the grants, the Director of Finance will enter into a grant agreement with the non-profit organization for the administration of the grant funds. The non-profit is required to provide performance reports,which are reviewed by the Commission to verify that iv. grant objectives are being met. [See PONC Rules of Practice and Procedure 4(g) Pohaha I ka Lani, a non-profit corporation, has successfully stewarded the Waipio Valley Lookout County parcel since 2016. Thousands of volunteers have malama this lot over the years, establishing healthy gardens, landscaping maintenance, restoring bamboo fencing, and providing thousands of hours of education to the children of Hawaii 4 -.-,. A ,L s t„ ' J--��e"' a 4. r ...0, ./ . " r.". , - \ f� : ,.y r � s 1° yy rJ��"- ft cam,}-y.,�, s s, 4 �, 1:t;.�. ".• .1-`1,;', ' 5'a'°�k+x : a ' -... y$ _� awu4y A' z -� [ .,.'• , -I ,- —e t Z � .a fir.... ., ,:3 _ Photo 1: Waipio Valley Lookout fKoa'ekea]. Photo courtesy of Pohaha I Ka Lani. Status of Properties on Past Prioritized List The County completed the Status of Properties on the Past Prioritized List, which can be found on the County's website public folders. The list contains all properties that made the 50% threshold, ranked by the Commission, what year they ranked, resolution information, and status since this program was established in 2006. Conclusion Our island is incredibly rich in cultural heritage, consisting of thousands of acres of historical sites, pristine native forests, and coastlines. Within our island, we are hosts to a variety of rare and endangered species, such as the Nene bird, Horry Bat, Hawaiian Monk Seal, Hawksbill Turtles, numerous flora and fauna, and other animals. The Open Space Program provides the means to facilitate the protection and preservation in perpetuity these unique spaces which provides our posterities opportunities to learn,renewal of traditional cultural practices,and public access to coastal lands. We must continue to support this unique program. Finally, we thank the members of our PONCommission for their dedication and valuable service on this unique Commission. Ms. Deanna Sako,Director of Finance; Mr. Hamana Ventura, Property Manager; Ms. Maxine Cutler, Property Management Technician/Commission Secretary; and Ms. Jean Campbell,Deputy Corporation Counsel. V. COUNTY OF HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE 2023 Annual Report to the Mayor CHAPTER 1 2023 Prioritized List Summaries from the Commissioners November 17, 2023 PRIORITY#1: 'ANAEHO`OMALU KAPALAOA (Suggestion 23-01, Scored 95.71%) Tax Map Key No. (3) 7-1-003:010, consisting of approximately 27 acres of the Pu'uanahulu Ahupua'a in the District of North Kona, Hawaii. 2-ftwrelitot, • it ' .. _ • _� ! A._ ;,fir Figure 1. One of several rocky outcroppings along the shoreline which are used by fishermen and marine life. *PC:La Crivello The 27.38 acre parcel located in Pu'uanahulu Ahupua'a in North Kona is currently owned by Waikoloa Land and Cattle Company and was originally purchased for the purpose of expanding the WaikOloa Beach Resort. Within this property is a concentrated and extensive network of intact ancient and historic trails that serve as a connection between numerous significant biological-cultural areas including but not limited to Keahualono Heiau, Hi'iakaika'ale'i Heiau, abrader quarries, habitation caves and complexes, and countless petroglyphs.This coastal property is populated with native insects, native crustaceans, and native plants, including the rare endemic Hawaiian caper, the native `opae'ula (Halocardina rubra)maiapilo (Capparis sandwichiana) and the nalo meli maoli, or yellow-faced bees (Hylaeus sp.). The 'Anaeho'omalu Kapalaoa property holds a special place in the Native Hawaiian community of Pu'uanahulu and represents an opportunity to reconnect and sustain a generational relationship of Pu'uanahulu 'ohana to place. The trail system, which spans the property, extends into the adjacent properties, indicating long-held connections amongst people and place for generations into the past. These connections have the potential to remain in place long into the future for generations to come with 1-1 the acquisition of this property. The continuum of this massive trail network extends mauka into Pu'uanahulu, southwest into the IGholo State Park Reserve, makai to Kahapapa and Ku'uali`i fishponds, and at one time,the northeastern portion,which is now surrounded by Waikoloa Beach Resort, remained completely intact.. It is critical that spaces such as this be protected immediately to supportthe continuity of traditional, place-based practices. ANTICIPATED USE • Public access is primarily by foot only. • Parking is located near the Lava Lava Beach Club, a short walk to the beach and the trail network which provides direct access to the coastal and inland portions of the property, respectively. • The coastal segment of the property is expected to remain accessible according to current access standards. Future use of the coastal portion of the property would likely remain the same. • Keahualono Heiau (Figure 2), a ceremonial platform built for Lonoikamakahiki, the boundary marker between North Kona and South Kohala and the northern boundary of Kekahawai'oleonakona (the waterless lands of Kona) is still used today to perpetuate traditional Hawaiian practices. ▪ ' •r r s n '*', ..?"� , ..: j�o, ' f {.�7''[r+f .:.sue - .- 'i" .-i .,; tt_' .- Y ,"' }trr 1i, i`" r .,1_,V•�r,AA, Y`,n .. 0." it =.li ^k+., _ F/` �, I--9 +'' .R, _4 r '. ti:-` .j. r 1,y, -. • r { mod...'+.. . � rr♦. -ft.. ,. .. yirwt i' ,-; .1.'.: [ .iii • 1• ;; u per,:r^{' 4,,,:-r..".-'1 ,'s` 4=A y r' .. �{�" Yap. ..„trod 4'� �sv.,fit`�[: 4e�. ,^ 'Ri An e` -4. -�...--Ir. �i�'�F+r:�'r,,,.t�Y T.R T. ��^'.� � 'er✓%.w foe�. .. -� �-� t'z=`.i•s:"- Figure 1. Keahualono Heiau,looking makai towards'Anaeho'omalu. *PC:Trust for Public Lands. • Hi'iakaika'ale'T Heiau, which is suggested to have served as a ceremonial space for healing and regrowth, will continue to be used for traditional practices relative to this heiau. • The Ala Nui Aupuni (Old Government Road) just east of the property is maintained across the resort landscape, and is used for recreational and traditional cultural practices. The Ala Loa (ancient trail network)within the lava flow of the property is still utilized by'ohana of Pu'uanahulu as a way to maintain connections and reconnect with ancestral knowledge and experiences through traditional cultural practices(Figure 4).Ala Kahakai Trail Association,Ala Kahakai National 1-2 Historic Trail, and community members intend on hosting trail work days to maintain these trail systems throughout the property. SIGNIFICANCE AND MANAGEMENT • Nonprofit Na 'Oiwi o Pu'uanahulu is the proposed future owner of'Anaeho'omalu Kapalaoa,with the County of Hawai'i holding a Conservation Easement over the property to protect it in perpetuity. Na 'Oiwi o Pu'uanahulu plans to partner with nonprofit Hui Aloha Kiholo, descendant families, and the community to steward this 'aina as a kipuka where families can reconnect to their ancestral lands and the broader community can help malama, care for, and restore its precious cultural and natural resources. • Currently, the Kiholo State Park Reserve is jointly managed by the Division of State Parks and Hui Aloha Kiholo. Hui Aloha Kiholo acts as stewards of the Kiholo Bay,guided by lineal descendants of the area. The property in Suggestion 23-01 could expand the protection on a landscape scale. Several non-profit entities intend to be a part of the management of this parcel, including Na'Oiwi o Pu'uanahulu, Hui Aloha Kiholo, and Ala Kahaki Trail Association. Hui Aloha Kiholo and Na 'Oiwi o Pu'uanahulu share many of the same individuals, many of which are lineal descendants and cultural practitioners of the area.Thus, it is likely that the cohesive landscape-scale management of the natural and cultural resources would be successful in the future. • A lava tube network covered with petroglyphs and including a pristine anchialine pool complex extends from beneath Hi'iakaika'ale'i to the coast(Figure 2 and 6), providing habitat to 'opae'ula (Halocardina rubra) and highlighting the unique underground water systems of Kekahawai'oleonakona. Water is found to spring forth through these anchialine ponds from underground aquifers and through punawai (springs) in the ocean. • Areas of this region where water can be found were highly coveted and protected as they provide the most fundamental resources for survival in a geographic area known for its harsh exposure to the sun and heat. These precious coastal ecosystems are a part of the larger watershed which extends to 'Anaeho'omalu Bay, a well-known site for traditional fisheries and fishing practices which 'ohana continue to exercise today. _ •The property contains many � if' � —AI -j=-; native plant species known for -K,, ` �-,•ems. : .' medicinal qualities and cultural •s - ,. ' practices such as 'uhaloa, kou, - xty ,fI milo, hala, and maiapilo � - Jr..' .�.:' �c y t `_. Figure 2.Rare maiapilo(Capparis s 9�s:, -, S d - r",- _ '~ . '1` '.1ss .r' `_4-- sandwichiana)thriving along the - - -'fit: - ` coastline. *PC:Jodie Rosam. 1l _ yi. '' 4,: '''s r. sue y =ram aKL.; a1 L.�"1t�q ' � _i_ ,--7'�, _ �. �� aace g*,, ...,--Itt site 1-3 SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACQUISITION AND/OR MANAGEMENT • Because of the extensive resources on the property(primarily cultural resources), the landowner is interested in selling the property for preservation. • The resort adjacent to the property to the north has developed an extensive amount of coastline, however; this property, along with the adjacent Kiholo State Park Reserve presents an opportunity to protect one of the last undeveloped stretches of coastline in the area, while still allowing public access of the shoreline and culturally significant resources. Figure 4. An extensive trail ' network within the lava flows includes the Ala Loa, which traverses through the property and connects .,. 4 'y.- .•._: „. Oancient ...�., . rr�.. •r• <_ �; .�. _..�„ , t t e overarc ing anc"e L : and historic trail system. PC:La Crivello. STRENGTHS • It is a potential site for protecting natural and cultural resources, providing public access, partnerships and educational opportunities, and perpetuating Hawaiian cultural practices and access for continued practice. • The protection of this property is critical to the management and protection of the Kona Watershed,as well as groundwater recharge and coastal ecosystem health. • The property is utilized by the public for fishing,gathering,surfing,cultural practices,and overall recreation. • Na 'Oiwi o Pu'uanahulu and Hui Aloha Kiholo have expressed a willingness to play a role in ownership as well as stewardship, ensuring descendant-led and community-based stewardship of the property. • The landowner has provided a letter of intent to sell for preservation. 1-4 • • • oQ ' r41940 Iaip's 41 • 1 • " .y tea..;' � Marro -Wa1ko{oa . , R: ° . Anae' 9hrrialu fie..,, i j 411i6;".......„, County of Hawaii IT Department,Esri Community Maps Contributors,©OpenStreetMap,Micro oftl.E n,H_ERE, Garmin,SafeGraph,GeoTechnologies,Inc,METI/NASA,USGS,EPA,US Census Bureau,US,A, Figure 5.Property location of TMK(3)7-1-003:010 as relative to'Anaeho'omalu Bay and the Lava Lava Beach Club. End of Summary Report by Ms. La Crivello, Commissioner. 1-5 PRIORITY #2: PUNAHOA HERITAGE FOREST (Suggestion 23-02, Scored 85.29%) TMK No.(s) (3) 2-5-001:011, consisting of approximately 1,052 acres of the Punahoa Ahupua'a, South Hilo, Hawai'i. The Punahoa Heritage Forest is comprised of nearly 2,000 acres of lowland wet forest (1,052 acres of which are included in this suggestion)which serves as a critical component of the Hilo Watershed. It serves as an integral component to the health of our human, plant,and animal communities as well as our marine ecosystems. The forest is home to native insects, plant species, and endemic birds including the Hawai'i 'amakihi(Chlorodrepanis virens)and 'io(Buteosolitarius).The kipuka within the property contain not only rare plant species but provide opportunities for restoration and research, as well as perpetuating cultural practices and retaining human connections to 'aina. i-s , t J ate", '► .' ' 'i t t ,j jw 1* twirl:' 'jai'- �,y,,.R �4 \� , Z.Ofr',. -.-.;,:;: ; .:),.''''".' ' li!- ,d ; •• -. ! 4 ' f Y' ! Ee t J j fc ( tj,. i4 1 ` j ` - • a, • -. am; +�' „y ,. G 4 Figure 2. Understory vegetation includes Kupukupu Figure 1. Metrisoderos polymorpha)are the dominant canopy (Nephrolepis cordifolia), Hapu'u(Cibotium menziesii,not species. *PC:Jodie Rosam pictured), Uluhe(Dicranopteris linearis),and Pa'iniu (Astelia menziesiana). *PC:Jodie Rosam The Punahoa Heritage Forest is unique in that it binds together a greater continuous landscape across existing land boundaries in order to preserve and protect watersheds and native plant and animal species that are both ecologically and culturally significant. There is a partnership between the United Church of Christ Hawai'i Conference Foundation (UCCHF), who owns the adjacent property to the north, and the Pu'a Foundation to protect the greater Punahoa Heritage Forest. Several ecologically and culturally significant kipuka straddle the boundary of both properties, and this partnership is key to the successful protection of the greater landscape. It is critical that forests such as this are protected immediately in 1-6 order to slow the spread of Rapid `Ohi'a Death and maintain the genetic biodiversity on which the health of Hawai`i's ecosystem (and ultimately human) health rely. ` - also < : e p,, - Nit P ik..„ *%;;t! ..y,• _�,_' .. 4 € .`� t a te# ,,,„ . ,,,,, 4 ., ,// ,,;;;,-.1 --. . ....-,, ,:_. -0. w• t ,,, ,, .....,, y. _ ; r� •.4R M _ V all •1_a fit' 1 \ I_('' ( ''Y= ;' it , `!_ e i • 7 a ' ' !- 4 '., s'' A i- ._ ..J ..„.. .ii ,. 7.-7 -,‘ Figure 3. 'le ie(Freycinetia arborea),an indicator of a Figure 4.Olomea(Perrottetia sandwicenses)is healthy forest, winds through the Olomea(Perrottetia common on the forest edge. *PC:Jodie Rosam sandwicenses). *PC:Jodie Rosam ANTICIPATED USE • The Pu'a Foundation is seeking a Conservation Agreement (CE) on this property between the County and themselves. • The overarching goal of the Punahoa Heritage Forest is to balance conservation of the natural and cultural resources of the forest with Hawai'i lifeways practices. The vision is to first understand the natural and cultural resources on the property, and then safely open certain areas to the public for education, gathering, cultural practices, etc. The Pu'a Foundation is dedicated to preserving and sharing Hawaiian culture with the public, while allowing the forest to flourish and rejuvenate. • Public access into the property in Suggestion 23-02 is by foot only, and this will likely be the case in the future (due to the potential spread of Rapid `Ohi'a Death). Kra Foundation may choose to open a larger parking area near Saddle Road, though a site would be carefully selected based on the natural and cultural resources of the area. The Pu'a Foundation sees fencing in the Punahoa Heritage Forest as a priority. • The Punahoa Heritage Forest is a convenient site for Univeristy of Hawaii at Hilo students and scientists to study forest composition,forest dymanics, seed dispersal, etc. 1-7 SIGNIFICANCE AND MANAGEMENT • The UCCHCF property(922 acres included in the Punahoa Heritage Forest) is currently under a CE agreement held by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and the land owners. The Pu'a Foundation envisions the CE on the Suggestion 23-02 property to be cohesive with the greater landscape rather than just by property boundary deliniations. • There has been much discussion of the importance of landscape-scale preservation, potential outlooks of the suggested three phase rollouts(including identifying pros,cons,and management concerns) across the property, and next step suggestions (including collaborations with relevant stakeholders and comprehensive flora/fauna and archaeological surveys). • The Pu'a Foundation highlights the need for a collaborative management effort of the property and is open to potentially not putting the entire property into a CE in order to allow for minor infrastructure on the property(i.e., composting toliets,gathering place)where no flora/fauna or archaeological sites would be impacted. '" S'°'. ""+.s �� {q. a a "`"wF `t .fL f.• X s s'iF [•ix�9 .-t. ",sp ; ✓:- f. �t 1 y rk Jam- �y�y�N� if C.2 IlTeL; 't +fiO4- t} • { 1.. '•� ,- ' 11 N t 41,V:- „t. `f, rnNeP 7 f •.,,- -,...:, j r n ,-,•�� }. 7 .- - - .%, :-- .. „,;Lori,'tif r +' fax i •. ' oY'* s. [ E —ice .fE P, r ' -_..• -,. .: , -- -.i.Ki-i:---rrp— i.th,, %' h..; r X f'_y,� - •.se i -u ✓ ' ^ . __a.. .. '`' f f +' ;,,. — -. ,. b ..,�t .i .d i:: 1;'s. .,ter Z. �"ti.�"'" r�,#p�t.,. f'' u _ z N_ -. . }crr w _.```" ,,...r--,--- -s ri'> •!i 4- a a �a' "x--4 X-',- +• �a,s .,.F� Figure 5.Stream entering two holding ponds,used by children as safe swimming holes. *PC:Deborah Chang SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACQUISITION AND/OR MANAGEMENT • While this property is owned by the Pu'a Foundation and is not currently under the threat of development, the adjacent parcel to the south is being considered for koa logging. Because the forest knows no boundaries, it is important to quickly gather information on the natural and cultural resources of the property and the kipuka within in order to inform the landowner to the south and protect the greater landscape. • The property is part of the greater Punahoa Heritage Forest with support from the UCCHCF, and thus the Pu'a Foundation has strong potential to leverage resources as a partner organization. 1-8 • Much of the surrounding land is owned by the State, and Pu'a Foundation can likely form agreements with the State to facilitate access and management. Furthermore,the kipuka located within the property have been a research site for students of UH Hilo and scientists within the area, and the potential for collaboration will only continue to grow. STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSESirr 1 „rx Y � tY"I1 fi p s1 si i I i_ I 1 Strengths: { - tt.eF r s I • It is a potential site for protecting natural and cultural resources, _ , ' ; ��' 'n providing public access partnerships and educational opportunities, and 'y4,7 perpetuating Hawaiian cultural a „4-0 4� , re practices. • Both UCCHCF and Pu'a Foundation "�l - �"` �' �f*' . � ;. share a vision of conservation that would encompass nearly 2,000 acres. • The protection of this property is - critical to the management and ` 0 e protection of the Hilo Watershed, as • . b y well as groundwater recharge and '�"s �'. t�" i y , coastal ecosystem health. • While the exact terms of the CE need • F x to be solidified in order to meet the Figure 6.Clear fresh water collects in the holding ponds before needs of the forest as well as of the flowing mokoi. PC:Jodie Rosom goals of the Pu'a Foundation, it is clear that an agreement between the Pu'a Foundation and the County would have countless benefits and would open up many opportunities within the community. Weaknesses: • A full flora/fauna and archaeological reconnaissance of the property is needed prior to making informed decisions about the terms of the CE. 1-9 Hilo Bay Daniel K Inouye Highway on Hawaii Island Ifoundation avi i con felof Chre ist N tnitcd Chu P�a Founaat`on M ; roe♦, w t s Figure 7. The Pu'a Foundation and the UCCHF properties compose the nearly 2,000 acre Punahoa Heritage Forest. *Map from submitted application. End of Summary Report by Ms.Jodie Rosam, Commissioner. 1-10 PRIORITY #3: KE ALA KAHAWAI 'O WAIMEA (THE WAIMEA TRAIL) (Suggestion 23-04, Scored 75.57%) TMK No.: (3) portion of 49 parcels, consisting of approximately 11,458.82 acres of the Lalamilo Ahupua'a, South Kohala, Hawai'i. �.� r a�K }i "h y y ' Y; t _ - _ �! f " .. • _ - _ _ - - - - _ _ - _ ,: ti ff: `. wi- r,. - -,� - _ q ,r., ? S a mow•! �� 3r 7 s,:w y"�!' `j f � f y - w �� _ • sue `„ 'i.eatt" c -.S 4x 1. • -'1 vir t '1;�~ - y� ,,e-i.- a ',r `_e1 Ijr is `__ �-���- _-- 'C, �.'--�. • " !}. .,'s r. i.• -_ < j t ` ~ - 0 �.-4,-,y} "s+1°. •^ Ste -fv Mi , . �- r !Y �. � s viz 'a jM Figure 1. The Waimea Trail. *PC:Deborah Ward The Waimea Trail is a grassroots community project that has grown to serve and connect Waimea residents and visitors for almost 30 years. The vision of Ke Ala Kahawai 'o Waimea as a "connected greenway corridor for gathering, walking, biking, and sustaining a cherished rural landscape and lifestyle for future generations. The goal is to create a roadless corridor, which will provide an accessible, non- motorized vehicular pathway connecting residences, businesses, and the many schools in the area. As envisioned by the Waimea Trails and Greenways (WTG) Committee, the proposed project consists of six multi-TMK increments and will eventually connect to a 14-mile trail, from Waimea town to the coastal shoreline. ANTICIPATED USE The historic community of Waimea is bisected by a four-lane highway, Hawai'i Belt Road, which impedes safe biking and walking. The current trail section serves as a safe alternative to walking or biking on the very busy cross-island roadway. 1-11 PUBLIC OUTDOOR RECREATION �I Acquisition of added increments would promote i```µ PrU gliNI public safety, ease traffic congestion, encourage ,e..';. outdoor recreation,and invite community education, ti KE ALA KAHAWAI 4 /�� 0 WAIMEA as well as assisting in preserving expansive green / • corridors along the Waikoloa and Keanu'i'omano „L ,46 ' 'jr;_ streams, and historic and culturally significant lands �'� - / /' . WAIMEA STREAM SIDE TRAIL within the Lalamilo, Keanu I�•�omano, Ouli, Kawaihae, Pu'ukapu,Waimea/Waikoloa ahupua'a, in the district DAYLIGHT USE ONLY / i �" of South Kohala, Council District 9. /'j PEDESTRIANS 1/ AND BICeL EDUCATION: PET FRIENDLY 1 DOGS ON LEASHPS WELCE By using the trail, school children and visitors can „,,;� scoop TMEP°° K°KUA safely plant native trees, investigate stream-life, take MAMAL°F ;P-**.V part in community efforts on the trail, and learn - ,AI ST �* yws about the rich cultural and agricultural history of the s" KA",t-�'LA'°�' ~ '.`, i ["l,,1R,: :1,...Hwy y .�. region. . : ' . fr.. y - 1r Figure 2.Signage. *PC:Deborah Ward .,11101F ,� J ` I. .^' .I _ - " ............ -''t.f-,-,,; Aiiii(44::. • -',-.-'-:. , ....... •a-.s..,..... '- '''s. , .,.•..,4.4.::: B A 1 , 1 . ' ,1 ,441,- -,, . . . ii - .. .. .c,-._--, ,,,,. i "ek,'; i4 � ` } k,` dae �«}. h. 1. - `✓� i. F--'''<-7-?4,,,;-_,,10.* :,A7g,M,, ,Agrik, '.' v'i � _ _ a y ...4,..,At 57,,AW'',f:4),, ''',,, -, ,,,.., _. _ _. oi. ....,.. .. .... . ....,,,,,,,,,444. ,,,,,.,--„,... „.„,..,,,..., .- ,.,_ ...,,,, ••••:.; i% 40, • ..„-, -.60•• , - , , \,, ,iv,--L.,..4 ....„,,,:,..- ...; . lir ,lit‘ , , . .. , 0 . , Figure 3.Waimea Trails and Greenways(WTG)Committee and community volunteers are removing invasive grasses and have planted dozens of native shrubs and trees,including this Acacia koa,native to the area. *PC: Deborah Ward 1-12 HISTORIC AND CULTURAL IMPORTANCE The watershed area of the Kohala mountains once supported several thousand native Hawaiians, who practiced subsistence agriculture, made kapa, and thatched dwellings. As the Europeans arrived in the area, most of the sandalwood (Santalum ellipticum)forests were harvested and the land became ideal for grazing animals. California longhorn cattle were given as a gift to Hawaiian King Kamehameha I by British Captain George Vancouver in 1793. In 1809,John Palmer Parker arrived to the area after jumping ship and over time became employed by the king to maintain the cattle. Parker married Kipikane, the daughter of a high- ranking chief,and as a family developed what is now Parker Ranch,the largest ranch in the area"("Waimea (Kamuela) Big Island of Hawaii - Brief History". 2012-03-17). PROTECTION OF NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES The extensive Kohala field system can still be seen from portions of the proposed trail,and the Ala Kahakai Trail follows the coastline over ancient fishermen's trails and Hawaiian Kingdom roads that have been connected through generations of use to form a single continuous route. The Ala Kahakai also provides access to some of the most pristine shoreline remaining in Hawaii,as well as numerous anchialine ponds, which are unique ecosystems given highest protection. The Waimea Trail envisions an opportunity for residents and visitors to experience these lands on foot. 1 f 'T aR Hl — -."—,i 40`,4,4i.,., ', --.,--;, „e- '4"-.-'t Ae; s Air' *4.0. 11 7.. �t : .R .„,,r" +. < :. - '' 1. -w..a.. ,r 0-46 "�0- ,.,+4i� ,i,, Z!'- 7 ''eau g _ 3 aA x �a * ' �2 .• � �" .a a 4 '.�` :� • f*.e,1k -'ley 7 f r + 'c•�'` 40 -' - i ff. )r• • 4.I � •:r:= A J y`� "- - _ _ i 4. ,.ems 1 ., i .1_y , • atom.. _..` �. ,., 4 ,..,5_,C - '-'' •er-:1.,"4.1 f - , _...—tta..adriaillItssib....%sr 1 2'1 Pa'—'-. -- 1, '' '�, .a��•• �pi • Figure 4 and 5..The extensive Kohala field system,once used to a " ! "--•••.�;. � � produce crops including dryland taro to nourish the indigenous 0''` `..{ '•`4.:; _ '`M' '411` • _r��•� residents of the district,can be viewed from the Waimea trail c F increment proposed for purchase. *PC:R.Vitousek 1-13 - - .. #t` ,!r ii-' =• _,.^.r- y.- ."r ,,>s, ;�: t`= - '' x r 'y 4 f,Yt '�uu. cF .tee- ``.✓ .5— t y. .. 40$11ilit 4, . `` i �r yr F -,,,,...--Ansie.t r 1 A Y &+ rpilt - .. ''' "f J, �+ 4x *, J is "• +'I T x 4, 4,,?'`- ,, i r .t„ • '.� R�` `' a• ` h , , l' 1. 1, Y �', • it. * _. '4} Qp` � r ` d 4 ; H, y t d * � • . . , ..., . . ,.... .,..„,, 1 , .,„',, ' ,.. . , , 4.4 -r.:,•• ro.,, .,,,j,;...t 'tittle ip--•*•'. pi v" \ r • • s om r a i A ®;. `t.��161a . iroz "` > W Ot t ` . _ r n to- i Figure 6.The WTG Committee aims to extend the trail from Waimea to the sea,in defined increments.Hualalai,Mauna Kea,and the coastline can be viewed from this portion of the proposed trail,when easements are secured from adjoining landowners. SIGNIFICANCE Waimea has experienced rapid population growth, along with increased cross-island traffic. Lacking sidewalks,pedestrians and bicyclists travelling along the road face dangerous conditions at all times of the day.The Waimea trail could offer far safer pedestrian access to local businesses, schools and workplaces. COMMUNITY SUPPORT The Waimea Trails and Greenways(WTG)Committee oversees the current increment of the Waimea Trail, which is managed entirely by community volunteers,with the occasional assistance of county and military personnel. URGENCY For some segments of the proposed increments, time is of the essence, as lands for sale are anticipated to be developed for housing, precluding later acquisition. This investment in public greenspace is particularly important in the face of current and future development plans,which would increase housing density, as well as traffic congestion, in the area. 1-14 SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY FOR ACQUISITION Acquisition of easements on two TMK properties adjacent to Parker School would provide trail access to the students, enabling them to walk to school on the established trail facing Lindsay Rd. An easement for one property is owned by The Lodge, an acreage of 9000 sq. ft., and another is owned by Parker School, which has committed to providing a portion of the trail. Secondly, a portion of property owned by Hawaii Baptist Church would connect to Church Row, a portion owned by Island Community Lending connects a state parcel to the Baptist Church property. T. . '`'.•-.:e+_� .. ` ``1. ' Lindsey Rd. to Church Row (Increment 2, planned) f .� o� ,,..� Trail annotated in white `JP�r ,: "` _ As '"'-.4, p Pat . % L� GSob;eog � IR Ja _ 65c o4aj6 V'P bV t . � + 6 a • iik. �,„, N � . - R 0 , taa1i Be' + ` as 5 w .1! - ,s s•' 3. , '%i'3 - -: .• �" 0._ A 65o. , /,, •-- I - 1'tr .,, ` 55oo5C, /'.. .7 i. L,PnakIla Park%. 1 - ' v �• A 65c 5oz; ¢ O. ? :1 .L Rp e' - Figure 7. PC.'Clem Lam A trail easement through Parker Ranch is sought across the stream from the Sandalwood subdivision. Parker Ranch plans on developing the parcel someday into a Sandalwood-type development so getting a usable easement through this now is critical to having a trail that can be built safely.This also moves the ste"`" ' �i Z = 4 } Alk,,t�„.��� `cam R 4 r 6 Ilf -` Figure 8,9,and �,. r 'l ' ! ( • .,44., . "4; .'11111' .... 10.Native ':, ''' « i: .1 s / ' 1 Y' k \•. plants'ill°ahi, -.�` . cr a f - 4 -.. .. I i n.-i ,' a z, . u ue,a d ": a'ali'I growing •r, }� �` �,> , '' �� .' , . v ,' � = ,;; on trail �. ' , :r 4. °/, -• • .`� corridor. *PC: ''� y. `` �7 :7 '+ ''" `". ` 4 # -Ne 4'*.. Deborah Ward 1-15 trail further away from Sandalwood residents whose lots go to the center line of the stream. Native plants including sandalwood ('ili'ahi), 'u'ulei, and a'ali'i have been planted along the trail corridor. STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES Weaknesses: One of the most complex problems concerns the lands in Increment 3, which are bisected by the "Old Government Road." To the Commissioners' knowledge, this area has not been officially surveyed by the Hawai'i County in recent years. For this reason, it is unclear if the private landowners or if the County of Hawai'i possess the "right of way" on the old road. The research and effort that will be required to survey, examine, and untangle this legal issue of right of way possession may possibly take many years. Nevertheless, such a difficulty will not deter the Waimea Trail Committee or the PONC Commission from continuing to find a way forward so that these Waimea Trail lands may be purchased and protected by Hawai'i County with the use of PONC funds. Strengths: Ke Ala Kahawai '0 Waimea (The Waimea Trail) is an important effort to ensure the protection and utilization of historical, cultural, and environmental features of the district, as well as to ensure the general safety of the people of Waimea. There are improvements that would make the trail more accessible right in town; PONC conservation easement or fee simple purchase would be necessary so that PONC maintenance funds could be granted. // ww Imo.. _ m WORM 3IN4 PQ(LOR: .IOENOI' E1]UOR ROW tptbY Ram Y R>ARYMw E.. UN*Se I,Card it Can.11P1111.',anew Stab'' Ur.le,MU blaNa. 10. Uram tlMY tQ w o�M -Mr, 110.1 •MEFERNED ALTERNATIVE:N AY RMy toMANN P No. RSW A.RV wi`r h� Figure 11. PC:of Clem Lam List of effected Tax Map Keys are located on the next page. 1-16 Suggestion 23-04 List of Tax Map Keys No. TMK No. (3) Owner GIS Acres 1 62001018 Hale Wailani 159.1640529 2 62001019 Queen Emma Foundation 797.1722359 3 62001051 Ouli Land Company 830.1460249 4 62001074 Hale Wailani 19.88519646 5 62001075 Hale Wailani 237.3212346 6 62001088 Bridge Aina Le'a 0.22947982 7 62001089 Bridge Aina Le'a 0.22789019 8 62002006 Queen Emma Foundation 360.4493836 9 62007001 Govt. County of Hawaii 7.67326922 10 64001032 Govt. State DHHL 47.22209711 11 64001053 Pu'u Ne'e Ne'e LLC 28.34725357 12 64001054 Pu'u Menehune LLc 12.86276574 13 64001060 Govt. State 0.75698445 14 64001114 Curtin, Dennis 0.83519173 15 64001146 Jones, Nancy L Trst 15.81335459 16 64001155 Jones, Nancy L Trst 19.01808731 17 64001999 Old Jeep Road (County/State/In Limbo?) 10.24551142 18 65003001 Bank of Hawaii Trustees 1.7122592 19 65003002 Greenwood Center, LLc 5.04329981 20 65003004 Govt. County of Hawaii 1.16763113 21 65003005 Parker Ranch 1.00546583 22 65003031 Govt. County of Hawaii 0.03149326 23 65003044 Carter Professional Center 2.29178767 24 65003045 Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope 3.15181771 25 65004007 Govt. State 1.93866591 26 65004012 First Baptist Church of Waimea 1.77865412 27 65004015 Govt. State 2.43391888 28 65004025 Parker School 12.21009538 29 65004056 Hawaii Conf. Foundation 0.00920384 30 65004063 Parker School 1.47103597 31 65004099 Parker Ranch 5.556057 32 65004108 Curtin, Dennis 2.06464135 33 65005001 Puna Plantation Hawaii LTD 1.04099997 34 65005009 Apuakea Partners LLC 1.65964669 35 65005018 Parker School 1.21449453 36 65005020 Yim, Rowell A Trst 0.87223994 37 65005021 Kanilehua Traders LLC 0.42598489 38 65005023 Govt. County of Hawaii 0.01745799 39 65005025 Parker School 0.85105079 40 65009102 Govt. State 0.00461984 41 66001002 Govt. State 8353.090423 42 66001010 Govt. State 19.57154343 43 66001038 PR Mauna Kea 209.5815776 44 66001050 Govt. State 8.99915342 45 66001077 Govt. State DHHL 221.3190664 46 66003006 Govt. State 15.85880904 47 66003007 Govt. State 10.10672955 48 66003010 PR Mauna Kea 8.74807995 49 66003013 PR Mauna Kea 16.22250535 11,458.82 duplicates removed original listed 53 TMK. End of Summary Report by Ms. Deborah J Ward, Commissioner 1-17 COUNTY OF HAWAI`I DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE 2023 Annual Report to the Mayor CHAPTER 2 RULES of PRACTICE and PROCEDURE OF THE HAWAII COUNTYS PONC COMMISSION Amended May 31, 2023, by the Commission November 1 7, 2023 RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE OF THE HAWAII COUNTY PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMISSION RULE 1. AUTHORITY These rules and regulations are promulgated by the public access, open space, and natural resources preservation commission in furtherance of the county charter of the County of Hawaii, State of Hawaii Sections 10-15 and 10-16 and pursuant to Chapter 2,Article 42, Sections 2-214 through 2-218, of the Hawai`i County Code, 1983 (2005 Edition, as amended). RULE 2. GOALS The goals of the commission are: (a) to solicit suggestions from the community for lands considered to be worthy of preservation; (b) to provide the mayor of the County of Hawai`i with an island wide list of prioritized properties; (c) to review stewardship grant applications and to recommend recipients of stewardship grants from the maintenance fund to the department of finance; (d) to monitor the performance of the stewardship grant recipients to ensure proper stewardship,preservation and conservation of the lands and easements acquired by the public access, open space„ and natural resources preservation fund; and (e) to explore methods of funding land acquisition, stewardship, and make recommendations to the mayor. RULE 3. DEFINITIONS Wherever used in these rules and regulations, the following terms shall be taken to have the following meaning: (a) "Charter"means the county charter of the County of Hawaii, State of Hawai`i. (b) "Commission,""Chair,""Vice Chair" and"Commissioner"mean the public access, open space, and natural resources preservation commission of the County of Hawai`i, its chair, its vice chair and a member thereof, respectively. (c) "Council"means the county council of the County of Hawaii. (d) "Department"means the department of finance of the County of Hawai`i or its authorized representative. (e) "Director"means the director of finance of the County of Hawaii. 2- 1 - (f) "HRS"means Hawai`i Revised Statutes, as may be amended from time to time. (g) "Mayor"means the mayor of the County of Hawai`i. (h) "Meeting"means the convening of the commission for which a quorum is required to make a decision or to deliberate toward a decision upon a matter over which the commission has advisory power. (i) "Person"means when appropriate to the context, not only individuals,but corporations, firms, associations, societies, and federal, state, and county departments or agencies. (j) "Presiding Officer"means the chair of the commission, or in the chair's absence,the vice chair, or in the absence of both the chair and the vice chair, the acting chair appointed pursuant to Rule 6-2. (k) "Public Record" shall have the meaning set forth in Chapter 92, HRS, and shall include maps,rules and regulations,written statements of policy or interpretation formulated, adopted or used by the commission in its functions, all decisions, orders,minutes of the meetings and records of any docket on file with the commission but shall not include records which invade the right of privacy of an individual. (1) "Rules"means these rules of practice and procedure of the commission. (m)"Secretary"means the secretary of the commission. RULE 4. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The duties and responsibilities include: (a) The commission staff may accept suggestion forms from the public at any time throughout the year and shall forward to the commission all complete suggestion forms received by January 31 of each year to the commission for evaluation. The commission may conduct interviews and perform site visits in accordance with Rule 6-4(h) and other activities reasonably necessary to formulate a recommendation; (b) The commission shall adopt and utilize a standard assessment criteria form for use in evaluating and scoring each parcel or easement. The factors for scoring shall be those set forth in the charter and Hawai`i County Code Section 2-214.1(c). The assessment criteria form shall assign each factor set forth in the code a range of points,the total of which shall be one hundred (100)points. The commission shall give emphasis to acquisitions where the County's contribution can be leveraged to obtain State,Federal, and/or private funds. Those proposed parcels or easements receiving fifty (50)points or more of the total available assessment criteria points in conformance with the assessment criteria form shall be included in the priority list. Those parcels or easements receiving less than fifty (50)points of the total available assessment criteria points in conformance with the assessment criteria form shall be noted in the annual report but not included in the priority list; (c) From the submitted suggestions received annually,the commission shall develop and submit to the mayor an island-wide priority list of qualifying lands or easements worthy of preservation. The priority list shall prioritize parcels and easements on an 2-2 - island-wide rather than district basis. The list shall include the significance of each parcel or easement identified, the reason for its priority, and its anticipated use after acquisition; (d) The commission shall update the priority list by December 31 of each year and include the priority list in an annual report to the mayor,which shall be transmitted to the mayor within a reasonable period of time following the annual update of the priority list; (e) The commission shall explore methods of funding land acquisition and make recommendations to the mayor; (f) The commission staff may receive grant applications from the public at any time throughout the year and shall forward all complete grant applications received by August 15 of each year to the commission for evaluation. Incomplete applications and applications received after the August 15th deadline shall be rejected for the current year but may be accepted for following year consideration. The commission shall review stewardship grant applications, business plans,management plans, agreements, and other documentation accompanying grant applications. The commission may conduct interviews and perform site visits in accordance with Rule 6- 4(h) and other activities reasonably necessary to formulate a recommendation. The commission shall make recommendations to the director of the department regarding applications for stewardship grants from the maintenance fund. Recommendations shall address whether grant applicants have the ability to complete their proposed projects according to the project plan, on time, and within cost estimates, in accordance with section 10-16(h) of the Charter; and • (g) The commission shall review stewardship grant recipient performance reports, conduct interviews, and perform site visits and other activities necessary to verify that grant objectives are being met. The commission shall forward its findings to the director. RULE 5. PURPOSE These rules govern the practice and procedure of the commission and provide a systematic and democratic method of conducting meetings in order to ensure that all persons will have an opportunity to participate in an open,productive, and orderly manner. RULE 6. ORGANIZATION AND PARLIMENTARY RULES 6-1. ORGANIZATION The commission shall consist of nine members. One member shall reside in each county council district. The members shall be appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the council. The members may be removed upon recommendation by the 2 - 3 - mayor and the approval of the council. The members shall serve staggered terms of five years. Staff support shall be provided by the department. 6-2 ELECTION OF CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR At the last regularly scheduled meeting of each year, the commission shall elect a chair and vice chair from among its members. They shall serve for a term of one year or until their successors are duly elected. No member shall succeed himself or herself as chair. In the event the commission is not able to elect a chair or vice chair from among its members at its last regularly scheduled meeting,the incumbent chair may serve on a hold-over basis for a term not to exceed ninety(90) days. In the absence of both chair and vice chair,the remaining members shall elect an acting chair who shall preside for only the meeting at which the acting chair is elected. 6-3 QUORUM AND NUMBER OF VOTES NECESSARY FOR A DECISION A majority (five) of all the commissioners to which the commission is entitled shall constitute a quorum to transact business. The affirmative vote of a majority of those commissioners present shall be necessary to make any action valid. 6-4 MEETINGS The commission may meet and perform its duties in any part of the County of Hawai`i. Except as provided by law, all meetings are open to the public. (a) Regular Meetings -Regular meetings of the commission for the transaction of its business shall be held in person on the second Monday of every alternate month, January, March,May, July, September, and November, or as otherwise scheduled and duly noticed by the commission. (b) Special Meetings-A special meeting may be called by the chair when the date,time, and place of such special meeting is announced prior to adjournment of a regular meeting. Otherwise, a special meeting can be called upon the satisfaction of all requirements for a meeting set forth in HRS §92-8. (c) Conduct of Meetings -All meetings of the commission shall be conducted in accordance with the State of Hawai`i Public Agency Meetings and Records Law, HRS, Chapter 92, and the most recent edition of Robert's Rules of Order. (d) Notice - The commission shall provide written public notice of every regular, special, or rescheduled meeting, or any executive meeting in compliance with HRS §92-7. The notice shall include an agenda, which lists all of the items to be considered at the forthcoming meeting,the date, time, and place of the meeting, and in the case of an executive meeting,the purpose shall be stated. The notice and agenda must be filed in the county clerk's office at least six(6) calendar days prior to the meeting. 2 -4- (e) Adjournment-Meetings may be adjourned at any time by vote of the commissioners present at the meeting, and unless otherwise specified in the motion, every adjournment shall be deemed to be until the next meeting of the commission. (f) Continuation of decision making Any matter which fails to be determined by a majority concurrence of the commissioners present may be continued to any subsequent regular meeting. (g) Effective date of commission decision-Unless a specific effective date is set forth,the effective date of a decision rendered by the commission shall be the date of the meeting at which such valid decision was made. (h) Site visits policy- Site,visits shall be conducted according to the provisions of HRS §92-2.5: (1) Site visits conducted by the full commission shall be properly noticed and conducted according to these rules and ADA accessibility requirements. All discussion shall be"on the record"and no decision making shall occur while on the visit. (2) Informal site visits may be conducted by only two commissioners on an informal basis with no report to the commission required. Any report which may be given must be put on the agenda. (3) Site visits may be conducted by up to four commissioners as a "permitted interaction group" as set forth in HRS Chapter 92. (4) All site visits shall be respectful of private property, and lacking owner permission to enter the subject property, shall only be conducted from nearby or adjacent public properties. Participating commissioners shall obtain permission to enter onto private property from the landowner or their representative and provide written evidence thereof to the department. 6-5 MINUTES Minutes-In accordance with HRS §92-9,the commission shall keep written minutes of all meetings. Unless otherwise required by law, neither a full transcript nor a recording of the meeting is required,but the written minutes shall give a true reflection of the matters discussed at the meeting and the views of the participants. Minutes shall include: (a) The date,time, and place of the meeting; (b) The commissioners recorded as either present or absent; (c) The substance of all matters proposed, discussed, or decided; and a record, by individual commissioner, of any votes taken; and (d) Any other information that any commissioner requests be included or reflected in the minutes. 2 -5 - The minutes shall be public record and shall be available within 40 days after the meeting except where such disclosure would be inconsistent with HRS §92-5 or Section 13-20 of the Charter;provided that minutes of executive meetings may be withheld so long as their publication would defeat the lawful purpose of the executive meeting,but no longer. 6-6 OFFICERS AND THEIR DUTIES Presiding Officer- The chair shall be the presiding officer of the commission and the vice chair shall be the presiding officer in the absence of the chair. In the absence of both the chair and the vice-chair,the meeting may proceed upon the presence of a quorum of the members and the election by the members then present of an acting chair to act pursuant to Rule 6-2 to act as the presiding officer for the duration of the meeting. The presiding officer shall: (a) Open all meetings of the commission by taking the chair and calling the meeting to order; (b) Call for the approval of the minutes of any preceding meetings when a quorum is present; (c) Maintain order and proper decorum based on Robert's Rules of Order; (d) Announce the business before the commission in the order prescribed by these rules; (e) Review all matters properly brought before the commission, call for votes upon the same and announce the results; (f) Appoint all permitted interaction groups unless otherwise ordered by the commission; (g) Authenticate by signature all acts of the commission as may be required by law,unless delegated to the director; (h) Do and perform such other duties as may be required by law, or such as may properly appertain to such office; (i) Make known all rules of order when so requested, and to decide all questions of order, subject to an appeal to the commission; (j) Take into consideration such matters as shall not be within the scope of the duties or powers of any permitted interaction group of the commission; or as may be referred by the commission, and to report thereon,together with such recommendations relative thereto as deemed advisable; and (k) Represent the commission in all functions, as directed by the commission or designate a representative from the membership of the commission. (1) Set meeting agendas in consultation with staff. 6-7 STANDARDS OF CONDUCT Disclosure of Interest—The conflict of interest provisions of the Hawai`i County Code shall apply to the commissioners. Whenever a possible conflict of 2 - 6 - interest or other ethical question on any matter pending before the commission or any of its permitted interaction groups is raised by anyone regarding a commissioner, the affected commissioner shall promptly make a disclosure to the commission. When a commissioner has made a disclosure and is deemed by the commission to have a conflict of interest, such conflict shall apply to all subsequent actions relating to said matter. The conflicted commissioner shall comply with the conflict of interest provisions of the Hawai`i County Code. 6-8 SUSPENSION OF THE RULES For good cause,the commission may vote to suspend the rules. 6-9 SEVERABILITY If any provision of these rules or the application thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid,the invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications of these rules which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of these rules are severable. RULE 7. PUBLIC RECORDS,INSPECTION AND AVAILABILITY 7-1 INSPECTION OF PUBLIC RECORDS All public records shall be available for inspection and copying by any person during established office hours and within reasonable timelines unless public inspection of such records is in violation of any other state or federal law. 7-2 WHERE AVAILABLE (a) The public may obtain information on matters within the jurisdiction of the commission at the department by inquiring at the principal place of business. All rules, orders or opinions of the department are on file and available for public inspection at the office during business hours at 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1101,Hilo, Hawaii 96720-4252. (b) Inquiry may be made in person at the department during business hours or by submitting a request for information in writing to the commission, c/o Department of Finance, 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1101, Hilo,Hawai`i 96720-4252. 7-3 COPIES OF PUBLIC RECORDS Copies of public records may be requested by members of the public and shall be provided as required by HRS Chapter 92 and Chapter 92F, including if applicable the payment of any fees or costs. 7-4 DENIAL OF INSPECTION Any person aggrieved by the denial by the officer having custody of any public record of the right to inspect the record or to obtain copies of extracts thereof may seek enforcement action pursuant to HRS Chapter 92 or Chapter 92F. • 2 -7- Adopted on May 8, 2023,by the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission: �a Oa DEBORAH L. CHANG Date Chairperson Approved as to form and legality: 2S ACA.6 K. C ELL Date Deputy Corporation Counsel Approved: ( MITCHELL D. ROTH Date Mayor, County of Hawai`i I hereby certify that the foregoing Rules of Practice and Procedure of the Hawaii County Public Access, Open Space, and natural Resources Preservation Commission was received and filed in my office on this 31st day of May,2023. • ► . .i!_ - S County Clerk 2 - 8- COUNTY OF HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE 2023 Annual Report to the Mayor CHAPTER 3 STEWARDSHIP GRANT Progress Reports are located on the County of Hawai'i website: https;//records.hawaiicounty.gov/weblink/Browse.aspx?dbid=l&startid=13770&cr=1 November 17, 2023 2024 LIST OF STEWARDSHIP GRANT APPLICATIONS GRANT YEAR JULY 1, 2024—JUNE 30, 2025 Deadline to file was on August 31, 2023 STU. 24- Applicant Property Tax Map Key No. (3)- Amount Requested $ 01 Kohanaiki `Ohana O'oma Beach, N. Kona 7-3-009:004 41,400.00 02 Pohaha I Ka Lani Waipi'o Lookout, Hamakua 4-8-004:006 114,940.00 03 Hawaii Enviromental Restoration, MA Wai`ele, Puna 1-4-003:003, 037 23,587.00 04 Hawaii Enviromental Restoration, MP Wai`ele, Puna 1-4-003:003, 037 7,990.00 05 Hawaii Farmers Union Kohala Chapter, Banyan's Tree, Hawi 5-5-015:042 MP 29,500.00 05 Hawaii Farmers Union Kohala Chapter, Banyan's Tree, Hawi 5-5-015:042 MA 29,000.00 06 Ho'omalu Ka'u Kahua Olohu 9-5-012:005 26,500.00 07 Friends of Amy BH Greenwell * Amy BH Greenwell 8-2-013:002, 003, 014 Enthobotanical Gardens Gardens 8-2-014:043; 8-2-015:059 223,200.00 08 Ala Kahakai Trails Association, * Waikapuna, Kaunamano, Various totaling 10 Ranger Program and Kiloka'a, Ka`u parcels 132,500.00 09 Ala Kahakai Trails Association, MP * Kaunamano, Ka`u 9-5-001, 004, 005, 006 9-5-012:001 80,000.00 10 Ala Kahakai Trails Association, MP * Kiolaka'a, Ka`u 9-4-001-008, 009, 016, 017, and 023 173,500.00 11 Na Maka Haloa 0 Waipio Poho`iki, Puna 1-3-008:097 260,000.00 12 Malama 0 Puna, MP Wai`ele, Puna 1-4-003:003, 037 104,000.00 12 Malama 0 Puna Wai`ele, Puna 1-4-003:003, 037 369,699.00 * = Conservation Easement by the County of Hawaii MA = Maintenance Activities and Public Education MP = Management Planning