HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0520.036 2022-2024 P /Council
Di(( 7
COMM.520
From: Natalia Zelaya
Sent: Tuesday, December 05, 2023 11:58 AM
To: Council Testimony
C.
12/5/2023
Subject: Preservation of Millie's Deli and Snack Shop in Hilo, HI
Dear to Whom it May Concern,
I am writing to you as a concerned member of Hilo, Hawaii. It has come to our attention that our
beloved deli, a cornerstone of this community, is under threat due to a proposed development plan
to construct a car lot on its current site. This letter serves as a plea and a testament to the integral role
our shop plays in the fabric of our town.
For the past 19, Millie's has been more than just a place of business. It has been a gathering spot for
families, a supporter of local produce, and a contributor to our local economy. Their presence goes
beyond serving meals; they foster community connections and support local suppliers, thereby
reinforcing the economic health of our town. Working as a neighbor at Hilo Ice Coffee, my talks with
transient customers and professional business relationships has always held Millie's in high regard as
they serve our community graciously.
The proposal to replace our shop with a car lot is not only a decision that affects a single business but
one that will alter the character and dynamics of our community. A car lot, with its industrial nature, is
not just an aesthetic concern but also a potential source of increased traffic and pollution. It stands in
stark contrast to the community-friendly and eco-conscious values our deli upholds, and what Hilo
should aim to uphold.
Furthermore, a car lot does not enrich the lives of our community members in any capacity. Currently
there are 14 car lots/dealerships in a short 3 mile radius in Hilo. Another car lot clearly is not what Hilo
needs, and should not be built at the cost of community and Aloha.
I understand the complexities of property ownership and development. However, I firmly believe that
the value of a local business like ours, deeply embedded in the community's history and daily life, is
immeasurable. We urge you to consider alternative solutions that could accommodate both economic
development and the preservation of the shop.
In closing, I appeal to your sense of community and request your support in this matter. Millie's is
more than just a deli; it is a symbol of what Aloha stands for - unity, support for local businesses, and
a commitment to maintaining a vibrant community spirit. -
- Comm.No. S ZD.36-
1 Ref. To: -P (Quq(iA
Ref. Date 0, .0 - 5 202,3
Thank you for taking the time to consider our' plea. We hope for a positive outcome that supports the
growth and sustenance of our beloved town.
Sincerely,
Natalia Zelaya Customer and Business Neighbor nzelaya@hawaii.edu
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