HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0786.020 2022-2024 P/PCHo
billWy
COMM.
From: Ellen Meiser
Sent: Sunday, March 31, 2024 8:41 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Support for Bill 144-24
Aloha Policy Committee,
I am a resident of Hilo, a member of Big Island Beekeeping Association, and run a small-2.5 acre
orchard within the bounds of Hilo town. One of the vital aspects of my orchard is the presence of bees--
without them, my lychee and citrus trees lack pollination and cannot produce the fruit and
corresponding revenue required by County law.
Bill 144-24 loosens many of the outdated and unnecessary regulations surrounding beekeeping near
major roadways and according to zoning district. It also allows apiaries the ability to cultivate more hives
per square feet-- something that is deeply needed everywhere as global population of bees continues to
decrease. Last, it encourages, though far more reasonable rules, hobbyist beekeepers, who are the
stepping stones for the industry.
I encourage you to pass Bill 144-24. It is necessary for our agriculture industry, environment, and out
county-wide efforts to be more sustainable and self-sufficient. The island of Hawai'i only stands to
benefit from this Bill.
Mahalo nui loa for your consideration,
Ellen Meiser 071
Ellen T. Meiser, PhD
Assistant Professor of Sociology
College of Arts and Sciences
University of Hawaii at Hilo
www.ellenmeiserlau.com 715
Com m. No. 11
Ref. To: 9.11114!
1
Ref. Date ! Q - 2 2024