HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0786.027 2022-2024 PC14SW
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CDMI4,706.
March 31, 2024
Testimony: Bill 144 (Bee Bill)
David P. Thomas
Dear Committee Members,
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I support Bill 144 as it is written. Y
I am David P. Thomas, general manager of Paradise Queen Hawai'i. . , w`:;'
As a commercial operation, one of the most important aspects of this bill to
amend Hawai'l County Code, Ch. 25 Zoning to peFmit beekeeping in all districts and
remove requirement that apiaries be set back 1000 feet from major roadways. We have
mutually beneficial agreements with most of the larger macadamia and tropical fruit
farms on the Hilo side of the Island. It is to our advantage and the benefit of these farms
to be able to place the apiaries where they are needed. We work with the farm managers
and always try to place the apiaries where they will not interfere with normal farming
practices. We also produce mite resistant queens which are sold on Island but mainly to
many beekeeping companies on the Mainland for pollination an&honey production
purposes.
I wish to reiterate that I support Bill 144. It is good for the entire beekeeping
community from the hobbyist to the largest commercial companies. It is in our best
interest to follow best management practices and to have good relations with our
neighbors.
Thank you for the opportunity to give testimony in favor of Bill 144.
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David P.Thomas
General Manager
Paradise Queen Hawai'i
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