HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0164.021 2024-2026P / LAC,
Comm 10
March 17, 2025
AGENDA ITEM: Resolution #95 for Purchase Kawainui Makai
Aloha County Council,
I am writing in strong support of the resolution to begin negotiations to purchase the 'aina of
Kawainui Makai (TMK 2-7-11:01 & 2-7-10:27) in perpetuity by the County through the PONC
process.
My name is Wai Wichimai and I serve as the Coordinator for the Makahanaloa Fishing
Association. Though I am fairly new to this non-profit, I deeply admire the dedication of our
members and the broader community in protecting the 'aina they love and care for.
While I have yet to visit Kawainui personally, the mo'olelo shared by our fishermen make it clear
that this place is truly special. They speak of Kawainui with deep reverence, respect and awe. It
is evident how vital this area has been to them for generations. Protecting places like Kawainui
is not just about preserving history, it is also about safeguarding the ecological resources of this
place. It is one of the best preserved estuaries and stream systems on the island due to the lack
of development in the area.
For over a thousand years, Kawainui stream has been an important gathering area for the north
Hilo community. Without swift action, this property could be purchased and privatized, severing
long standing, deeply rooted relationships. The State of Hawaii Legacy Lands program has
matched funding for purchase at $1,000,000 and has rated the application as very strong. It is
critical that the County acts now to secure this property before someone else does. To date
there have been NO PONC purchases of 'aina in the whole moku of Hilo and I would like to see
that trend changed.
I urge the County Council to approve this resolution to enter negotiations to purchase Kawainui.
Kawainui is more than just a stream and land, it is a piko, for this community, a place of history,
and a generational resource.
Please help preserve Kawainui for the generations to come.
Mahalo,
Wai Wichimai
Keaukaha,Hl
Coordinator-Makahanaloa Fishing Association
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