HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0159.094 2024-2026P /5. counci (
,Bill 5a
CAMM. l59
From:
Phyllis Klicker
Sent:
Monday, May 19, 2025 2:38 PM
To:
Council Testimony
Z4 oC_�r
Cc:
Phyllis Klicker
Subject:
Testimony In Support Of Funding For The Initial Engineering
Of Waikoloa's-Second
Arterial Road
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Aloha Chair and Members of the Council,
_
My name is Phyllis Klicker, and I am a resident of Waikoloa Village. I am writing today with deep concern
for the safety of our community, and I urge you to support Communication 159.41 to amend Bill No. 32,
Draft 2, which would fund the initial engineeringfor a second arterial road in Waikoloa.
As someone who lived through the last evacuation, I can tell you —it was terrifying. It took nearly two
hours to get out of the village. In a true emergency, especially a fast-moving wildfire, that kind of delay
could be catastrophic. There is only one road in and out of Waikoloa. One road for thousands of people.
Wildfire is not a hypothetical threat here. In 2021, the largest wildfire in Hawai`i's recorded history came
within just three miles of our homes. That fire could have reached us, and if it had, we would not have
been able to get out in time. Our community is growing rapidly, and with the population set to double in
the next 20 years, this situation will only become more dangerous.
I know there are many competing needs in the county budget. But this.isn't just about convenience —this
is about survival. We have a rare chance to take action before tragedy strikes. A second road is not a
luxury. It is an essential lifeline.
Please vote `yes' on this amendment. The lives of Waikoloa residents depend on it.
Mahalo for your time and for prioritizing our safety.
Sincerely,
Phyllis and Greg Klicker
Waikoloa Village Resident
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