HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0377.044 2024-2026Wayne Nishijima
377 Huali PI
Hilo, HI 96720
wayne.nishijima@gmail.com
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808-987-6036
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July 19, 2025
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Chairperson and Members
Policy Committee on Environmental and Natural Resource Management
Hawaii County Council
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, HI 96720
Subject: Opposition to Resolution No. 234-25 Regarding the Pohakuloa Training Area
Aloha Chairperson and Committee Members,
I am writing to respectfully urge the Policy Committee on Environmental and Natural
Resource Management to oppose the passage of Resolution No. 234-25, which calls for the
cessation of military activities at the Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA), the rejection of land
swaps and lease renewals, and the imposition of additional stipulations on military use of
the area.
While I understand and appreciate the concerns raised regarding environmental
stewardship and cultural preservation, I believe that this resolution does not fully consider
the critical role PTA plays in ensuring the safety and preparedness of our community.
Comm. I J
Lef. To:
Ref.. fate JUL 2 2 20
PTA is an essential training ground for the Hawaii National Guard, law enforcement
agencies, and first responders. Its unique terrain and location provide irreplaceable
opportunities for readiness training that directly supports disaster response, homeland
security, and defense operations. In a state as geographically isolated as Hawaii,
maintaining a robust and well -trained emergency response infrastructure is not optional —
it is vital.
PTA also employs over 100 full time members who are residents of the Big Island who will
lose their jobs should PTA be closed to training.
Furthermore, the U.S. Army has made significant efforts to address environmental and
cultural concerns at PTA. These include:
- Ongoing environmental monitoring and remediation programs;
- Cultural resource management plans developed in consultation with Native Hawaiian
organizations;
- Public transparency through Environmental Impact Statements and community
engagement
Rather than rejecting continued military use outright, I respectfully propose that the County
advocate for a land exchange that would allow the military to retain access to PTA while
returning other lands of cultural or environmental significance to the State or Native
Hawaiian stewardship. This approach would better balance the needs of public safety,
cultural preservation, and environmental protection.
I urge the Committee to consider the broader implications of this resolution and to work
collaboratively with all stakeholders —including the military, Native Hawaiian leaders, and
environmental experts —to find a solution that serves the best interests of all residents of
Hawaii Island.
Mahalo for your time and thoughtful consideration.
Respectfully,
signed
Wayne T. Nishijima