HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0459.001 2024-2026I P/ LAAG
Aloha Council Chair and LAAC Committee Members, P0' Q_%-25
C0�.1��T`�' Ci..L KK
COUNTY OF H�WM Comm- 4,5q
I am writing in strong support of Resolution #286-25, which is scheduled to be heard on Tuesday, September 2,
2026. 2025 SEP - 2 PH i = 10
The 364+ acres known as Honolulu Landing represent far more than just land; they are the site of an Ancient
Historical Hawaiian Village that must be preserved and protected from commercial development. Honolulu
Landing encompasses the entire ahupua`a of Honolulu in Puna —a pana (storied place) of profound cultural,
historical, and ecological significance.
It is important to recognize that these parcels were already approved for acquisition by PONC in 2007.. Sadly,
negotiations were never carried through to completion, leaving Honolulu vulnerable to further desecration and
irreversible loss. That must not happen.
The Honolulu ahupua`a contains one of the oldest undisturbed village sites along the Puna coastline. This
coastline is historically recognized as one of the very first areas settled by Polynesians voyaging from the South
Pacific. Within this landscape remain numerous intact cultural sites, including house sites, agricultural complexes,
and sacred burial areas. These features not only demonstrate the ingenuity and resilience of our kupuna but
also qualify the area for listing as a State Historic Site.
Equally important, the Hawaiian Lineal Descendants have expressed full support for protecting Honolulu Landing
as open space, ensuring that it remains a place of reuerence, cultural practice, and education for present and future
generations.
o, There are three (3) critical reasons why this land must be acquired by the County of Hawaii through PONC:
1. Cultural and Historical Significance
Honolulu Landing contains an extensive traditional village complex with house sites, agricultural
features, and numerous burials. These provide irreplaceable insight into the lifeways,
spirituality, and resilience of our kupuna. To allow commercial development here would mean the
permanent destruction of knowledge and history that can never be recovered.
2. Subsistence and Community Needs
o The land provides critical shoreline access that continues to sustain. subsistence fishing practices
,ky✓ y. _ shoreline in 'N tlsetivy+b'Y 'r 9-si�._h v S!a r
for the Puna district. For generations, families have relied upon this coastline for food, cultural
practice, and spiritual nourishment. Protecting Honolulu ensures these practices can continue in
perpetuity.
3. Mandate of PONC
o Acquiring Honolulu Landing fulfills the mandate of PONC to protect Hawal`i's unique cultural and
riatUfal resourdes. It also creates opportunities for cultural education, conic Urilty-l4ased
stewardship, and intergenerational learning. Preservation here strengthens identity, resilience,
and the deep connection between people and Aina.
To sell this sacred place to developers would be nothing less than a desecration of Hawaiian culture, history,
and spirituality. Such a loss would be permanent and irretrievable.
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Therefore, I respectfully and urgently urges Mayor Alameda, the Hawaii County Council, the LAAC, and the
PONC Commission to reaffirm and complete the purchase acquisition that was already approved in 2007. This is
' not just a matter of protecting land —it is a matter of honoring our kupuna, upholding our cultural identity, and
f ensuring that the people of Hawaii can continue to connect with and care for this wahi pana.
Mahalo nut loa for your thoughtful consideration of this urgent matter.
With respect and aloha,
Comm. Sq
Sandee Maeda_.. Ref. To:
Resident of Kea`au.-Waikahakaha (Hawaiian Paradise Park) Ref. Dote_,SE -