HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0372.131 2024-2026From: Addie Berliner
Sent: Monday, September 15, 2025 1A8 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: County Council hearing on Hawaii County Plan 2045 (Resilience section)
Honorable Council Members,
Thank you for this opportunity to testify. As someone with four decades of planning experience across multiple
jurisdictions —from licensed builder in four states to real estate broker —I've worked extensively with Planning and Zoning
departments and comprehensive plans.
You have created something exceptional here. This document reflects genuine community input and embodies the
Hawaiian values of respect for the'aina that make this place sacred. Yes, it's comprehensive, but that's precisely its
strength. Every section demonstrates thoughtful deliberation, every action item is both understandable and
achievable. Most importantly, this plan captures what we all want for our island home: o
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• Protection from invasive species
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• More housing for our families
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• Resilient infrastructure that can weather tomorrow's storms
• Safeguarded watersheds and cultural sites
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• Transportation solutions that serve our community
• A sustainable future worthy of our grandchildren
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The science is clear: our planet is warming due to human activity. As residents of a rocky island facing rising seas,
we cannot afford denial or delay. Climate action isn't political —it's survival. We must protect our water supply, our
discharge systems, and our very foundation against the changes already underway.
This document is more than a plan —it's a beacon for 21st-century leadership. You've traveled far to reach this
moment. Now, complete this vital work. Our island's future, and our children's future, depends on the courage you show
today.
Thank you for your service and for this opportunity to speak. I write this as a concerned citizen of the Big Island, but as
Co -Facilitator of Indivisible Hilo One, the local chapter of the non -partisan pro -democracy national group.
Terry McDonald 704-390-6221
Organizer, Co -Facilitator
Indivisible Hilo One
I am In full Support of Terry McDonald's Position!
Addie Berliner 808 895-3687
Comm. II
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