HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0372.152 2024-2026COUNTY CLERK
COUNTY OF }�N,�1 .
2075 SEP 15 PH 2: 36
Honorable Council Members,
Thankyou for this opportunity to testify on the General Plan.
As a volunteer interested in the well-being of our island communities, among other things I
founded the Kapehu community Neighborhood Watch in Papaaloa, and was the District 1
representative to the Redistricting Commission in 2020.
But most importantly for discussion of the General Plan, I participated in the community
process that led from talk -story sessions in our homes to the creation of the
comprehensive Hamakua Community Development Plan. In reviewing the General Plan,
I'm gratified that the community plans developed by thousands of island residents
provided much of the basis for this island -wide Plan. It has a vision of the future that
preserves the values we hold dear, that protects our'aina, and provides a decent life for our
people. The Plan charts a path from where we are today to get to where we aspire to be in
the decades to come.
But that future is threatened by climate change. It is not a problem that will face us later, it
is already upon us. Without a plan of action, we will be picking up speed toward a cliff with
our eyes closed. Also, our island has become increasingly unaffordable for local farmers
and for the younger generation. Economic development that benefits ordinary residents
requires prior thought. Without a Plan, instead of preserving ourruraL and agricultural
character, the island will become the for -profit playground for the few.
We cannot achieve our dreams as individuals; it will require community effort and
government interventions. That's why many of us volunteer in the community, and why
what you do as our elected representatives is critically important.
Thank you for your diligence, and your commitment to what is best for the most. Please
support the General Plan.
Meizhu Lui
808 345-9024
POBox 175, Papaaloa HI 96780
Comm. I
ef. To:
Ref. Oat SEP 17 2025