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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0377.139 2024-2026From: Malialani Dullanty Sent: Monday, August 18, 2025 5:33 AM To: Council Testimony on Subject: Support Res.234-25 c ao C= -�•T w o Aloha Mai Committee Members, ;¢ T+r, > T My name is Malialani Dullanty. I am a Native Hawaiian and resident of Moku o Keawe, Big Islanlc, and am emailingto encourage you to support Resolution 234-25. v"; -- US Military training at Pohakuloa and throughout the pae'aina has caused immense environmental and ecological damage, as well as emotional and psychological harm for Kanaka Maoli and kama'aina. At Pohakuloa the military has repeatedly burned nearly 20,000 acres, often spreading outside the base, contaminating the land, and threatening endangered species. They have also refused to clean up munitions, which also sometimes are found outside the base, leading to a poisoning of the soil, a danger for plants and animals, as well as hikers and other civilians working on the saddle. Beneath Pohakuloa lies a major aquifer that supplies freshwater to Hawai'i Island, which is at constant risk due to the poisoning of the air and soil, as well as the repeated bombing. Kaho'olawe, which supported military munitions tests for years, has a cracked water table, left over munitions, and is only now, 50 years later, beginning to regenerate the loss of life. There is also serious concern about depleted uranium left in the soil, which can become airborne during exercises and has known health risks. The military has also used illegal munitions, such as white phosphorus, which can travel on the wind and affect local residents. The military's track record shows they are not equipped to safely discharge weapons, perform cleanup, or even accurately report on their activities. I have read the EIS statements provides in the past, going backto the opening of Pohakuloa, and the US Military has never responsibly cared for the land they lease. This is especially concerning as Pohakuloa is a wahi pana - a sacred place with deep cultural and ecological significance. Continued military use is incompatible with its conservation status and the values of aloha'aina. Please support this resolution to protect the land, water, plants, animals, and people of Hawaii. Mahalo. Malama, Malialani Dullanty Laupahoehoe, Hawai'i Comm. v lbq Ref. To: Ref. Date UG 9 cV 1