HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0377.143 2024-2026From:
Joel] Edwards
Sent:
Sunday, August 17, 2025 1:14 PM
To:
Council Testimony
Subject:
Support of Resolution 234-25
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Aloha Committee Members,
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write today in strong support of Resolution 234-25. Ln -
U.S. Military training at Pohakuloa has already inflicted serious harm —burning nearly 20,000 acres,
contaminating the land, and threatening endangered species. Beneath this training area lies a major
aquifer that supplies fresh water to Hawai'i Island. Given the military's long record of environmental
negligence, they have shown they are not equipped to safeguard such a critical resource.
There is also grave concern regarding depleted uranium left in the soil. This toxic substance can become
airborne duringtraining exercises and poses known health risks to communities and ecosystems.
Pohakuloa is a wahi pana—a sacred and storied place with profound cultural and ecological
significance. Continued military occupation and use of this area is fundamentally incompatible with both
its conservation status and the values of aloha'aina that we, as a people, are called to uphold.
I urge you to support Resolution 234-25 to protect the land, the water, and the people of Hawaii from
further harm.
Mahalo for your time and commitment.
With Aloha,
Joell M. Edwards
Wainiha , Kaua'i Resident & Community Leader
Comm. I
Ref. To:
Ref. Dute ,AUG 1 2025