HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0377.382 2024-2026From: Anne Shiparski
Sent: Saturday, August 16, 2025 6:26 PM
To: Council Testimony
Cc: Kimball, Heather, Kagiwada, Jennifer, Onishi, Dennis; Kierkiewicz, Ashley; Kanealii-
Kleinfelder, Matt; Hustace, James; Galimba, Michelle M.; Villegas, Rebecca; Inaba,
Holeka
Subject: Strong Support of Resolution 234-25 o
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Mahalo for the opportunity to testify in support of Resolution 234-25, which calls on the state to protect
the health and safety of Hawaii Island residents by halting all bombing and destructive training at
PohakuLoa Training Area (PTA), rejecting land swaps or lease renewals that lack strict safeguards, and
conducting a full Ka Pa'akai Analysis of the region.
For more than six decades, ongoing military activity at PTA has significantly affected the Saddle Region
aquifer system, cultural sites, and surrounding ecosystems. Concerns about hazardous materials,
includingwhite phosphorus and depleted uranium, alongside the risks posed by wildfires, underscore
the urgent need for oversight and remediation. The Board of Land and Natural Resources' May 2025
decision not to approve PTA's Final Environmental Impact Statement highlights gaps in archaeology,
endangered species assessments, and cultural evaluations, factors central to the Ka Pa'akai framework.
This resolution calls for accountability, clear boundaries, and respect for public trust lands. Approving it
demonstrates Hawai'i County's commitment to its communities, cultural practitioners, and
environmental stewards, ensuring that decisions affecting the'aina are transparent, responsible; and
guided by long-term sustainability.
Mahalo for your consideration,
Anne Shiparski
Comm. o f. To:
Ref. Date AUG 1 &92 0 2 5