HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0377.435 2024-2026From: Lynda Lovon
Sent: Sunday, August 17, 2025 8:08 PM
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To: Council Testimony
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Cc: Villegas, Rebecca; Kagiwada, Jennifer
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Subject: Testimony on Resolution 234-25
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Aloha Chair and Council Members,
Mahalo for the opportunity to testify in strong support of Resolution 234-25.
I urge the County Council to:
Request the State to ensure the health and safety of our Island's residents by insisting that the
U.S. military cease all bombing and desecration activities at Pohakuloa Training Area.
• Reject any land swaps or lease extensions unless they include robust stipulations for cleanup,
restoration, and full cultural protection.
• Require that a Ka Pa'akai Analysis be conducted, ensuring respect for Native Hawaiian cultural
sites and traditional practices.
Pohakuloa is a wahi pana —a sacred and storied place that holds irreplaceable cultural and
environmentalvalue. For decades, it has suffered bombing, wildfires, and contamination, including
concerns about depleted uranium and other toxins. The State's rejection of the Army's inadequate
Environmental Impact Statement signals broad concern and opens a critical window for action.
By passing Resolution 234-25, Hawai'i County takes a leadership role for the entire state, inspiring other
counties to follow this path of true Aloha 'Aina and Kapu Aloha.
Mahalo nui loa for your leadership.
Respectfully,
Lynda Williams
Hilo
Comm. o �7
Ref. To:
Ref. Date 2202