HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0377.443 2024-2026From: Cristen Young
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2025 5:24 AM
To: Council Testimony
Cc: Kimball, Heather, Kagiwada, Jennifer, Onishi, Dennis; Kierkiewia, Ashley, Kanealii-
Kleinfelder, Matt; Hustace, James; Galimba, Michelle M.; Inaba, Holeka; Villeggs,
Rebecca o,C-)
Subject: Testimony in Strong Support of Resolution 234-25 c o
Aloha Chair Villages and members of the Policy Committee on Environmental and Natural Res oiyrce--In
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Management, �T
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Mahalo for the opportunity to testify in strong support of Resolution 234-25, which urges the state ta=
ensure the health and safety of Hawai'i Island residents by requesting that the military cease alf bombing
and desecration activities at Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA), reject land swaps and lease renewals
without strict stipulations, and conduct a full Ka Pa'akai Analysis of the area.
In May 2025, the state's Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) did not accept PTA's Final
Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS), citing incomplete archaeology inventory, lack of endangered
species data and analyses and an inadequate Cultural Impact Assessment, which is used to address Ka
Pa'akai factors. Sustained bombing and training activities have damaged pristine lands, the Saddle
Region aquifer system, and cultural sites for over 60 years. The resolution aligns with long-standing
community concerns that military activity continues to pose real threats to public health, cultural
integrity, and environmental stability.
This resolution is not about questioning the Army's contributions in regard to disaster response,
emergency services or providing a training venue for the county's first responders. Rather, it is about
establishing limits, demanding accountability, and ensuring oversight and respect by urging the
cessation of unwarranted bombing and live -fire training and the cleanup of PTA as required by their
Lease.
Approving Resolution 234-25 sends a powerful message that Hawai'i County stands with its people —
families, communities, cultural practitioners, and environmental stewards who have long raised
concerns about PTA's short- and long-term impacts.
It signals that Hawai'i County will no longer accept unilateral military decisions that compromise our
land, culture, and health without meaningful engagement, cleanup commitments, and legal compliance
with public trust obligations.
Mahalo for your time,
Cristen Young Comm. o
Ref. To:
Ref. Date AUG 1 9 2025