HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0459.053 2024-2026To: County Legislative Approval & Acquisition Committee (LAAC)
From: Cindy Fujimura
Date: 08/28/25
Re: RESOLUTION NO: 286-25
Testimony in Strong Support of HI County Acquisition of Parcels 1-4-003:020 & 1-4-003:01!
(Honolulu Ahupua'a, Puna) (:�4
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Aloha Council Chair and LAAC Committee Members,
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Every generation deserves to connect to the past. _
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As stewards of the present, we must be protectors of the future for the benefit of alf. c?
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I submit this testimony in strong support of the County's acquisition of parcels 1-4-003:0215 and-
1-4-003:019 through the PONC program OR LAAC/Mayoral Approval. Together, these parcels
comprise the entire ahupua'a of Honolulu in Puna —a wahi pana of profound cultural,
historical, and ecological significance.
Importantly, these parcels were approved for acquisition by PONC in 2007, yet there was no
follow through on purchase negotiations. Nearly two decades later, this oversight leaves
Honolulu vulnerable to further desecration and loss. The time to act is now.
• Cultural & Archaeological Importance: Parcel 140030200000 contains an extensive
traditional village complex with house sites, agricultural features, and numerous burials,
offering irreplaceable insight into the lifeways of our kupuna.
• Ocean Access & Subsistence Practice: Parcel 140030190000 provides critical
shoreline access that continues to sustain subsistence fishing practices for the Puna
district.
• Alignment with PONC Mission: This acquisition fulfills PONC's mandate to protect
HawaiTs unique cultural and natural resources, while also creating opportunities for
cultural practice, education, and community -based stewardship.
I respectfully urge Mayor Alameda, the Council, LAAC, and the PONC Commission to reaffirm
and complete the purchase acquisition that was already approved in 2007. Protecting the
ahupua'a of Honolulu will ensure this wahi pana is preserved and cared for in perpetuity.
Mahalo nui for your dedication and for considering this urgent matter. I am available at my
email address should you require additional information or personal testimony.
Sincerely and with kindest regards,
Cindy Fujimura, Waiakahi'ula,Hawaiian Shores, Pahoa, HI
Comm. 4N.
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