HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0459.054 2024-2026To: County Legislative Approval & Acquisition Committee (LAAC)
From: Ka'imi Galima-Elvena
Date: 27 August 2025
Re: RESOLUTION NO: 286-25
tr
N
O
Testimony in Strong Support of HI County Acquisition of Parcels 1-4-003:020 & 1-4-003:01%�_
(Honolulu Ahupua'a, Puna)
v
co
Aloha Council Chair and LAAC Committee Members,
"He ali'i ka aina, he kauwa ke kanaka."
The land is chief. and we are its servants.
I submit this testimony in strong support of the County's acquisition of parcels 1-4-003:020
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
kaimielvena@gmail.com should you require additional information or personal testimony.
Me ka ha'aha'a,
na Ka'imi Galima-Elvena o Waiakahi'ula, Puna, Hawai'i
com",* S 1• "4
Ref. To:
Ref. Date E — 2 2025