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HomeMy WebLinkAboutRES 428 Draft 01 2024-2026COUNTY OF HAWAI`I RESOLUTION NO. STATE OF HAWAII 428 25 A RESOLUTION URGING THE DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION TO PRIORITIZE AND EXPEDITE THE RESTORATION OF ISAAC KEPO`OKALANI HALE BEACH PARK AT POHOIKI IN PUNA. WHEREAS, the 2018 Kilauea volcanic eruption partially inundated Isaac Kepo`okalani Hale Beach Park and buried the adjacent Pohoiki Boat Ramp in sand and volcanic debris, depriving the community of one of the few publicly accessible recreational areas in Lower Puna; and WHEREAS, prior to the eruption, the beach park served as an important gathering place for `ohana, cultural practices and workshops, fishing, surfing, camping, and other community activities; and WHEREAS, following the Department of Parks and Recreation's presentation of a proposed budget and conceptual park plan in October 2021, a County -community collaborative hui — Revitalize Puna Resilience Capacity Areas and Co -Chairs — raised concerns over preliminary proposals and insufficient engagement with lineal descendants and area `ohana, prompting a robust collaborative engagement process for the park's restoration and revitalization; and WHEREAS, after nearly a year of engagement — including meetings with Pohoiki area `ohana, in -person and virtual planning sessions with the broader Lower Puna community, and coordination with governmental partners — a revised park improvement plan was submitted to the Federal Emergency Management Agency in May 2022, with a subsequent implementation framework, Revitalize Pohoiki, unveiled in October 2022, a copy of which is attached hereto as "Exhibit A"; and WHEREAS, the Revitalize Pohoiki plan established guiding principles of lokahi (unity and oneness), `auamo kuleana (shared responsibility), and kiho`iho`i (restoration and return to wellness), key areas of restoration focus, and a detailed timeline to ground the entire process of planning, design, construction, and long-term stewardship; and WHEREAS, Isaac Kepo`okalani Hale Beach Park was initially scheduled to be restored by the end of 2023, a timeline that was subsequently delayed to December 2026; and WHEREAS, a community meeting was held in July 2024 to gather feedback on preliminary park restoration concepts to inform a Draft Environmental Assessment, which was provided to the Department of Parks and Recreation by a private planning consultant, The Limtiaco Consulting Group, in December 2024; and WHEREAS, the restoration timeline is now further postponed to December 2028, more than a decade since the eruption, and spanning three mayoral administrations; and WHEREAS, the continued delay raises serious concerns regarding the lack of urgency for a community that was directly impacted by lava inundation and continues to experience prolonged recovery, particularly with respect to restoring access to this wahi pana for `ohana, keiki, and kupuna; and WHEREAS, visitors are already frequenting Isaac Kepo`okalani Hale Beach Park, often venturing into hazardous, culturally sensitive, or privately owned areas due to the absence of restored facilities, infrastructure, and directional signage, thereby increasing safety risks and placing additional strain on the area; now, therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI`I that the Parks and Recreation Director is hereby urged to prioritize and expedite immediate review, comment, feedback, and finalization of the Draft Environmental Assessment so that the project may advance to the next phase of the planning and design without further delay. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Department of Parks and Recreation is urged to work in coordination with the Department of Finance and the Kilauea Eruption Recovery Division to finalize a project budget and identify appropriate funding sources, so that construction may commence expeditiously upon completion of final design, permitting, project competitive bidding, and contract award. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council encourages the pursuit of public, private, and philanthropic partnerships to support the long-term management, programming, stewardship, and sustainability of Isaac Kepo`okalani Hale Beach Park. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the County Clerk shall transmit a copy of this resolution to the Honorable C. Kimo Alameda, Mayor of the County of Hawaii; Clayton S. Houma, Parks and Recreation Director; Diane T. Nakagawa, Director of Finance; and Douglas Nam Le, Recovery Officer, Planning Department. Dated at Hawaii, this day of 20_ INTRODUCED BY: A*10�� — COUNCIL MEMBER, COUNTY OF HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL County ofHawai`i Hilo, Hawaii I hereby certify that the foregoing RESOLUTION was by the vote indicated to the right hereof adopted by the COUNCIL of the County of Hawaii on ATTEST: ROLL CALL VOTE AYES NOES ABS EX GALIMBA HUSTACE INABA KAGIWADA KANEALI `I-KLEINFELD ER KIERKIEWICZ KIMBALL ONISHI VILLEGAS Reference: C-662/GOEAC COUNTY CLERK CHAIRPERSON & PRESIDING OFFICER RESOLUTION NO. 428 25 Exhibit A ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The County of Hawai'i Kilauea Recovery Division, Council District 4 Office, and Department of Parks ff Recreation would like to acknowledge the countless hours of support, input, and volunteer time provided by the'ohana of the Pohoiki area, individual community members, local organizations, businesses, and interest groups committed to the recovery from the 2018 Kilauea eruption and the overall health of Puna. Resilience: The ability to respond, adapt to, and overcome. The people of Puna have long been resilient in adapting to and living alongside challenges presented by nature. This capacity to navigate difficult times and support one another has also been showcased in the immediate response to, ongoing recovery, and long-term healing from the 2018 Kilauea volcanic eruption. The 2018 eruption would ultimately cover approximately 8,448 acres of land, isolate nearly 3,983 acres, and displace roughly 3,000 residents. Infrastructure damaged by r1lauea was significant. Approximately 12.5 miles of public roads, 20 miles of private roads, and 14.5 miles of water lines were damaged, totaling $236 million in public infrastructure damage. A public charter school, Kua O Ka La, was completely destroyed. Treasured public spaces were lost during the eruption event. The Ahalanui Warm Ponds were completely inundated and Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park was partially covered. Popular surf spots accessed from this area, including Secrets, Bowls, and Shacks, were completely overrun by lava. The State's Pohoiki Boat Ramp, the third most productive across the islands, was covered in sand and debris, blocking ocean entry for local fishermen. Work by County and State departments is ongoing to restore infrastructure as well as park and recreational facilities, all of which are key to advancing Puna's recovery and fostering long-term resilience. Revitalize Pohoiki is a plan to restore Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park and steward the greater Pohoiki region. This plan has been developed by the County with guidance and mana'o from Pohoiki area 'ohana, Puna residents, and the community -at -large. This initiative presented an opportunity to invest in assets that bring residents together, while protecting natural resources and culturally significant areas so that future generations may experience this precious space. roRi,E OF CONTENTS 05 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Overview of the park planning process 07 LOCATION & SIGNIFICANCE The ahupua'a of Pohoiki 09 PLANNING PROCESS & TIMELINE Overview of community engagement and plan development 12 GUIDING PRINCIPLES & REVITALIZATION THEMES 'Ohana-driven insights that ground the process and set priorities 15 WHAT WE HEARD Summary of community engagement 24 PARK PLANS & IMPROVEMENTS Budget overview, park concept, and development timeline 30 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN Near, medium, and long-term actions and commitments 39 GLOSSARY & ACRONYMS 1XIE SUMMARY The County of Hawai'i Department of Parks & Recreation has been awarded approximately $4.9 million in disaster recovery assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and State of Hawai'i loans as a result of the inundation of Ahalanui Warm Ponds and damage to Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park stemming from the 2018 Kilauea volcanic eruption. To inform how these federal dollars would be used, and to plan for long-term stewardship of the Pohoiki area, the County initiated the Revitalize Pohoiki community planning effort. 'Ohana from Pohoiki were engaged first to establish priorities and principles to guide the process - from planning and design to implementation. Puna residents and the community - at -large were provided opportunities to share feedback and insights through a series of in - person and virtual convenings led by the County. This community planning effort informed the following allocation of disaster recovery assistance: Through Revitalize Pohoiki emerged stewardship strategies including community -based monitoring, community learning, and partnerships, as well as future investments beyond disaster recovery monies. Parks Ef Recreation has submitted park improvement concepts and equipment scopes to FEMA for its consideration and approval, based on what was learned throughout the Revitalize Pohoiki initiative. The final design and construction of Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park improvements will commence following environmental review, additional community engagement, and engineering considerations. For the future access to and stewardship of the Pohoiki area, the County is investing in the restoration of Pohoiki Road, including a new, alternate alignment to the historic Mango Road, and Highway 137 which were impacted by the 2018 eruption. In conjunction with this road access, the County is restoring water supply to Pohoiki with a six-inch main to provide water for recreational and boat use. This construction of roads and water systems is anticipated to begin in 2023 and continue through 2024. Significant public support exists for ocean access along Pohoiki's coastline. The County maintains Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park, while the State of Hawaii holds legal authority over the Pohoiki Boat Ramp as well as newly created land located makai of the shoreline that existed prior to the 2018 eruption event. The coastline created by the lava flow varies from steep cliffs to sand aggregate beaches, such as Pohoiki Bay that is currently filled with rock and sand. While this material is being eroded and altered by wave action and currents, planning for restoration of boating access is underway. The State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DNLR) Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBAR) has pursued federal funding to re- establish access to the boat ramp. The ongoing project (currently in the planning phase, led by The Limtiaco Consulting Group) aims to dredge sufficient material to create a boat access to/from the existing ramp area and provide bank stabilization to limit rock and debris from filling in the channel. As part of this planning process, potential safe swim areas are being reviewed. Funds to develop a safe swim area must be secured as it is beyond the scope of what FEMA will reimburse. The County, lawai'a, and Puna residents remain committed to working with the State to restore the boat ramp, pursue possible locations for safe swimming, and ensure access along the new coastline, as well as opportunities for stewardship, cultural practices, and public education as there is significant interest in seeing and experiencing this space following the eruption. The Revitalize Pohoiki plan is a guiding framework for restoration and preservation of Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park and the Pohoiki region and has been crafted in a way that invites contribution from all community stakeholders. n. LOCATION &SIGNIFICANCE The ahupua'a of Pohoiki is located in the district of Puna on the east side of Hawai'i Island. The ahupua'a system is a Hawaiian method of land subdivision and management, which considers traditional socioeconomic, geologic, and climatic factors. The ahupua'a generally consisted of land extending from the top of a mountain/volcano (mauka) to the shore (makai), typically following a boundary of stream drainage. This approach enabled a sustainable environment for the community to access essential natural resources. Pohoiki is a small 1,000-foot bay that was used as a whaling port and was always a fishing village. Old fishing practices include using canoes and opelu fishing to ensure W. there was always fish and that the fish were taken care of. Over time, use by commercial and recreational fishers increased due to smaller motorized boats being accommodated by the boat ramp. While small-scale traditional farms were maintained in the area, in the late 1880s and early 1990s, Pohoiki was home to cultivation and processing of coffee and guava, and cattle ranching. Pohoiki was also known for its recreational offerings including surfing and naturally occurring hot springs. The establishment of the Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park, done in honor of Isaac Hale who was a soldier killed in the Korean War, created space for the local community to come together. The inundation and impacts to roads, the boat ramp, and beach park have substantially inhibited the community's ability to access this coastal area. Those wishing to visit must travel long distances around the lava to reach access roads that were not impacted or have been sufficiently restored. Use of the park area is also hampered due to lack of potable water and restroom facilities. Furthermore, a public safety concern exists for those visiting the area due to a dangerous shoreline, long travel times should there be an emergency incident, and lack of cellular coverage to reach out for EMS assistance. 7 dr w F �� Vol� �w, f r Oil r�7h10 �"� ,ter . �.,,, ,.", � W� °� �, ;� •� a°' r �, ., .1 n 2 , •JIL 0 AllOF �d vliV . " Oil ol Al y i �;.s �11;_ ' "�-•.yet s- d ^u q „•. F u r4 ° sombINEW rw 7�0 r. PLANNING PROC'qS r-TIME1 INE Parks Er Recreation introduced its proposed budget and conceptual park plan during the October 2021 Revitalize Puna quarterly community activation. Residents expressed concern over preliminary proposals and insufficient opportunities for public input. The Revitalize Pohoiki planning effort was initiated to engage residents in a meaningful way and establish a shared vision for Pohoiki area restoration, preservation, and collaborative stewardship. The following is a high-level overview of public engagement and plan development: Dec- Jan 2021 Consult with'ohana and key stakeholders Consult with Resilience Capacity Areas Jan. 11 Revitalize Puna activation Jan -Feb 2022 In -person and virtual planning sessions March -April 2022 Review and analyze feedback Begin drafting Revitalize Pohoiki plan April 2022 Report findings backto'ohana Present findings at April 11 Revitalize Puna May 2022 * Submit park improvement plan to FEMA June - Aug 2022 t Development of implementation plan Sept 2022 'Ohana and key stakeholders review plan Design Revitalize Pohoiki plan Oct 2022 Publish final Revitalize Pohoiki plan Reveal plan at October activation E Revitalize Pohoiki was informed by initial meetings the County had with Pohoiki area 'ohana. Their mana'o served as the basis for establishing guiding values and themes that support restoration and revitalization. 'Ohana provided context for how this space is sustained, how it should be restored in this day and age, and how it can be better honored. An increase in cultural understanding and sensitivity was also shared, as reflected in 'ohana desire for continued involvement: incorporating an indigenous perspective within design and environmental review processes, addressing desecration of this space by individuals who do not behave respectfully, and genuine collaboration between community and government to implement the shared vision. To solicit community feedback, the County hosted two virtual meetings and four in -person outreach pop -ups at the Pahoa Skate Park Sunday Market, Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park, Hilo Coffee Mill, and Maku'u Farmers Market. Community members were provided an opportunity to weigh in on proposed park improvements and share insights via RevitalizePohoiki.Consider.it and through a park improvement mapping exercise. The County documented 198 community participants at its outreach pop -ups, including 32 maps provided with feedback for consideration, and 129 comments received. 1,068 inputs and 187 comments on 38 topics were provided via Consider.it. The County team engaged the 'ohana as well as Resilience Capacity Area (RCA) co-chairs regularly throughout the planning process, to share progress and engage in collective sensemaking around what was learned and how to proceed. 10 GUIEN OPRINCIPLES £t REVITALIiAtION THEMES I Guiding Principles and Revitalization Themes are based on engagements with Pohoiki area 'ohana. They are intended to ground the entire process - from planning and design to construction and stewardship - and provide focus around what is needed to protect and preserve'aina, support needs of community including fishing, surfing, and connecting, and sustain resources for future generations. Resounding public sentiments expressed the need for everyone utilizing this space to "leave it better than when you arrive," to "give back and not just take," and to intentionally "allow time for the'aina to rest" so that it may heal. 12 Principles that will guide our collective work include: Lokahi J� united as one, oneness. We listen to, learn from, and involve those who are to be impacted from our actions in order to make informed decisions that address the needs of that community. Because recovery is kakou (a we thing), we build relationships and collective capacity to generate trust and collaboration across all sectors. *x 'Auamo Kuleana to shoulder one's responsibility. We all have to do our part to ensure the safety and wellness of people and place. We do this by y protecting, preserving, and replenishing resources W through formal rules as well as community -based J events and protocols. IL Z KIho lho l FC �4# restoration, return to wellness. a 0 Restoration of people and place would help restore Z our greater community and 'aina. Restoration will be — done in alignment with shared values and in Q reverence to the area's history, while recognizing — that some practices will need to be adapted to the new landscape and changing times. 13 0 W 2 W Z 0 - Q N J a F- LU cc The following themes represent what is necessary to support revitalization: Honor Cultural Identities Sustain and protect the cultural identities and practices through management and awareness of natural resources. Appropriate Amenities Support family gatherings, pilina 'aina (connections and relationships to place), and provide further accessibility to the ocean. Address concerns related to the lack of necessary and critical infrastructure. Safety & Security These concerns and ideas serve to protect and respect residents of Pohoiki and their property. They also act to create a safe environment for all visitors to the area. Support & Partnerships Potential sources of funding and financial support, and examples of community/public partnerships for 'aina management and stewardship. 14 • 91 % Foster inclusion through accessibility for all • 87% Bathrooms and composting toilets • 79% Parking for disabled and kupuna near water • 78% Camping spots for keiki and'ohana • 65% Pavilion to enable large gatherings • 61 % Small pavilions with BBQ pits located near the water Community members added to this list, suggesting safe swim areas, accommodations for Puna Canoe Club, an additional boat ramp, and construction of warm ponds like Ahalanui. Honor Cultural Identities• 89°0 onor and respec o of i s roo s as a is ina vi aae • 87% Education through interpretive signage and immersive experiences • 84% Implement kanawai - protocols and practices that aloha/malama'aina • 83% Protect mature kamani trees • Return Pohoiki to wellness to maintain culturaVnatural integrity • 56% Give'aina time to rest so it has a chance to restore itself • 54% Create space for an indigenous mala • 52% Create space to increase local food production Community members offered one addition to this list, suggesting reef building through strategic placement of rock to support surfers and lawai'a. • ZY I 7o —3TTCr7awarer place to strategies to foster appropriate behavior • 90% Restore water to support restrooms, showering stations, boat washing area • 70% Create pathways and signage to stop trespassing onto Hale property • 64% Community -based security of Pohoiki • 62% Dedicated area for first responders • 59% Enforce park rules (open/close times, speeding, and lewd behavior) • 56% Clearly note boundaries and areas of jurisdiction (County, State, and private property) • 56% Support collaborative/community-led management of'aina • 19% Have 24-hour security • -15% Manage the number of people at Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park • -18% Clear/level sand to provide better sight line to ocean Community members suggested adding a bike path to this list. 77% Secure grants and philanthropic funds • 74% Leverage County grant programs • 68% Explore State funding opportunities • 64% Pursue additional Federal monies • 48% Leverage Geothermal Community Benefit Fund • 24% Park sponsorships • 15% Charge a park entry fee for non-residents Through a mapping exercise, participants could identify desired park improvements and preferred locations. Community members were able to highlight concerns, topics, or suggestions for Parks & Recreation consideration in the development of the final park concept. Public suggestions ranged substantially - boat parking, visitor center, retention of trees, police hub, hula, and canoe club activities were all identified. The image below provides a sample of public comments and suggestions received through the mapping exercise. 17 'AINA ALOHA / ALOHA,AINA ALOHA IS RECIPROCITY Significance of Pohoiki There is a recurring theme about the significance of this place and its importance to the people of Puna. The interdependence of caring for the'aina as well as accessing and sustaining resources frame ideas on how to approach stewardship of this place. "IF WE TAKE CARE OF 'AINA, 'AINA WILL TAKE CARE OF US." Aloha'Aina By giving'aina time to rest, we give Pohoiki a chance to restore itself. There is a desire to develop a deliberate and intentional program for periodic park closures. • It's the'aina that needs to come back - to be healed • Close the park from time to time, let the place restore itself and replenish • Practice aloha'aina • It's more about mea ho'okipa - gracious and authentic hospitality. 'Aina gives generously, we must safeguard its health and wellbeing. • Kamani trees are part of Pohoiki's history and cultural identity - we must care for and protect these trees and plant more for the future. 5 L� Protect Pohoiki Fisheries Honor and respect Pohoiki's historic roots as a fishing village and its economic contributions as one of the highest fish -producing boat ramps in the State. Perpetuate traditional and other sustainable fishing practices to limit overfishing and protect the area's abundant fishing grounds. • Ko'a (fishing shrines) still exist and are used by lawai'a • Must protect the ko'a and the practices of lawai'a, who have kuleana (responsibility) and 'ike (knowledge) • Restore kapu of species during spawning seasons - a restriction on fishing to ensure continuous supply. • Fishing: Prioritize access for subsistence fishing to perpetuate fishing practices Proper facilities are needed to support fishing once the boat ramp is accessible again: boat wash and water separation, boat parking, safe navigation. 19 KNOWLEDGE GROUNDS AND CONNECTS US TO POHOIKI Community Education Give keiki, residents, and visitors educational and interpretive opportunities and space to learn from the 'aina as well as the mo'olelo (stories) and history of the place. Having community and 'ohana (family) -based programs to educate residents and visitors about the history and significance of Pohoiki will help protect 'ohana's private property and respecting their space. Public awareness can also help to deter inappropriate and unwanted behavior, promote actions that are respectful to community and place, and enhance security in the area. Placemaking through signage and trails in the area can have a lasting and impactful presence. • Listen to and elevate mo'olelo from kupuna • Perpetuate the knowledge of kupuna • Kiho'iho'i: research and invite best practices to restore and return space to wellness • Work with families to develop appropriate signage regarding water safety, respectful use, etc. • Work with Hawai'i Tourism Authority to raise awareness among visitors • Tell historical story of the area, with emphasis on respect for'aina as Pohoiki is considered to be a wahi pana (sacred and storied place) • Keep people from trespassing on private property • Have culturally knowledgeable person/people live at park to secure and teach • Provide experiential learning of traditional and cultural practices • Partner with local and commercial tour operations to enhance visitor experience and care for the place 4« _Zi_11_77 A "THIS PLACE IS A SACRED SPECIAL PLACE - THIS IS NOT A PARK, IT'S MORE A WAHI PANA. THIS IS A STORIED PLACE. WHEN YOU COME HERE - YOU'RE LIKE HAUMANA (STUDENT), YOU [EXPERIENCE] MANA'O (WISDOM) AND 'IKE (KNOWLEDGE); YOU'RE HUMBLED." Partnerships The County of Hawai'i is one of six counties across the country selected for the NACo .reative Counties Placemaking Challenge. The opportunity will foster ideation and support implementation of arts- and culture -based Solutions for the Revitalize Pohoiki initiative. The cohort is a public -private partnership led ay Puna residents. 21 RE; PROVIDE I Infrastructure Restore and provide infrastructure facilities in service of recreation, education, community - based monitoring, and management, as well as boat access. The Department of Water Supply is coordinating with the Department of Public Works to restore water to Pohoiki along Pohoiki Road to service the park, boat ramp, and neighboring properties. Improvements to Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park that were discussed as part of in - person and online engagement include: • A pavilion similar to the one that was at Harry K. Brown Park for events and community education • Covered or shaded areas for gatherings near the water with BBQ pits to encourage family gatherings and community connection • Designated spaces for keiki and 'ohana to camp, "rewild" and enhance pilina (connection to place) • Places for keiki and kopuna to safely access the ocean for swimming • Explore alternative, environmentally conscious solutions for bathroom facilities closer to the water • Restore Highway 137 from Kalapana to Pohoiki - a project the Department of Public Works has committed to doing with federal disaster recovery monies. • Improve cell and radio communications • Identify and install traffic calming measures such as speed humps/tables to increase road safety • Explore opportunities for police and first responders to have a greater presence in the area • Restored boat access at the ramp should include water for boat washing and separation of runoff 22 Stewardship Access to the natural environment is essential to health and wellbeing. Parks are a public good as they are accessible to all, but maintenance costs present an ongoing budgetary challenge. Establish a viable funding model for Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park by generating adequate revenues and securing resources to support ongoing 'aina-based placemaking, management, and stewardship. Collaboration among community members, the County, and State is required to maintain facilities and natural environment, ensure public safety and enforcement, and support community education. FEMA disaster recovery monies can only be spent on physical park improvements. To support ongoing stewardship programs and place -based educational opportunities, financial resources through County and State grants, philanthropy, the Geothermal Community Benefits Fund, and private sources should be pursued and braided together. Revenue generating activities such as access fees for non-residents, park membership, and a portion of income from concessions and workshops have been identified; Parks & Recreation is piloting a park user fee program at Kahalu'u Beach Park in Kona, which could inform how we proceed with Pohoiki. Other models successfully administered in Hawaii include: • Ho'okena and Hapuna, Kona • Ha'ena, Kaua'i • Mo'omomi, Molokai • Kahana State Park, O'ahu 23 J:i• �• 31 a.• ♦iy. { Lti� f a 15AAC KEPOOKALANI HALE BEACH PARK \ E.. While the County of Hawaii is fortunate to have received approximately $4.9 million in disaster recovery assistance to restore recreational facilities lost during the eruption, the estimated financial loss was significantly larger (approximately $40 million). As a result, the County was forced to make difficult decisions on how and where the limited FEMA funding would be used. Recovery funding received for 'Ahalanui Beach Park was positioned to support restoration of Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park, given that 'Ahalanui was completely inundated by lava and its redevelopment would be financially impractical. Additionally, shoreline access and coastal recreation at 'Ahalanui Beach Park no longer exists. Rather, a new coastline has been created as a result of the eruption that is now under the jurisdiction of the State of Hawai'i. Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park Improvements The conceptual park improvement plan has evolved throughout the Revitalize Pohoiki initiative, with the Preferred Park Concept from May 2022 presented in this plan. This version has been used by Parks Er Recreation in the proposed scope of work submitted to FEMA, it is estimated to cost $3.1 million to implement. The final design and construction of Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park improvements may somewhat differ from the conceptual plans due to the subsequent environmental review process, further community engagement, and engineering considerations. The County considers these improvements to Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park, to be funded through FEMA disaster recovery funds, as just one phase of the park's revitalization. The County is committed to working in partnership with Pohoiki area'ohana, the Puna community, and stewardship groups to secure additional funding and assistance to implement the long-term vision contained within this plan, including, but not limited to educational opportunities, space for cultural practitioners, food production, placemaking and wayfinding, stewardship, as well as other more traditional park improvements. The County acknowledges that many efforts need not rely solely on government funding or leadership and welcomes those with interest and expertise to be part of plan implementation. � KK PROPOSED PARK CrNr-l=.PT 32'x80' Pavilion [$750,000] w/ walkway and grassed area Site Washing Facility of :..AN (Future, by State) Native Landscaping [$150,000J Community 16'x12' Hale Ku'ai "9'x40' Admin. Bld I' [$250,000] Security. WSO �� �` Office, Storage. ,�, 8' W. Accessible � and Picnic Tables on conc. pads Paved Parking N ��" l, [$400,000] Stalls and Access. Rte. �1" (5350,000] , 30'x60' Hale Wa'a ui [$75,OOl Restore ' �` ��" •" Electrical System [$250,000] r $ 750,000 Planning, Design, Permitting $2,358,000 Construction " $3,108,000 TOTAL Note: This plan is subject to prior restoration of municipal water service to park by COH-DWS for domestic water and fire protection requirements. • a n n rl in n Ism rym a b. M •) - - < ]2 7mk•1 CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT Two months June - July 2022 DESIGN Eight months August 2022 - March 2023 PERMITS Ten months December 2022 - September 2023 BIDDING Four months April - July 2023 PARK be.'VELOPMENT TENTATIVE TIMELINE Three months August - October 2023 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Twelve months August 2022 - July 2023 CONSTRUCTION Eight months November 2023 - July 2024 CLOSEOUT Four months August - November 2023 27 Equipment Purchases Parks & Recreation has identified approximately $1.76 million in federal disaster recovery funds for the purchase of equipment to ensure safety and proper maintenance of parks. This equipment will be used throughout the Puna region to assist with park maintenance needs. Equipment also will assist the department in responding to natural disasters and other emergencies. The following is a breakdown of equipment purchases under review by FEMA: 2 bucket trucks for tree trimming: • The current inventory has been reduced from 3 to 1 due to safety issues that could not be addressed through repairs. • The equipment is essential to address and prevent safety issues at parks and ensure proper, healthy growth of trees. Tracked skid steer to address safety concerns at ball fields: • A tracked skid steer is essential to the successful and efficient completion of numerous types of park improvement and maintenance projects island wide. • The County is currently renting this equipment. Rubbish truck for Puna parks: • The County currently does not have a rubbish truck to serve parks in Puna. 2 dump trucks: • These trucks are needed to ensure parks are adequately maintained. • The existing fleet of four dump trucks are constantly being taken out of commission for necessary, unscheduled repairs. 2 flatbed trucks with dump: • These trucks are needed to transport aggregate and building materials at County parks. 3 heavy-duty trailers to transport equipment: • Currently, the department has limited (in quantity and rating) trailers to efficiently mobilize its heavy equipment. NN 3 excavators: • The County currently rents this equipment. • The mid -size excavator with dozer blade is an important component of heavy equipment that is currently absent from the department's inventory. 1 backhoe • To replace an existing backhoe that is at the end of its life. 2 auto scrubbers for indoor courts: • As the County transitions from outdoor bare concrete and asphalt play surfaces to indoor courts with specialized athletic surfacing, the need to properly clean and maintain these large floor areas is dependent on auto scrubber equipment. These units would be strategically situated on the island so that they could be accessible to maintenance staff when needed in various districts. Other Puna Parks Improvements $100,000 has been slated to the Herbert Shipman Park for tennis courts resurfacing, whom residents from the volcanic impact area also use. 29 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN This Revitalize Pohoiki plan is meant to be a document to guide collaborative actions and ensure collective ownership among all stakeholders - residents, area 'ohana, schools, community -based organizations, local institutions, and government. Recognizing that not all strategies are everyone's kuleana, this plan has been crafted utilizing an assets -based approach where each stakeholder fully owns or plays a supporting role in implementation of various strategies. No one stakeholder or entity can - or should - be required to catalyze and sustain all aspects of plan implementation. THIS PLAN IS INCLUSIVE, ENCOURAGING PROACTIVE PARTICIPATION, AND LEANING ON THE IDEA THAT OUR COMMUNITY IS WHAT WE MAKE IT. Actualizing this plan will be accomplished in phases, with some strategies being completed within a few months while others may take a number of years. Ongoing coordination of plan implementation will be driven by the Cultural Resilience Capacity Area, with support from the Disaster Recovery Division and the Council District 4 Office, in partnership with the Parks Ef Recreation Department and other Revitalize Puna Resilience Capacity Areas. Cross - sector partnerships will be key to bringing the vision of this plan to life collaboratively, and from the ground -up. Additional partners include 'ohana of Pohoiki (Na Maka Haloa O Waipi'o, Pohaku Pelemaka, Ho'oulu Lahui, Men of PA'A), Puna Maka'ala, lawai'a, Puna schools, Kua'aina Ulu 'Auamo, and the State of Hawai'i Department of Land & Natural Resources. All must be willing to step up and work together. 30 Various governmental and non -governmental funding sources, including private entities, philanthropic organizations, and in -kind resources, will be pursued to implement the identified actions and commitments. Funding sources include, but are not limited to, the following: Federal • American Rescue Plan Act; Economic Development Administration; Federal Emergency Management Agency, Inflation Reduction Act, National Endowment for the Arts; National Endowment for the Humanities; United States Department of Agriculture State • Hawai'i Tourism Authority Destination Management Action Plans Funding and Visitor Industry Support; Office of Hawaiian Affairs; Hawaii State Legislature Grant -in -Aid; Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism Community -Based Economic Development Program; State Legislative Actions County • Innovation Grant, Kilauea Recovery Grant; Puna Strong Grant; PONC Stewardship Grant; County Council Grant -in -Aid; County Council Contingency Relief Funds; Geothermal Community Benefits Fund Private Philanthropy • Hawai'i Community Foundation; Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, Atherton Foundation; Hawaiian Electric Industries Charitable Foundation; First Hawaiian Bank Foundation; Bank of Hawai'i Foundation; Hawai'i People's Fund Revenue • Non-resident user fee; park memberships, concessions, workshops The following implementation plan outlines concrete and implementable goals and actions for the near- term (1-2 years), mid-term (3-5 years), and long-term (5+ years). The list of partners and funding resources identified are likely to expand as we move forward with this work. 31 •fft *Placemaking and interpretive signage: • Identify mo'olelo and kanawai to elevate • Create appropriate signage, art, and digital media • Develop digital media to support mo'olelo and kanawai • Construct and install physical signage and art -based solutions Collaborate on culture -based education programs for Pohoiki: • Identify what we want members of the public to know and when • Explore signage and digital media to support education • Partner with industry to ensure education is promoted to visitors • Call out what is kanawai/kapu • Coordinate and support hui of NPOs currently conducting culture - based education programs in Pohoiki. Several Hawaiian organizations representing families of the Pohoiki area have come together and additional partners should be sought. • Partner with hospitality industry and support tour operators, guides, and docents to connect visitors to education programs Develop and sustain stewardship programs for Pohoiki area: • Talk story with organizations stewarding Pohoiki • Identify and pilot possible stewardship experiences • Offer, scale up, and expand stewardship experiences • Continue and sustain ongoing stewardship practices and programs in the Pohoiki area, including building on the outcomes of the Honuaiakea** process that was conducted by Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation to support the Pohoiki 'Ghana NPOs that have stewarded the area for generations. • Continue and sustain efforts of Pohoiki 'Ghana NPOs to organize and conduct events that educate residents and visitors about cultural practices that protect and preserve wahi pana and natural resources of the area. * Hawaii County is one of six winners of the National Association of Counties (NACo) and Americans for the Arts (AFTA) 2022 Creative Counties Placemaking Challenge, funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. NACo and AFTA invited small- and medium-sized counties to assemble a team of county leaders, local artists, and community stakeholders to imagine how art can be used to solve local challenges. Puna's historic fishing village of Pohoiki lost its access to fishing and its main road as a result of the 2018 eruption. As the County works to restore the road, Hawai'i County will engage Pohoiki's community in creative placemaking to restore trust between residents and local government while creating works of art that will reflect the island's history and instill respect for its people and resources among visiting tourists. ** The Honuaiakea process demonstrates the importance and value of the community and County working together to identify how best to apply an indigenous place -based approach to effectively managing areas that are heavily visited by residents and visitors. It establishes a foundation of substantive Ike Kupuna (ancestral knowledge) through'oli, mele, hula, and ka'ao to help communities and practitioners understand their environment and collaboratively identify kapu (natural laws to hold sacred/follow) and kanawai (prohibitions/guidelines to preserve the kapu set forth). This provides a structure through which the County and communities continue an ongoing process of learning that can guide actions and decisions to protect and preserve coastline wahi pana from Lehia to Pohoiki. Actions & Commitments • Medium -Term (3-5 years) Actions & Commitments • Long -Term (5+ years) 33 _1JJ:{61J: Build pavilions, hale, BBQ pits, accessible paths, and parking, camping areas and other facilities at Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park: • Submit project scope and budget to FEMA • Complete community engagement and environmental review • Solicit bids and proposals for work • Construct facilities and recreation areas Restore water to Pohoiki area, including_park and boat ramp facilities: • DWS submit project scope and budget to FEMA • Complete environmental assessment process • Coordinate construction with Public Works and Parks fr Recreation • Construct water infrastructure Continue to elevate to the State the need for a community safe swimming area along with a safe boat access: • Request DLNR boat ramp restoration engineering includes recommendations for safe swim areas • Use State funds for Safe Swim Study to design safe swim area • Convene conversations about establishing protocol and community education for accessing safe swim areas Restore access for boats at ramp and supporting facilities (e.g„ boat wash and water separation): • State DLNR has identified a suite of alternatives to achieving goal of boat ramp restoration including dredging some material, dredging, and installing jetties, and dredging all material created during the eruption • Once project alternative identified, DLNR to produce scoping, and coordinate funding, environmental review, design, bidding, and construction Evaluate plans for future build -out of facilities, such as trails, bathrooms, parking, at Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park: • Community engagement and planning for future phases • Identify funding sources for future phases Explore development of commercial kitchen facilities and community amenities such as a certified imu: • Community engagement and planning for additional amenities • Understand feasibility of these amenities, including appropriate types, funding for projects, and operations and maintenance considerations 11 0 Restore 24-hour security to Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park: • Parks & Recreation to supply quote for security services • Council District 4 to secure approval from Planning Director to use Geothermal Community Benefits Fund • Council District 4 to introduce resolution directing funds for park security Restored security services began September 1, 2022 • Council adopted resolution by District 4 to direct funds forsecurity • Add element of "aloha ambassador" model beyond traditional security services, including preventing trespass on private property • Parks & Recreation to consider creating County "park ranger/ambassador" position Explore public safety facilities for the area, including road calming along Highway 137, emergency response facilities, cell, and radio service: • Convene a cross -sector working group to: • Discuss challenges • Identify and pilot solutions • Evaluate pilot actions and refine solutions for feasibility • Secure funding for full implementation Establish a Resilience Corps to promote and deliver Culture -Based Education and Community -Based Security_ • The Corps to be composed of residents who are compensated to function as guides and docents • Information to be provided to both residents and visitors, aiming to protect and preserve threatened cultural and natural resources and assets • Coordinate and support current efforts by Pohoiki 'Ghana NPOs to develop and implement a pilot Resilience Corps program at IKHBP Coordinate with private property owners, P&R and DLNR to post signage delineating -private and public property, including rules and time of access for public property. Explore models for appropriate revenue generation: • Identify costs to support maintenance of Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Park, stewardship programs for Pohoiki area, and educational or experiential programs to set annual operating budget • Review revenue models from other counties and pilot where there is interest to gather feedback that informs long-term solutions • Explore revenue models such as non-resident entrance fees, park memberships, concessions, workshops, and develop white paper with findings JlslRol f: ONAVBA■►\1=I■1V=110 Manage access to Pohoiki to allow time for the land to rest • Identify strategies grounded in kanawai • Review plans and successful programs that manage access, identify and pilot initiatives that could work for Pohoiki (such as Haena in Kauai) • Evaluate pilots as well as existing community -based stewardship models to inform long-term solutions Evaluate programs for fishery management at Pohoiki: • Work with State DLNR to evaluate programming and funding opportunities as well as the feasibility of these opportunities for Pohoiki • Examples include: Miloli'i CBSFA and Mo'omomi (Molokai) Gi OSSARY &A' RONYMS Ahupua'a: Land division usually extending from the uplands to the sea Ahupua'a System: A Hawaiian method of land subdivision and management, which considers traditional socioeconomic, geologic, and climatic factors 'Aina: The land, the earth 'Aina Aloha: Beloved land, deep love, and affection for the land Aloha: Love, sentiment, compassion Aloha'Aina: The act of caring for and tending to the land 'Auamo Kuleana: To shoulder one's responsibility DLNR: Department of Land and Natural Resources (State of Hawai'i) DOBOR: Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (State of Hawaii) FEMA: Federal Emergency Management Agency (U.S. Government) Hale: A house, building Haumana: Student 'Ike: Knowledge, to know, understand Imu: An underground oven Kakou: We (inclusive of three or more people), everyone within a conversation Kanawai Kapu: Sacred/prohibited laws/rules Kapu: Sacred, prohibited Keiki: Child, children Kiho'iho'i: Restoration, the act of returning to wellness Ko'a: Fishing shrines/grounds 39 Kuleana: Responsibility Kupuna: Plural of kupuna, elders Lawai'a: The act of fishing, fishermen Lokahi: Unity Makai: Toward the sea Malama: To care for Mana'o: Thoughts, ideas, opinions Mauka: Toward the mountain Mea Ho'okipa: Hosts of a place Mo'olelo: Story, tale, literature, legend NACo: National Association of Counties 'Ghana: Family/families 'Opae: Shrimp Pilina'Aina: Connection with the land PONC: Public Access, Open Space, Natural Resources Preservation Commission (County of Hawai'i) RCA: Resiliency Capacity Area (collaborative groups under the Revitalize Puna initiative) Wahi Pana: Legendary place Hawaiian Dictionary Revised and Enlarged Edition Mary Kawena Pukui Samuel H. Elbert 1986 ,E