HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0459.073 2024-2026From: Leilani Lindsey Kaapuni
Sent: Wednesday, August 27, 2025 5:15 AM
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To: Council Testimonycl
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Subject: Testimony in Support of Resolution No. 286-25
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To: The County Legislative Approval & Acquisition Committee (LAAC)
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From: Leilani Lindsey Ka'apuni
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Date: 28 August 2025
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Re: RESOLUTION NO: 286-25
Testimony in Strong Support of HI County Acquisition of Parcels 1-4-003:020 & 1-4-003:019 (Honolulu
Ahupua'a, Puna)
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 Hawai`i's
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. Protectingthe ahupua'a of
Honolulu will ensure this wahi pana is preserved and cared for in perpetuity.
Mahalo nui for your dedication and for consideringthis urgent matter. I am available by phone (808) 345-
5891 orvia email: LKaapuni@gmail.com should you require additional information.
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Me ke aloha'aina,
Leilani Lindsey Ka'apuni
Hilo, Hawai'i