HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0459.082 2024-2026,
UNIVERSITY
of HAWAI`I®
MANOA
College of Social Sciences
Department of Anthropology
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To: County Legislative Approval & Acquisition Committee (LAAC)
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From: Patrick V. Kirch, Professor of Anthropology
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Date:8-25-2025
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Re: RESOLUTION NO: 286-25, Testimony in Support of HI County Acquisition of
ParcelsI-
003:020 & 1-4-003:019 (Honolulu Ahupua'a, Puna, Hawai'i Island) '
Aloha Council Chair and LAAC Committee Members:
I am submitting this testimony in my professional capacity as an archaeologist and
anthropologist who has made the study of Hawaiian archaeology my career for more than 50
years. I wish to submit this testimony in 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 constitute a wahi pana of great cultural, historical, and ecological significance.
Although I have not been able to personally examine the archaeological landscape of Honolulu,
I am aware of previous studies that have documented at least 32 archaeological sites on these
parcels. Among the sites reported to be present at Honolulu are several fishing ahu, at least two
heiau, numerous habitation platforms, rock walls, planting areas, trails, and one or more village
complexes. It seems very likely that some of the reported features contain burials with iwi
kupuna. Assuming that these reports are accurate, it appears that the Honolulu area preserves
a remarkable record of traditional Hawaiian life in the Puna region. In addition to these
archaeological sites, the Honolulu area provides critical shoreline access that continues to
sustain subsistence fishing practices for the Puna moku.
It is my understanding that these parcels were approved for acquisition by PONC in 2007, yet
there Was no follow through on purchase negotiations. Acquisition of these parcels now would
be in alignment with 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 therefore 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.
Me ka ha'aha'a,
Patrick V. Kirch, Professor of Anthropology I
*.q and Comm.iDistinguished Professor Emeritus, University of California, Berkeley Ref.To:
Ref.Da2020
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