HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0459.116 2024-2026To: County Legislative Approval & Acquisition Committee (LAAC)
From: Linda Kaleookalani Paik
Date: August 25, 2025
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) d
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Aloha Council Chair and LAAC Committee Members,
"He a0 ka 'aina, he kauwa ke kanaka." 01
The land is chief, and we are its servants. ZR
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I submit this testimony in strong support of the County's acquisition of parcels 14-
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003:020 and 1-4-003:019 through the PONC program OR LAAC/Mayoral Approvht.'
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
[your phone number] or [your email address] should you require additional information
or personal testimony.
Me ka ha'aha'a,
Linda Kaleookalani Paik
Residing on Oahu however born and raised in Waipunaula, Kona Hema
Aha Wahine, President
Comm.
Ref. To:
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Ref. Date MP - 2 2025