HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0459.156 2024-2026To: County Legislative Approval & Acquisition Committee (LAAC)
From: Robert Zehrer
Date: August 26, 2025 ti
Re: RESOLUTION NO: 286-25 �.
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Aloha Council Chair and LAAC Committee Members,
I live less than half a mile walk from Honolulu Landing. _
I'm submitting 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 Wpuna.
• 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
612-227-1351 or rjzehrer@yahoo.com should you require additional information or personal
testimony.
Me ka ha'aha'a,
Robert Zehrer
15-2700 Welea St
Pahoa, HI 96778
Comm. o
Ref. To:
Ref. Date 2
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