HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0377.470 2024-2026From: Cheryl B
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Sent: Monday, September 1, 2025 4:59 PM
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To: Council Testimony
Subject: Strong support of Resolution 234-25
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TESTIMONY IN STRONG SUPPORT OF RESOLUTION 234-25
Aloha Chair and City Council Members,
Mahalo for the opportunity to provide testimony in strong support of Resolution 234-25. We are writing
together to urge the State of Hawaii to act urgently and responsibly to protect the health, safety, and
cultural integrity of Hawai'i Island by addressing the ongoing harm caused by military activities at the
Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA).
For many years, communities on Hawai'i Island have carried the burden of toxic military operations at
PTA. The use of depleted uranium, white phosphorus, and other hazardous materials has left lasting
damage to the environment —contaminating our air, water, and soil. The failure of the State to monitor
these lands, as confirmed by the Hawai'i Supreme Court in Chingv. Case, is not only a legal breach but a
moral one as well.
The cultural significance of Pohakuloa cannot be overstated. For Native Hawaiians, this'aina is sacred.
Continued bombing and destruction of this wahi pana dishonors that legacy and violates constitutionally
protected rights. It is unacceptable that, despite clear legal requirements, a Ka Pa'akai analysis has
never been conducted. This is not just an oversight —it is a systemic failure to uphold Native Hawaiian
traditional and customary practices.
The wildfires —many of which have been caused or worsened by military training —have destroyed
thousands of acres of farmland, ranch land, and homesteads. Families have been displaced,
ecosystems disrupted, and livelihoods jeopardized. The pattern of destruction cannot continue under
the pretense of national defense.
Resolution 234-25 does not askfor the impossible. It calls for basic accountability and respect:
. Immediate cessation of bombing and desecration at PTA;
. No land swaps or lease renewals without full commitment to environmental remediation and
cultural restoration;
. Full compliance with the Ka Pa'akai framework, as mandated by Hawai'i law.
We askyou to support the 8-0 vote of the Hawaii Council Committee by votingfor this resolution. The city
council passingthis resolution sends a powerful message to the State and federal government: the
people of Hawaii will no longer stand bywhile pollution, cultural harm, and governmental neglect
continue on our lands.
We have a shared responsibility to protect sacred places, honor Native Hawaiian rights, &ensqhealthier future for generations to come. Comm.
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Mahalo for your time and for your commitment to the well-being of our island and its people.
D. Green
C. Burghardt
Nuuanu Oahu