HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0377.473 2024-2026From:
Vikki Catellacci
Sent:
Thursday, August 28, 2025 9:14 PM
To:
Council Testimony
Subject:
SUPPORT RESOLUTION 234-25
Aloha Council Members,
I have lived and worked on Hawai'i island forthe past 42 years, and have participated in many gatherings
and meetings related to the protection of the Pohakuloa area of this island. I strongly support
Resolution 234-25, and urge you, as elected representatives for our communities, to support it as well. I
know I stand with many residents of this island in supporting Res. 234-25, to protect and preserve our
sacred lands.
The US military training at Pohakuloa has always been a concern, and I have watched over the years as
the military presence has increased, and caused serious harm to the land. Nearly 20,000 acres have
been burned, contaminating the land and threatening endangered species. Beneath this area lies a
major aquifer that supplies fresh water to Hawai'i island, and the military's track record shows they are
not equipped to protect it. There are also serious concerns about the depleted uranium left in the soil,
which can become airborne during military exercises, and has known health risks.
Pohakuloa is a wahi pana..... a sacred place, with deep cultural and ecological significance. Continued
military presence and usage is incompatible with it's conservation status and the values of Aloha'Aina.
Please support this resolution to protect the land, the water, and the people of Hawaii.
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Mahalo,
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Vikki L. Catellacci
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Paauilo, Hawai'i
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