HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0377.580 2024-2026From: L Osterer
Sent: Thursday, August 28, 2025 10:29 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Resolution 234-25 in support of protecting Pohakuloa
Aloha Council Members,
I strongly support this resolution. WhyP Pohakuloa should be protected as a place with deep cultural and
ecological significance. The destructive military use is incompatible with its conservation status and the
values of malama aina.
Ongoing live fire and bombing exercises raise serious concerns about contamination, safety, and long-
term damage to both land and water sources.
US Military training at Pohakuloa has already burnt nearly 20,0oo acres, contaminated the land, and
threatened endangered species. The aquifer beneath this are supplies fresh water to Hawaii Island and
cannot be protected when the area is bombed. Depleted uranium in the soil poses additional health risks
when it is disturbed.
Please support this resolution to protect the land, water, and people of Hawaii. It is a unique habitat for
native flora and fauna.
As reaffirmed by the Hawaii Supreme Court in Kahaulelio v. DLNR (2oig), the State has a proactive duty
to preserve and maintain trust lands. The Court found that the State breached its obligations by failing to
reasonably monitor, enforce, and ensure proper care of the lands at Pohakuloa.
Mahalo for listening,
L. Osterer, long-term voting Hawaii resident. o c
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Ref. To:
Ref. Date W-1