HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0459.182 2024-2026From: Lahi Verschuur
Sent: Tuesday, September 16; 2025 9:07 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Testimony for Sep 17 County Council Meeting: Resolution 286-25, in favor
Dear Chair and members of the Hawaii County Council,
I have lived on Moku o Keawe for almost 20 years and my heart goes out to the lineal descendants and
kanaka with ties to this piece of land in particular, and all of Hawaii Nei in general, who have seen their
land taken, sold, commercialized, militarized, developed, even divided and put into legal battles by their
own family members seeking money over land stewardship/legacy. Any chance we get to preserve
natural resources here and leave the land undisturbed by these modern forces, we should seize them.
I am in strong support of this resolution to have Hawaii County/PONC acquire the entire ahupua'a of
Honolulu for the benefit of kanaka and all residents of Hawaii Island, (as well as native plants and birds
Like pueo and'io). It is time to stop the land grab that began with the take-over and erasure of
Waiakahi'ula into "Hawaiian Beaches" and "Hawaiian Shores" with all of the inappropriate Mainland
architecture and walls that permanently change the landscape and takeaway ocean access.
PONC approved this acquisition many years ago, therefore the Director of Finance should prioritize
budgeting its purchase now.
I see so many locals enjoying the close proximity and beautiful views of the kai at Honolulu Landing. I
see many people walking dogs and enjoying the road there with relatively little traffic. This needs to be
preserved. NO MORE DEVELOPMENT. Save the view planes and cultural treasures of this undisturbed
'aina. n �,
n CD
Mahalo, �c
Lahilahi Verschuur _ <
12-7002 Kaiheenalu St.
Pahoa,HI96778 g r—
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Ref. To:
Ref. Date E 1 2025