HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0258.016 1996-1998
FROPI IJaIPI'0 TREE HO~JSE FHJVE U7. E~'o 77. 7160 FEl ~
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All Open letter t0 l.0utlCllman UOI[llluc a abun~ s~i + C`JU'I V I v i u w v
Prom: Mark Singleton, Waipio valley
775-7160
Dear Councilman Yagatg:
We know now that rautforests arc both commercially and eulturall}' important. The
value of the Hamakua coast as true living art can far outweigh its former value as
plantation laird. To view the Big Island as vast wasteland waiting for low-yield
bulk-pulp monoculture tree farming is just not intellgent apiculture. Rather, it's a
poor excuse brought about by previous bad planning
Protests to stop this move will be successful thanks to an informed public in the
affected area.
Yes, we've all been waiting to sec what tlc bureaucrnts could dream up. Yes, we've
been 1ary and complacent, maybe still even shinned by the loss of sugar cane u~d
the paltry efforts to replace it.
But now that we're backed up against this wail, bad use of the surrounding lands
will hurt us all.
This is what Iexpected- small farms, enlightened industry, nahlral attractions
developed for popular use by our families, interested visitors, students of our natural
sciences, and tree-hugging eco-tourists, Instead, I'm embarrassed by the ignorance
of our elected leaders.
Something must be done.
It scans obvious that ono overlooked value Jere is the talented residents who have
been brought to or attracted by this amazing plac<s. wlty shouldn't they too lave
some of the perks enjoyed previously by the plantations? lt's an insult to dunk that
we can't support ourselves legally. The petty ot?stY-uctions of Hilo bureaucrats are
absurd.
Hcrc's one plan, used effectively for years ~ Sa,.ioa:
Start a contest to detenninc the community attTaaing the most payuig tisitovs
Coma Dia~u •
Ref. To: JUL 2 2
FRO'1 lJR[PI'0 TREc H003E Fl-p~l= i.~~.. 2.33 775 71eP P9~
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Get local business to contribute a cash prize. Itwite world-famous people as judges.
Intercede with Ute platuung department and others so that nitpickers won't prevent
the free flow of innovation. iJse County equipment and services particrdar to each
community.
Have Fire and Police departrnent personnel involved in the process; they'll have a
chance for vindication from local scandals. ~Jc will then have infi~ashucture and
access to a waiting market.
MtuttJand tourists are extremely interested in ho~v we live. As you know, this kind
of interactive travel is the fastest growing selunent of the visitor industry.
As in Samoa, people will pay to use switnnxing holes, trails and fishing beaches.
They will paV for local guides or for written instnzction on otv local etiquette and
lore.
What I'm trying to say here is that we need, we must, get the local people involved
to a larger degree than by tree farmnig. This utvolvement will pay off economically.
Having a vested interest in the outcome makes people more productive.
Hamakua's population is unique. So is the culhrrc. People want to experience it.
Help them!
Help us!
with a)ot:r~,
Mark singleton