HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0620.033 2002-2004 ~ r S
KOI lA-KOIIALA 75-5737 Kuakini Hwy., Suite 208
CIIAMQER Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
O~ COMMERCE Phone:808-329-7758 Fax:808-329-8564
www.kona-kohala.com info@kona-kohala.com
May 13, 2004
Councilman Gary Safarik s
25 Aupuni Street _
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Hilo, HI 96720 =
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Re: Hawaii Island Land Protection Fund
Dear Councilman Safarik, -
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Aloha! The Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce strongly supports Bill 270,-=
which sets aside a percentage of property tax revenue each year to establish a
County fund that buys land and protects land for public use. The Kona-Kohala
Chamber of Commerce would like to see the Council amend the bill to contribute
2% of annual property tax revenue before placing it on the ballot for voters in
November. Bill 270 is a win-win situation for all, in that it supports private
property owners who are paid full market value for their property and gives the
County a means of protecting important lands for public use. Land protection
funds have been successfully implemented in Maui and Kauai where 73% of
voters endorsed similar character amendments.
We are asking for your support in helping pass Bill 270 and successfully place
this measure on the ballot in November. A recent poll released by the Trust for
Public Land shows 70% of Hawaii County voters are in favor of this permanent,
dedicated fund. Bill 270 simply allows the people to decide to create a fund to
protect our most important lands for public use.
The Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce applauds the Council for finding and
supporting this innovative idea of establishing a land protection fund. We would
like to assure protection of properties such as Keakealaniwahine, Makalawena
and others that focal residents feel tied to and also contribute to our tourist
economy in West Hawaii. Bill 270 is good for the economy and the environment
and it will improve the quality of life for local residents. Mahalo for your support.
The Council's positive vote on Bill 270 will be a great gift for generations to come.
S cer ly,
Eric ov
n Platen Luder, President
Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce
cc: Mayor Harry Kim
Comm. tJo. 6~~-
Ref. To: Prue
Ref. Date,...Mav ~ ~ Anne