HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0663.021 2002-2004 ~ppy JUL 23 f1~1 8 39
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July 29, 2001
Aloha Mayor Kim:
I'm sure you are awaze of the controversy in our community concerning the development
of the former AMFAC property in Pahoa which is now owned by Theodora Malleck.
Our organization, Mainstreet Pahoa worked for a period often yeazs to acquire the 4
acres adjoining the Akebono Theatre. The State of Hawaii agreed to exchange state land
of compazable value, but AMFAC refused. Our organization received a community
block grant through HUD, but the former mayor refused to release the funds. Former
Senator Andy Levin included acquisition funds in his CIP for the Puna District, but once
again, the funds were not released.
We received a grant from DBET to complete a business plan for the property in 1997,
and employed Millie Kim to write our Pahoa Village Park Mazketing and Business Plan.
We are including a copy for your information. Key items include a covered bus stop for
the Hele On service, public restrooms, a police substation, farmers market, visitors
information center, and tour bus parking.
We know that you have met with Ms. Malleck. Is there a possibility that the county
would acquire this property in the center of town for development as a village park, as
detailed am our plan? It represents the heart of Pahoa, and we feel that development for
public use would provide an enormous benefit for the future of oar town.
We have invited Ms. Malleck to our meetings, but she has not attended. We feel that our
organization can facilitate cooperation and collaboration between the community,
landowner, and county government. Can you help us to arrange a meeting with the new
landowner so we can discuss the future of Pahoa?
Cc: Andy Levin Sincerely,
Gary Safarik
Helene Hale ANTHONY ALMADA, President
Russell Kokobun MAIN STREET PAHOA
Comm. No. 3 • L
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