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NOTES FOR COUNTY COUNCIL 8-4-04 re. BILL 178 CLIFTO'S O'OMA PROJECT <br /> Cory Harden, Box 10265, Hilo, 96721 968-8965 mh@interpac.net <br /> It is commendable that there has been some response to concerns about Clifto's. The bill was <br /> deferred to allow at least some time for the Mayor to work on a concurrency policy, so <br /> infrastructure goes in before or during development. The amount of on-site housing has been <br /> increased, and the number of hotel rooms decreased. A public recreation easement, water <br /> quality monitoring program, and storm drain program to mitigate pollution have been added. <br /> Clifto's is willing to contribute up to $750,000 for plans to widen the highway. <br /> But serious concerns remain. <br /> Foremost is the fact that hundreds of citizens have said loud and clear they don't want this <br /> project, because of concerns about traffic, urban sprawl, and nearby open spaces. <br /> Also this is the fourth time Clifto's has been on the agenda in Hilo, instead of in Kona, where the <br /> people affected live. <br /> The Council and public haven't had time to study the Mayor's concurrency policy in the depth it <br /> requires. <br /> And the police department recommends waiting until a plan for infrastructure is in place, with <br /> funding and timelines. <br /> I also want to note that several Council members have received contributions from Cliff Morris, <br /> managing partner for Clifto's, and Sidney Fuke, the planning consultant who represents Clifto's. <br /> Mr. Arakaki, from Cliff Morris you received $250 in 2004. <br /> Mr. Safarik, from Cliff Morris you received $250 in 2003, and $500 in 2002. From Sydney Fuke <br /> you received $200 in 2003, and $600 in 2002. <br /> Mr. Chung, from Sydney Fuke you received $525 in 2000. <br /> Mr. Elarionoff, from Sidney Fuke you received $100 in 2002, and $200 in 2001. <br /> Also, several Council members received thousands of dollars from developers and real estate <br /> companies. <br /> I am not saying these contributions influence your vote. I am saying that citizens have a right to <br /> expect that there will no influence, and that you will act in the best interest of our people and our <br /> island. <br /> RE4E~VLi <br /> _~1~ <br /> --...._..g..f~ Co;?_------ <br /> <br /> ~~~.~C'.ounty C~ <br /> Comm. No. f7~.~~ <br /> Ref. To; Pre <br /> Ref. Uate <br /> <br />