COM 0042.046 2004-2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

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CLAUDIA WOODWARD-RICE P.O. Box 186. Honomu. HI 96728 M (808) 963-6123 phone/ 963-6889 fax email: ricesofhiCrDhilobav.com January 3, 2005 COUNTY OF HAWAII County Council- Planning Committee 25 Aupuni Street Hilo, HI 96720 Re: General Plan Dear Planning Committee Members: The General Plan includes a proposal for massive residential development in Honomu: B-4 Low Density Urban to Medium Density Urban 35 units per acre) Location: Honomu Village Rationale: The area could be developed as a possible retirement community and related commercial activities. As you can see from the attached map, the development of this 130 acre area at the proposed density would dramatically change the character of Honomu. The 20+ acres of this parcel alreadv zoned RS 7 5 could arovide a more than adequate expansion of our Village without destroying its viability Our existing business center is sufficient for our needs and the traditional center of Village life. There are also infrastructure problems that make Honomu a poor choice for residential expansion: • Unlike Papaikou and Pepeekeo, Honomu does not have a sewage treatment system. • Akaka Falls Road, bordering this parcel, cannot be widened beyond 2 lanes. • Honomu residents have restricted access to Highway 19: the one entry is already congested. • Construction mauka of the Mamalahoa Highway (Old Gov't Main Road) could increase drainage and flooding problems which already exist. The community is largely unaware of the change proposed by the General Plan. The only discussion held three years ago was about an assisted living center, not residential development. Honomu is a stable rural village with strong agricultural roots. Many residents work in diversified agriculture in the surrounding area. They want affordable housing for their children, not upscale suburban sprawl. Sincerely, Claudia Woodwa?d=R/ice Comm. No. Z Ref. To: reseal/ Ref. Uate