HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0927.039 2004-2006
Page 1 of 3
Bevanmarquez, Jean
From: Murashige, Laura
Sent: Wednesday, July 19, 2006 8:12 AM
To: Bevanmarquez, Jean
Subject: FW: Resolution 381-06
-----Original Message-----
From: Paul Dolnick [mailto:pauldolnickre@yahoo.com]
Sent: Monday, July 17, 2006 4:00 PM
To: counciltestimony@co.hawaii.hi.us
Subject: Resolution 381-06
The resolution to place a moratorium on rezoning applications in certain districts of the
island is well intentioned, but questionably appropriate.
I have read inaccurate testimony that states: "There is NO evidence from the many
mainland communities that have tried to stop growth with Moratoriums that
suggest they have had any of the desired impacts and they have generally led
only to housing shortages and price increases."
In fact, communities that have intelligently planned for growth, using moratoriums
to give them some time to finalize their plans, have prospered. Sebastapol in
California is an example of a community beset with a drying aquifer that has
resulted from the large growth of wineries in the area. Speak with their city
council and Mayor.
I have written Governor Lingle and Representative Takamine on several occasions
indicating that the problem that all communities face is local control for zoning and
construction permits and State control over funding for roadways and large
infrastructure. What is true about mainland style development is to "pave
paradise and put up a parking lot" and not address the infrastructure first.
If the County (Mayor Kim and the Council), and the State (Governor Lingle and the
State legislators) can cooperate in a manner never before attempted, and agree
upon the General Plan, then perhaps the island can enjoy an infrastructure
designed for the growth.
I grew up in a valley that was known for its orchards - cherries, apricots, peaches.
I saw what a propitious economy and lack of "quality of life" community planning
achieved when thousand of acres were cemented overnight. When freeway travel
of 1 mile took 10 minutes, or commutes became 3 hours, it was too late to
improve the community plan. It had been paved and built upon.
This island is precious. I believe that people move here because of this fact. I do
not believe that anyone enjoys overcrowding. Face the fact that we have a finite
amount of infrastructure to support a burgeoning growth. It is untenable a d
Comm. No.
1
7/19/2006 Ref. To. erra»'t'e vriN ~
Vzef. Uo`e =
Page 2 of 3
irresponsible to suggest that growth without constraints is bad for the economy.
I support the efforts of the Council. I however do not believe this resolution is any
answer. Lamentably, the issue is complex and there are no simple answers to
resolve overcrowding.
The purpose of this testimony is to support the Council in achieving its goal of
better managing growth on the island. I believe the resolution will have damaging
economic impacts in the short term, but if managed properly, may provide
everyone with a clearer sense of planned growth in the long term.
My view of this island is that much of its history since 1959 has been one of near
term goals and not long term goals. I hope this Council will seek to be farsighted
and not nearsighted. Let's ensure the island's future as a place to enjoy, not a
place to endure.
Paul Dolnick
Realtor (S) , MBA, GRI
Clark Realty
808-345-2703 Cell
888-272-4456 Toll Free Office
808-961-6015 Local Office
99 Aupuni St., #118
Hilo, HI 96720
7/19/2006