HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0349.015 2006-2008 ~,wC~. ~'~.aT,ie ace.
P.O. Box 690
Na'alehu, HI 96772
808-929-8364
ruthmariebass(c~yahoo.com
May 1, 2007
Honorable Council Members, Stewards of the Aina,
I moved to Ka'u more than 25 years ago to raise my children in a peaceful, safe, rural
environment. Because of the many active stewards of the land, Ka'u is still that environment
today. Ka'u has experienced relatively slow growth compared to what has happened to Kona
since I first moved here. The results of unbridled growth, resembling a cancer of the aina, will
be quite evident when we leave this Council meeting today.
My children eventually moved to the mainland; for a higher education and vocational
training. But they are returning to live in Ka'u with employable skills and the ability to start
their own small businesses. My grandchildren will grow up there to savor the quality of life
rapidly disappearing from this island. We know that education is the key to self-sufficiency.
Let our education include the living classroom of Punalu'u, that the knowledge of the ancient
Hawaiians and their sustainable ahupuaha systems remain an integral part of our children's
consciousness. I support the County's purchase of Punalu'u as a bequest to future generations,
as a living classroom, as a sanctuary for the developing reefs, the monk seals and green sea
turtles. Let us preserve this most precious jewel in the heart of Ka'u. Please vote to help
purchase the land at Punalu'u.
Thankpyou,y~ ~ ~
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