HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0417.007 2014-2016Murashige, Laura
From: Ruth Aloua <ruthaloua@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, August 18, 2015 12:00 P
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Opposition to Res 249 15
Attachments: Aloua_Opposition to Res 249 15.pdf
P11COUI C&L
"The proper utilization of our intelligence and knowledge is to effect changes from within to develop a good
heart." --His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Comm: No.
Ref. TO:
Ref. Date A
TO: Hawai'i County Council
Counciltestimony(a_)co.hawaii.hi.us
RE: Amendments to Resolution No. 249 15
FROM: Ruth Aloua
74-5071 Kumakani Street
Kailua-Kona HI 96740
ruthaloua@gmail.com
Greetings Hawai'i County Council members,
I am writing in opposition to amendments proposed in Resolution No. 249 15 that would
amend sections of the County of Hawai'i General Plan. As a resident of Kailua-Kona, I
have several concerns about damages that could occur if this resolution is approved.
First, I have concerns regarding the level of decision-making authority that the Hawaii
County Planning Commission will have to regulate geothermal development. Decisions
regarding present and future land use should be informed by the voice, well-being, and
health of the people who rely on the waters, lands, airs, oceans, and elements that give
them life.
Secondly, the amendment supports the development of geothermal resources so long
as the impacts to people are "mitigated." This is problematic because the full affects of
geothermal activities are not fully understood, investigated, or addressed by the State of
Hawai'i, therefore, mitigation measure will be insufficient. There are a number of ongoing
and unaddressed issues pertaining to geothermal activities conducted in Puna. Though
affects to resources and humans may be mitigated, truly, the long-term consequences
that result from mitigation will have a negative affect on our families that will last for
generations. Mitigation measures and feasibility efforts should not be used to advance
initiatives that damage the life of the land or people.
Third, this amendment would allow for the development of geothermal resources that are
not part of the Geothermal Resource Permit. This amendment is problematic because
geothermal ventures would be allowed in urban areas zoned for residential use. These
lands that are identified for such use should remain as so. Furthermore, health studies
conducted by the State of Hawaii have shown that living in close proximity to
geothermal facilities has negative affects on residents. This amendment has the
potential to allow geothermal activities near residential areas.
Each of the issues mentioned will directly impact present and future citizens of Hawaii
County. Rather than pass this Resolution No. 249 15, 1 humbly ask that the
representatives deny the motion until the community members and leaders become
better educated about the types of benefits and threats of geothermal technologies.
Perhaps, there are other technologies or pathways that we can create to ensure and
enhance the health and well-being of our people and resources.
Thank -you for the opportunity to comment,
Ruth Aloua