HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0898.005 2014-2016 PI red
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June 1, 2016
John and June Kaye
29-2298 Hanamalo Loop
Hakalau, Hawaii 96710
(808)769-4808
Members of
Hawaii Council
25 Apuni Street
Hilo,Hawaii 96720
Dear Members of the Hawaii Council:
In Support of Resolution No. 535 16: Authorizing the Director of Finance to
Enter Into Negotiations for the Acquisition of Tax Map Keys(3)2-9-002:079 and
(3)2-9-002:081
We live in Hakalau Plantation Village directly across the street from the Hakalau Point property
which is being considered for county acquisition by the Commissioners of the Hawaii County
Public Access Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission("PONC").
We write in enthusiastic support for county acquisition of Hakalau Point as a way to preserve
and honor the history, culture and way of life of those former residents and workers of the
Hakalau Sugar Plantation and its successors.
Given the significant historical and cultural importance of the property,we would like to see the
Hakalau Point preserved and maintained as a historic memorial park to honor and commemorate
those who toiled and lived on the plantation. We would advocate that the memorial park include
walking/bike paths, memorial benches,native plants and trees,historical signage, and
educational information and artwork about plantation life and the sugarcane industry. The
memorial park would also provide an opportunity for residents and visitors to Hawaii(as well as
descendants of those who worked and resided at the plantation)to provide financial support to
help maintain the park, including the benches, signs and plaques by way of donations and
contributions in memory of loved ones.
We respectfully request that you consider the following points:
1. Acquisition will enhance opportunities for public outdoor recreation and education,
including access to beaches and mountains
Hakalau Point is one of the few readily accessible scenic overlooks along the Hamakua
coast.There is a fishing spotduring established plantation times that is still in use,
although renovation and ongoing maintenance are needed. The old trolley path from the
Point to the Mill(the Bay) still exists and if maintained will encourage access to the
beach. UEfq 5.
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2. Acquisition will help preserve a historic and culturally important land site
Thousands of people worked for the Hakalau Plantation(and companies after
consolidation).These people and their families built our community and invigorated our
culture.Hakalau Point was the hub of this creation.By honoring this site,we are
honoring those who came before us and created the environment and spirit we enjoy
today.Preserving the Point helps us preserve the culture and provides the venue for
cultural and historic education.
3. Acquisition will help protect natural resources,including buffer zones
Acquisition by the County of Hawaii will preclude the development of housing along the
cliffs of Hakalau Point.The advantages include protecting the cliffs from collapse
resulting from construction.
4. Acquisition will help preserve forests,beaches,coastal areas,and agricultural lands
Acquisition by the County of Hawaii protects the scenic landscape of Hakalau Point.This
is a wonderful site for watching whales and dolphins,and enjoying the serenity of the
natural environment. These rare and beautiful cliffside parcels should be preserved for
all the people of Hawaii and not developed for private residential use,thereby denying
the public access forever.
Thank you for your consideration of this opportunity to improve public access, open space and
natural resource preservation.
Very truly yours,
John and June Kaye