HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0325.015 2016-2018 Murashige, Laura
From: Kehaulani Lum <myheavenlydew@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday,June 22, 2017 11:22 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Support for Bill 47
Attachments: Support for Bill 47, Hakalau Veterans Park.docx
Aloha, Attached is my testimony in support of Bill 47, which is being heard by the Committee on Public Works
&Parks Recreation today.
Mahalo nui loa, Kehaulani Lum
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June 22, 2017
Testimony Submitted by Ms. Kehaulani Lum
In Support of Bill 47
County Council
County of Hawai'i
Committee on Public Works &Parks and Recreation
Hawaii County Building
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, Hawai'i 96720
Via Email
Aloha Chair Ruggles,Vice Chair David and Members of the Committee on Public
Works &Parks and Recreation,
Mahalo nui loa for your kind consideration of Bill 47,An Ordinance Amending
Chapter 15,Article 9, of the Hawai'i County Code 1983 (2016 Edition,As Amended),
Relating to Farmers Markets. I am writing in strong support of this measure.
As a landowner in the ahupua'a of Wailea, immediately neighboring Hakalau, and a
longtime supporter of community sustainability, I know firsthand how vital this is to
the many residents who call Hakalau,Wailea, Hilo Pali Ku and Hamakua home.
By USDA definition, Hakalau can be considered a food desert, as its residents do not
enjoy access to supermarkets or grocery stores that sell healthy dietary choices, at
low or affordable prices, as in other neighborhoods. The closest supermarket is over
10 miles away(20 round trip), and,locally,there is a lack of supply of quality fresh
foods that are necessary for a healthy diet and long life.
A scheduled Farmers Market at Hakalau Veterans Park will fill a critical void,
especially, for people whose incomes are low and who are unable to travel regularly
to Hilo town,where the closest supermarket is located.
Moreover,this homegrown farmers market will nurture a profound sense of
connection,which supports the emotional well being and vibrancy of area residents,
farmers, families and friends.
Mahalo nui for your support of this extremely important measure.
Kehaulani Lum
Manager,Waiehu Land LLC
29-3811 Pu'eo'Ihi Road
Hakalau, Hawai'i 96710