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_ From: Cory Harden
To: ACT info warriors;Council Testimony ft�t f
Subject: comments--Mauna Kea Nov 19 FC Bill 115 1019 NOV�j 1 8 Al 10: 2
Date: Sunday,November 17,2019 9:25:47 PM
comments on Bill 115 re State funding for Maunakea police actions
Hawai'i County Council Finance Committee,
3:00 PM Tuesday, November 19, 2019, Kona Chambers
by Cory Harden 333coryOgmail.com
It was the food tables at the TMT contested case that said it all.
At one table, around lunchtime, somebody walked in with about a dozen plastic boxes, each holding a
pre-packed individual restaurant meal, and stacked them up, nice and shiny. Those who were entitled to
them walked up, each taking one for themselves.
On the other table, food of every variety and description was spread out on a colorful tablecloth, brought
by dozens of different people. Chili, salads, fresh fruit, breads,juices, on and on. People gathered around
to share food and chat quietly. Everyone and anyone was welcome to partake.
Guess which table was for TMT,supporters, and which was for the petitioners and friends.
The same dynamic is playing out again, up on the mountain.
One side is keeping their distance. They are counting on taxpayer-paid police (many of whom are
ambivalent about what they're doing)to somehow disperse hundreds of protectors. They are also
counting on paid staff to help conduct community events and write press releases to sway public opinion.
The other side is up close and personal, right there on the mountain, creating an amazing community.
They have upended their lives to defend their home, to undo over a hundred years of injustice, and to
reinvigorate the Hawaiian nation. Their actions have galvanized people at Sherwood Forest and Kahuku,
and people in huge gatherings on other islands.
Which side do you think is stronger and more committed?
TMT supporters cite the rule of law. But the chair of the Land Use Commission, speaking about the
observatories and infrastructure on Maunakea, "described a pattern of'incremental decision making,'with
the university seeking one conservation district permit after another without ever properly evaluating the
combined impact of all of the telescope projects on the summit area".The chair said ` I)think we have a
clear picture that if they had followed the proper process...we would not be where we are now.' " *
Where we are now,with TMT, is 10 million tax dollars for just four months of security, and no end in sight.
Government officials and community-leaders need to have some quiet talks with TMT officials and tell
them it's time for plan B.
* https://www.staradvertiser.com/2019/10/26/hawaii-newsAand-use-commission-rejects-mauna-kea-
petition/
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Ref. Date NOV 1 9 2019