HomeMy WebLinkAboutComm No 0035.56 - Testimony - CA-18 - PONC Maintenance fundAugust 5, 2019
Dear Charter Commission:
I am writing to you because I am very concerned about the future of Hawaii's lands and waters,
specifically the changes that the Charter Commission is considering making to the Public Access, Open
Space and Natural Resources Commission (PONC). The People of the County of Hawaii voted strongly
time after time in favor of setting up this land fund at 2% of the tax revenue from property taxes. The
implementation of this fund was an outstanding example of strategic thinking about the lands and
ocean that this island depends on, not only for growing food and fish, but also for conserving the forests
and wild places that attract millions of tourists each year. The PONC fund has been used to conserve so
many special places around the island. Conservation of Hawaii is not finished. In fact, now it is more
important than ever to have this fund available to protect the lands and waters because, once those
precious resources are gone, they are gone forever. In order to continue the conservation of the
protected lands, we also need the Maintenance Fund to ensure protection in perpetuity. The
Stewardship Fund could be expanded by YOU, the Charter Commission, to help the hard working
volunteers who care for our and your lands, by allowing them some small compensation for their many
hours of work. I know that the leaders of the various non -profits would take care to apply for funds
from the stewardship funds for only valid, important reasons that would benefit all of us. And of course,
the PONC representatives will also provide overview of the use of the funds.
Please, think of your children and their children. What kind of Hawaii do you want to leave to
them? That decision is in your hands. Please choose wisely.
Mahalo.
Janet Britt
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Janetbritt50@gmail.com
Comm. No. 35.56