HomeMy WebLinkAbout00_006Harry Kim
Mayor
CERTIFIED MAIL
7000 0600 0024 2904 6600
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
121 Waianuenue Avenue
Hilo, HI 96720
Dear Mr- Lim:
County of Hawaii
PLANNING COMMISSION
25 Aupuni Stree[ Room 109 • Hilo, Hawaii 967204252
(808) 961-8288 • Fax (808) 961-8742
Special Management Area Use Permit Application (SMA 00-17)
Request: Allow the Development of a 27 -Hole Golf Course, Driving Range,
Clubhouse and Related Improvements
Use Permit Application (USE 00-06) V
Request: Allow the Development of a 27 -Hole Golf Course, Driving Range,
Clubhouse and Related Improvements
Applicant: Kamehameha Investment Corporation
Tax Man Key: 7-8-5:1,6,27 28 37 38 39. 7-8-7.4 11.7-8-10.6 9 29 Por 30 & Por 50
The Planning Commission at its duly held public hearing on November 30, 2000, voted to
approve the above -referenced applications. Use Permit No. 183 and Special Management Area
Use Permit No. 413 are hereby issued for the development of a new 27 -hole golf course, driving
range, clubhouse, related maintenance support facilities, and associated improvements and
infrastructure. The project area is located within the Keauhou Major Resort Area, on the makai
side of Kuakini Highway and mauka of Kaluna Street and Kona Country Club golf course, and
extends to the Keauhou 2"d/Honalo ahupua`a boundary, Kahaluu and Keauhou, North Kona,
Hawaii.
Approval of these requests are based on the following:
Use Permit
Rule 7 (Use Permits) of the Planning Commission's Rules of Practice and
Procedure states that the Planning Commission may approve a use permit based on
certain criteria. Section 7-6, Criteria for Granting a Use Permit, states:
"The Commission may approve a use permit upon finding that:
/zf&z
DEC 2 6 200.
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 2
"(a) The granting of the proposed use shall be consistent with the general purpose of
the zoning district, the intent and purpose of the Zoning Code, and the County
General Plan;
"(b) The granting of the proposed use shall not be materially detrimental to the public
welfare nor cause substantial, adverse impact to the community's character or to
surrounding properties; and
"(c) The granting of the proposed use shall not unreasonably burden public agencies to
provide roads and streets, sewer, water, drainage, schools, police and fire
protection and other related infrastructure."
The granting of these requests will be consistent with the general purpose of the
zoned district, the intent and purpose of the Zoning Code and the County General Plan.
The establishment of a golf course, driving range, clubhouse, ground maintenance facility
and related improvements, on a project site located within the State Land Use
Agricultural and Urban Districts and zoned Agricultural -5 acre (A -5a) by the County, is a
permitted use through the Use Permit review process, provided that the Land Study
Bureau's Detailed Classification System classifies the project site as having a master
productivity rating of C, D or E. The Use Permit process provides an avenue to review
and analyze a proposed project on a case-by-case basis relative to infrastructure and
impacts on surrounding properties and existing uses as well as the goals and policies of
the General Plan. The intent and purpose of the Zoning Code is to promote health, safety,
morals or the general welfare of the community through regulations and restrictions
relative to the location and use of buildings, off-street parking, the percentage of lots that
may be occupied, the density of population and land for trade, industry, residence or other
purposes.
The General Plan Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide (LUPAG) Map designates
the subject area for Urban Expansion, which allows for a mix of high, medium and low
density urban uses, industrial and/or open designations in areas where new settlements
may be desirable, but where specific settlement patterns and mix of uses have not yet
been determined. The Land Study Bureau's Detailed Land Classification System
classifies soils within the project area having an overall master productivity rating for
agricultural use of "C", "D" and "E" or "Fair", "Poor" and "Very Poor", respectively.
Mindful of the type of service and opportunities the applicant will provide to the
residents of West Hawaii, the proposed project will compliment the following goals,
policies and standards of the Land Use Elements of the General Plan:
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 3
Land Use
Designate and allocate land areas in appropriate proportions and mix and in
keeping with the social, cultural, and physical environments of the County.
The county shall encourage the development and maintenance of communities
meeting the needs of its residents in balance with the physical and social
environment.
The proposed request would also complement the following goals and policies of
the Recreational, Environmental Quality, Natural Resources and Shorelines, and Natural
Beauty Elements of the General Plan.
Recreational
Provide a wide variety of recreational opportunities for the residents and visitors
of the County.
Maintain the natural beauty of recreation areas.
Provide a diversity of environments for active and passive pursuits.
Environmental Quality
Maintain, and if feasible, improve the existing environmental quality of the island.
Encourage the concept of recycling agricultural and municipal waste material.
The proposed use would also conform to the following:
Natural Resources and Shorelines
Protect and conserve the natural resources of the County of Hawaii from undue
exploitation, encroachment and damage.
Provide opportunities for the public to fulfill recreational, economic, and
educational needs without despoiling or endangering natural resources.
Protect and promote the prudent use of Hawaii's unique, fragile and significant
environmental and natural resources.
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 4
• Protect rare or endangered species and habitants native to Hawaii.
• Protect and effectively manage Hawaii's open space, watersheds, and natural
areas.
• Ensure that alterations to existing land forms and vegetation , except crops, and
construction of structures cause minimum adverse effect to water resources, and
scenic and recreational amenities and minimum danger of floods, landslides,
erosion, siltation, or failure in the event of earthquake.
• The County of Hawaii should require users of natural resources to conduct their
activities in a manner that avoids or minimizes adverse effects on the
environment.
• Encourage the use of native plants for screening and landscaping.
Natural Beau
Protect, preserve and enhance the quality of areas endowed with natural beauty,
including the quality of coastal scenic resources.
Protect scenic vistas and view planes from becoming obstructed.
The County shall consider structural setback from major thoroughfares and
highways and shall establish development and design guidelines to protect
important view planes.
The proposed use would also conform to the following goals and policies of the
Economic Element goals and policies of the General Plan,
Economic
Provide residents with opportunities to improve their quality of life.
Economic development and improvement shall be in balance with the physical
and social environments of the island of Hawaii.
The County of Hawaii shall strive for an economic climate which provides its
residents an opportunity for choice of occupation.
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 5
The County of Hawaii shall strive for diversification of its economy by
strengthening existing industries and attracting new endeavors.
The desired use will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare nor cause
substantial adverse impact to the community's character or surrounding properties. The
Keauhou area is identified as a Major Resort Area. The proposed project, if approved,
will allow the applicant to develop a golf course that can be integrated as part of its future
plans for development of this resort area. While the project site and its immediately
surrounding area consist of primarily undeveloped lands, the Keauhou area itself is a
mixture of resort, commercial, multiple family and single family residential
developments. Approval of the applicant's requests will allow them to provide a
recreational amenity that is typically found in major resort areas. Furthermore, a golf
course can be defined as another form of open space use, which will not severely detract
from its current undeveloped and open character. By letters dated November 29, 2000,
the applicant has entered into an agreement with homeowners within the adjacent Puuloa
Subdivision and along Ihilani Place to include, as a condition of this approval, various
requirements and restrictions upon the applicant and the proposed development that will
ensure that potential significant adverse impacts upon these neighboring landowners are
minimized.
An archaeological inventory survey of the project site was conducted by the
applicant and found a total of 67 sites. Of these sites, 55 will undergo data recovery and
the remaining 12 sites will be preserved. One of the sites to be preserved is the Holua
Slide located within TMK: 7-8-10: 30. Plans submitted with the application indicates
that the applicant will provide a 200 -foot wide preservation buffer between the edge of
the golf course fairway to the exterior perimeter of the Holua Slide. The Keauhou Trail
and West Hawaii railroad right-of-way will be preserved within the design of the golf
course. The State Department of Land and Natural Resources has approved of the
applicant's mitigation measures for the archaeological sites identified within the project
site. As a condition of this approval, the applicant will be required to prepare and secure
the Planning Director's approval of an archaeological preservation and data recovery plan
prior to commencing any land alteration activities.
In response to comments expressed by the State Land Use Commission, the
applicant noted the project site's distance of 1,300 feet from the Kahalu'u Shaft Portal
property and other existing wells within the project area. The project site is also 500 feet
from an existing well the applicant will utilize for irrigation purposes. The applicant
stated that they will consult with the Department of Land and Natural Resources -
Commission on Water Resource Management and the County Department of Water
Supply during the design phase of the golf course to ensure the continued protection of
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 6
these ground water sources. A condition will be included to effect this commitment by
the applicant.
The desired use will not unreasonably burden public agencies to provide roads
and streets, sewers, water, drainage, school improvements, police and fire protection, and
other related infrastructure. Water is and/or will be made available to the project site.
Potable water will be provided by the County. Irrigation water will be obtained from the
applicant's own private water source. Access to the golf course site from Kuakini
Highway will be along Kamehameha III Road and Kealii Road. Kaluna Road provides
access from Alii Drive. A private paved driveway will provide access from the Kealii
Road-Kaluna Road intersection to the proposed clubhouse facilities. Both Kealii and
Kaluna Roads are privately -maintained, 60 -foot wide roadways. As recommended by the
Department of Public Works, a traffic impact analysis report will be required for the
proposed project to assess traffic impacts at the Kaluna Street -Alii Drive and Kealii
Street-Kamehameha III Road intersections. All improvements recommended by the
study shall be provided by the applicant at no cost to the County.
Wastewater disposal will be accommodated by the Heeia Wastewater Treatment
Plant at Heeia Bay. Existing gravity lines along Kaluna Street will extend to the project
site. The proposed clubhouse facilities is expected to generate approximately 15,000
gallons of wastewater per day. The applicant anticipates that the existing capacity at the
Heeia Wastewater Treatment Plant is more than sufficient to accommodate the proposed
project.
Due to the location of the project site approximately 4,500 feet from the shoreline,
coastal flooding concerns are not an issue. However, as recommended by the Department
of Public Works, a detailed flood study of the project site will be required and drainage
system improvement meeting with the approval of the Department of Public Works must
be installed prior to commencing operations of the golf course.
Power and telephone services will be provided by Hawaii Electric Light Co., Inc.,
and GTE Hawaiian Telephone, respectively, from underground electrical and telephone
lines located along Kealii and Kaluna Roads.
It has been determined that any impacts generated from the proposed development
will not be substantial nor negatively impact upon the surrounding area nor upon existing
infrastructural systems.
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 7
Approval of this request is subject to the following conditions. Should any of the conditions not
be met or substantially complied with in a timely fashion, the Director may initiate procedures to
revoke this permit.
The applicant, its successor or assigns shall be responsible for complying with all
stated conditions of approval.
2. The applicant shall prepare a Traffic Impact Analysis Report (TIAR) for traffic
generated by the proposed golf course in a manner meeting with the approval of
the Department of Public Works, prior to the submittal of plans for Plan Approval
Review. All improvements recommended by the TIAR for the intersections of
Kealii Street-Kamehameha III Road and Kaluna Street -Alii Drive shall be
provided at no cost to the County, prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy for the golf clubhouse or the opening of the golf course, whichever
comes first.
Final Plan Approval for the proposed golf course, clubhouse, driving range,
ground maintenance facilities and related improvements shall be secured from the
Planning Director. Plans shall identify the proposed structures, vehicular traffic,
paved driveway access and parking stalls associated with the proposed use as well
as the following:
a) a minimum 200 -foot wide preservation buffer from Holua Slide;
b) a 200 -foot wide "as is" and undisturbed buffer measured horizontally from
the common property lines between the applicant's "Project" (also known
as the "Property") site and (1) the Puuloa Subdivision Lots, including any
Puuloa Road homeowners's property line that has a common property line
with the applicant's Project site, (2) the lots adjacent to Ihilani Place,
including TMK: (3) 7-8-17: 04, which have a common property line with
the applicant's Project site, which buffers preclude golf uses, residential
structures, or any structure or alteration of any kind;
C) underground construction of all utility lines;
d) prohibition of vehicular access to or from the golf course, residential and
any other makai Project lands through Puuloa Subdivision, Puuloa Road,
Puuiki Road, Puupele Road, TMK Parcel (3) 7-8-07: 07, or Ihilani Place;
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 8
e) exterior night lighting for the golf course and related uses shall be -
downlighted, shielded and comply with the applicable County of Hawaii
lighting ordinance;
f) prohibition of night lighting on the golf course for night golf,
g) prohibition of night lighting for evening operations of the driving range,
with the exception of ambient lighting from other uses;
h) prohibition of amplified sound for clubhouse or other facility functions
after 10:00 p.m.;
i) operation of maintenance vehicles shall be prohibited between the hours of
10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., with the exception of emergency repairs and
maintenance during golf tournaments;
j) location of the construction baseyard within the project area will be at a
site which will minimize, to the extent feasible, the impacts on
surrounding properties;
k) incorporation of the Keauhou Trail and West Hawaii Railroad right-of-
way into the design of the golf course, with the West Hawaii Railroad
right-of-way being preserved throughout the Project site as a public
pedestrian access pursuant to a managed access plan approved by the
applicant, the State Historic Preservation Division and the Planning
Department, in consultation with the Keauhou Cultural Advisory
Committee;
1) the applicant shall submit for approval by the Planning Department a Fire
Control Plan which shall include provisions for a "defensible area"
maintained by the Ihilani Place lot owners at the perimeter of the Ihilani
Place subdivision;
m) 50 -foot wide "as is" undisturbed area and/or constructed or landscaped
sound and "no access" barrier along the common property line between
the applicant's Project site and the makai edge of the Kuakini Highway
right-of-way for at least 1,000 feet to the north of the Ihilani Place
subdivision;
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 9
n) the Driving Range, Clubhouse and related Service Facilities shall be sited
no further to the north or east than as presently shown on Exhibit 2 to the
Application;
o) grubbing, grading and landscpaing plans for the proposed golf course shall
seek to minimize, to the extent feasible, the removal of natural cover and
the stand of ohia just northwest of Ihilani Place subdivision;
p) the applicant shall file with the Planning Department the current names,
telephone and pager numbers of at least two (2) contact persons who have
authority to order immediate corrective actions (including cesssation of
activity) should there be a problem during the project construction phases;
and
q) exterior night lighting for tennis courts within the Project site shall be
downlighted, shielded and comply with the applicable County of Hawaii
lighting ordinance.
4. The applicant shall consult with the State Department of Land and Natural
Resources -Commission on Water Resource Management and the County
Department of Water Supply regarding the provision of appropriate buffers from
the Kahaluu Shaft Portal property as well as other potable water wells within the
affected area to ensure the protection of these water sources. Approved buffers
shall be incorporated in plans submitted for Plan Approval Review.
A detailed drainage study shall be prepared by the applicant for review and
approval by the Department of Public Works prior to submittal of plans for Final
Plan Approval review for the golf course and/or clubhouse, whichever is
submitted first. A drainage system shall be installed meeting with the approval of
the Department of Public Works, prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy
for the golf clubhouse or opening of the golf course, whichever occurs first.
6. A Solid Waste Management Plan shall be prepared and submitted for approval to
the Department of Public Works prior to submitting plans for Final Plan
Approval. Approved recommendations and mitigation measures shall be
implemented in a manner meeting with the approval of the Department of Public
Works.
Wastewater generated by the proposed development shall be disposed of in a
manner meeting with the approval of the Department of Public Works.
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 10
8. Prior to construction, the applicant shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the
Planning Department that all proposed off-site construction material such as
topsoil or sand are being supplied from an approved quarry or recourse site.
During construction, best effort measures shall be taken to minimize the potential
of both fugitive dust and runoff sedimentation. Such best effort measures shall be
in compliance with construction industry standards and practices utilized during
construction projects of the State of Hawaii.
10. The use of pesticides and herbicides in conjunction with all phases of the golf
course operation shall conform with the applicable regulations of appropriate
governmental agencies.
11. An archaeological preservation and data recovery plan shall be prepared and
submitted for the review and approval of the Planning Director, in consultation
with the Department of Land and Natural Resources -Historic Preservation
Division, prior to submitting plans for Final Plan Approval or prior to any land
alteration activities. The Plan shall consist of three subplans: (1) an
archaeological data recovery plan for the sites to undergo data recovery, (2) a
detailed interim protection/preservation plan for the sites to undergo preservation
and (3) an interpretation plan which shall include buffer zones, signage and long-
range preservation concerns which may be submitted at a later date. Approved
mitigation measures shall be implemented prior to the issuance of any land
alteration permits for development within the project area.
12. That portion of the Keauhou Trail and West Hawaii Railroad right-of-way that
traverses through the project site shall be preserved in place and integrated within
the overall design of the golf course. A public access plan, which shall include
signage, shall be established and submitted for review and approval to the
Planning Director, in consultation with the Department of Land and Natural
Resources -Historic Preservation Division, prior to the issuance of any land
alteration permits for activities within the project area.
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 11
13. Should any unidentified sites or remains such as artifacts, shell, bone, or charcoal
deposits, human burials, rock or coral alignments, pavings or walls be
encountered, work in the immediate area shall cease and the Department of Land
and Natural Resources -Historic Preservation Division (DLNR-HPD) shall be
immediately notified. Subsequent work shall proceed upon an archaeological
clearance from the DLNR-HPD when it finds that sufficient mitigative measures
have been taken.
14. Comply with all other applicable laws, rules, regulations and requirements of
affected agencies for approval of the proposed development within the subject
property.
15. An annual progress report shall be submitted to the Planning Director prior to
each anniversary date of the approval of this Use Permit. This condition shall
remain in effect until all of the conditions of approval have been complied with
and the Director acknowledges that further reports are not required.
16. An initial extension of time for the performance of conditions within the permit
may be granted by the Planning Director upon the following circumstances:
(A) The non-performance is the result of conditions that could not have been
foreseen or are beyond the control of the applicant, successors or assigns,
and that are not the result of their fault or negligence.
(B) Granting of the time extension would not be contrary to the General Plan
or Zoning Code.
(C) Granting of the time extension would not be contrary to the original
reasons for the granting of the permit.
(D) the time extension granted shall be for a period not to exceed the period
originally granted for performance (i.e., a condition to be performed
within one year may be extended for up to one additional year).
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 12
Special Management Area Use Permit Application
The purpose of Chapter 205A, Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS), and Special
Management Area Rules and Regulations of the County of Hawaii, is to preserve, protect,
and where possible, to restore the natural resources of the coastal zone areas. Therefore,
special controls on development within an area along the shoreline are necessary to avoid
permanent loss of valuable resources and the foreclosure of management options.
The proposed development of a 27 -hole golf course, driving range, clubhouse and
other related facilities and improvements on the project site will not have any substantial
adverse environmental or ecological effect, except as such adverse effect is minimized to
the extent practicable and clearly outweighed by public health, safety, or compelling
public interest. Such adverse effect shall include, but not be limited to, the potential
cumulative impact of individual developments, each one of which taken in itself might
not have a substantial adverse effect and elimination of planning options.
The project site is located mauka of Alii Drive, approximately 4,500 feet from
the shoreline. The distance of the project site from the shoreline would preclude any
substantial adverse impacts the proposed development may have upon coastal
recreational and visual resources, public access to and along the shoreline, or upon the
coastal ecosystem. Wastewater generated by the proposed development will be
accommodated by the Heeia Wastewater Treatment Plant. Any potential runoff or
discharge which could reach ocean waters can be handled by on-site improvements
provided in accordance with existing County regulations. Likewise, any impacts from
soil erosion and runoff during site preparation and construction phases can be adequately
mitigated through compliance with existing County erosion and sedimentation control
regulations as well as standard construction practices. In response to comments
expressed by the State Land Use Commission, the applicant noted the project site's
distance of 1,300 feet from the Kahalu'u Shaft Portal property and other existing wells
within the project area. The project site is also 500 feet from an existing well the
applicant will utilize for irrigation purposes. The applicant stated that they will consult
with the Department of Land and Natural Resources -Commission on Water Resource
Management and the County Department of Water Supply during the design phase of the
golf course to ensure the continued protection of these ground water sources. A condition
will be included to effect this commitment by the applicant. With these precautionary
measures in place, the proposed development is not anticipated to have any substantial
adverse effects upon the coastal resources or environment.
f,.
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 13
The proposed development is consistent with the objectives and policies as -
provided by Chapter 205A, HRS, and Special Management Area guidelines contained in
Rule No. 9 of the Planning Commission Rules of Practice and Procedure. According to
the application, flora located within the project site consists of common species such as
nom, monkeypod, koa haole, Christmas berry, lantana and a variety of other types of
plants. None of the species identified within the affected area are officially listed as
endangered or threatened; nor are any of these species proposed or identified as a
candidate for such status.
According to the application, lowland urban birds and feral mammals are
anticipated to inhabit the project site. Mongoose, cats, mice and rats are the feral
mammals expected to inhabit the site. Migratory indigenous birds and exotic birds, such
as the Pacific Golden Plover, Japanese white -eye, zebra dove, house finch, ring -neck
pheasant are just some of the exotic bird species found. With the exception of the
Hawaiian Hoary Bat, the species that are likely to be found within the project site are not
rage or endangered. The Hawaiian Hoary Bat was not observed on the project site,
however, they have been observed offshore in the general Kona area a number of times.
An archaeological inventory survey of the project site was conducted by the
applicant and found a total of 67 sites. Of these sites, 55 will undergo data recovery and
the remaining 12 sites will be preserved. One of the sites to be preserved is the Holua
Slide located within TMK: 7-8-10: 30. Plans submitted with the application indicates
that the applicant will provide a 200 -foot wide preservation buffer between the edge of
the golf course fairway to the exterior perimeter of the Holua Slide. The Keauhou Trail
and West Hawaii railroad right-of-way will be preserved within the design of the golf
course. It is recommended that the applicant prepare a public access plan that outlines the
public use of the Keauhou Trail and the West Hawaii Railroad right-of-way. The State
Department of Land and Natural Resources has approved of the applicant's mitigation
measures for the archaeological sites identified within the project site. As a condition of
this approval, the applicant will be required to prepare and secure the Planning Director's
approval of an archaeological preservation and data recovery plan prior to commencing
any land alteration activities. Furthermore, should archaeological features be discovered
during construction, a condition of this approval requires the applicant to contact the
State Department of Land and Natural Resources and secure their clearance prior to
continuing with any development activities.
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 14
There are no air quality monitoring stations in the West Hawaii Region. The
existing noise generated in the area is coming from the noise from Alii Drive,
Kamehameha III Road and Kuakini Highway traffic. The principal source of short-term
air quality impacts will be associated with the construction of the proposed golf course
and related facilities. Given the limited nature of the improvements, no long term air and
noise quality impacts are anticipated.
The proposed development will not severely interfere with the coastal view plane.
The subject property is not located within an area recognized by the General Plan as an
example of natural beauty. The project site is situated below Kuakini Highway on lands
that maintain an average slope of 13 percent. The location of the project site below
Kuakini Highway, the relatively steep slope of the land, and the open space characteristic
typical of a golf course would combine to mitigate any substantial adverse impact to the
coastal viewplane from the Kuakini Highway. The location of the project site
approximately 4,500 feet from the shoreline would also preclude any visual impacts
along the shoreline. Therefore, the proposed development will not adversely impact any
coastal scenic or open space resources.
The project site is not situated within an area that may be impacted by coastal
flooding hazards due to its distance from the shoreline. The Department of Public Works
is recommending that a drainage study be prepared for the project site and a
recommended drainage system installed meeting with their approval. The preparation of
such as study has been made a condition of this approval.
The proposed development is consistent with the County General Plan and Zoning
Code. The proposed project does conform to the General Plan Land Use Pattern
Allocation Guide (LUPAG) Map, which designates this area for Urban Expansion.
Urban Expansion allows for a mix of high density, medium density, low density,
industrial and/or open designations in areas where new settlements may be desirable, but
where the specific settlement pattern and mix of uses have not yet been determined.
Within areas designated for development as resorts, portions of the resort area may be
included in the Urban Expansion Area. While not typical of urban types of use due to its
extensive, structured landscaping and minimal amount of structures, a golf course does
provide direct support of resort uses. Its proximity to resort areas is essential for it
provides a much desired recreational amenity for both tourists and residents alike.
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 15
By letters dated November 29, 2000, the applicant has entered into an agreement
with homeowners within the adjacent Puuloa Subdivision and along Ihilani Place to
include, as a condition of this approval, various requirements and restrictions upon the
applicant and the proposed development that will ensure that potential significant adverse
impacts upon these neighboring landowners are minimized.
Based on the above findings, it is determined that the proposed development will
not have any substantial adverse impacts on the surrounding area, nor will its approval be
contrary to the objectives and policies of Chapter 205A, HRS, relating to Coastal Zone
Management and Rule No. 9 of the Planning Commission relating to the Special
Management Area.
Approval of this request is subject to the following conditions. Should any of the conditions not
be met or substantially complied with in a timely fashion, the Director may initiate procedures to
revoke this permit.
The applicant, its successor or assigns shall be responsible for complying with all
stated conditions of approval.
2. Construction of the proposed development shall be completed within five (5)
years from the effective date of this permit.
3. Final Plan Approval for the proposed golf course, clubhouse, driving range,
ground maintenance facilities and related improvements shall be secured from the
Planning Director. Plans shall identify the proposed structures, vehicular traffic,
paved driveway access and parking stalls associated with the proposed use as well
as the following:
a) a minimum 200 -foot wide preservation buffer from Holua Slide;
b) a 200 -foot wide "as is" and undisturbed buffer measured horizontally from
the common property lines between the applicant's "Project" (also known
as the "Property") site and (1) the Puuloa Subdivision Lots, including any
Puuloa Road homeowners's property line that has a common property line
with the applicant's Project site, (2) the lots adjacent to Ihilani Place,
including TMK: (3) 7-8-17: 04, which have a common property line with
the applicant's Project site, which buffers preclude golf uses, residential
structures, or any structure or alteration of any kind;
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 16
C) underground construction of all utility lines;
d) prohibition of vehicular access to or from the golf course, residential and
any other makai Project lands through Puuloa Subdivision, Puuloa Road,
Puuiki Road, Puupele Road, TMK Parcel (3) 7-8-07: 07, or Ihilani Place;
e) exterior night lighting for the golf course and related uses shall be
downlighted, shielded and comply with the applicable County of Hawaii
lighting ordinance;
f) prohibition of night lighting on the golf course for night golf;
g) prohibition of night lighting for evening operations of the driving range,
with the exception of ambient lighting from other uses;
h) prohibition of amplified sound for clubhouse or other facility functions
after 10:00 p.m.;
i) operation of maintenance vehicles shall be prohibited between the hours of
10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., with the exception of emergency repairs and
maintenance during golf tournaments;
j) location of the construction baseyard within the project area will be at a
site which will minimize, to the extent feasible, the impacts on
surrounding properties;
k) incorporation of the Keauhou Trail and West Hawaii Railroad right-of-
way into the design of the golf course, with the West Hawaii Railroad
right-of-way being preserved throughout the Project site as a public
pedestrian access pursuant to a managed access plan approved by the
applicant, the State Historic Preservation Division and the Planning
Department, in consultation with the Keauhou Cultural Advisory
Committee;
1) the applicant shall submit for approval by the Planning Department a Fire
Control Plan which shall include provisions for a "defensible area"
maintained by the Ihilani Place lot owners at the perimeter of the Ihilani
Place subdivision;
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 17
m) 50 -foot wide "as is" undisturbed area and/or constructed or landscaped
sound and "no access" barrier along the common property line between
the applicant's Project site and the makai edge of the Kuakini Highway
right-of-way for at least 1,000 feet to the north of the Ihilani Place
subdivision;
n) the Driving Range, Clubhouse and related Service Facilities shall be sited
no further to the north or east than as presently shown on Exhibit 2 to the
Application;
o) grubbing, grading and landscpaing plans for the proposed golf course shall
seek to minimize, to the extent feasible, the removal of natural cover and
the stand of ohia just northwest of Ihilani Place subdivision;
P) the applicant shall file with the Planning Department the current names,
telephone and pager numbers of at least two (2) contact persons who have
authority to order immediate corrective actions (including cesssation of
activity) should there be a problem during the project construction phases;
and
q) exterior night lighting for tennis courts within the Project site shall be
downlighted, shielded and comply with the applicable County of Hawaii
lighting ordinance.
4. A detailed drainage study shall be prepared by the applicant for review and
approval by the Department of Public Works prior to submittal of plans for Final
Plan Approval review for the golf course and/or clubhouse, whichever is
submitted first. A drainage system shall be installed meeting with the approval of
the Department of Public Works, prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy
for the golf clubhouse or opening of the golf course, whichever occurs first.
5. The applicant shall consult with the State Department of Land and Natural
Resources -Commission on Water Resource Management and the County
Department of Water Supply regarding the provision of appropriate buffers from
the Kahaluu Shaft Portal property as well as other potable water wells within the
affected area to ensure the protection of these water sources. Approved buffers
shall be incorporated in plans submitted for Plan Approval Review.
6. A Solid Waste Management Plan shall be prepared and submitted for approval to
the Department of Public Works prior to submitting plans for Final Plan
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 18
Approval. Approved recommendations and mitigation measures shall be -
implemented in a manner meeting with the approval of the Department of Public
Works.
Wastewater generated by the proposed development shall be disposed of in a
manner meeting with the approval of the Department of Public Works.
8. Prior to construction, the applicant shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the
Planning Department that all proposed off-site construction material such as
topsoil or sand are being supplied from an approved quant' or recourse site.
9. During construction, best effort measures shall be taken to minimize the potential
of both fugitive dust and runoff sedimentation. Such best effort measures shall be
in compliance with construction industry standards and practices utilized during
construction projects of the State of Hawaii.
10. The use of pesticides and herbicides in conjunction with all phases of the golf
course operation shall conform with the applicable regulations of appropriate
governmental agencies.
11. An archaeological preservation and data recovery plan shall be prepared and
submitted for the review and approval of the Planning Director, in consultation
with the Department of Land and Natural Resources -Historic Preservation
Division, prior to submitting plans for Final Plan Approval or prior to any land
alteration activities. The Plan shall consist of three subplans: (1) an
archaeological data recovery plan for the sites to undergo data recovery, (2) a
detailed interim protection/preservation plan for the sites to undergo preservation
and (3) an interpretation plan which shall include buffer zones, signage and long-
range preservation concerns which may be submitted at a later date. Approved
mitigation measures shall be implemented prior to the issuance of any land
alteration permits for development within the project area.
12. That portion of the Keauhou Trail and West Hawaii Railroad right-of-way that
traverses through the project site shall be preserved in place and integrated within
the overall design of the golf course. A public access plan, which shall include
signage, shall be established and submitted for review and approval to the
Planning Director, in consultation with the Department of Land and Natural
Resources -Historic Preservation Division, prior to the issuance of any land
alteration permits for activities within the project area.
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 19
13. Should any unidentified sites or remains such as artifacts, shell, bone, or charcoal
deposits, human burials, rock or coral alignments, pavings or walls be
encountered, work in the immediate area shall cease and the Department of Land
and Natural Resources -Historic Preservation Division (DLNR-HPD) shall be
immediately notified. Subsequent work shall proceed upon an archaeological
clearance from the DLNR-HPD when it finds that sufficient mitigative measures
have been taken.
14. Comply with all other applicable laws, rules, regulations and requirements of
affected agencies for approval of the proposed development within the subject
property.
15. An annual progress report shall be submitted to the Planning Director prior to
each anniversary date of the approval of this Use Permit. This condition shall
remain in effect until all of the conditions of approval have been complied with
and the Director acknowledges that further reports are not required.
16. An initial extension of time for the performance of conditions within the permit
may be granted by the Planning Director upon the following circumstances:
(A) The non-performance is the result of conditions that could not have been
foreseen or are beyond the control of the applicant, successors or assigns,
and that are not the result of their fault or negligence.
(B) Granting of the time extension would not be contrary to the General Plan
or Zoning Code.
(C) Granting of the time extension would not be contrary to the original
reasons for the granting of the permit.
(D) The time extension granted shall be for a period not to exceed the period
originally granted for performance (i.e., a condition to be performed
within one year may be extended for up to one additional year).
These approvals do not, however, sanction the specific plans submitted with the applications as
they may be subject to change given specific code and regulatory requirements of the affected
agencies.
Steven S. C. Lim, Esq.
Carlsmith Ball
Page 2 0
Should you have any questions, please contact Daryn Arai of the Planning Department West
Hawaii Office at 327-3510 or Alice Kawaha of the Planning Department Hilo Office at 961-8288.
Sincerely,
Richard B. Baker, Jr., Cha an
Planning Commission
Lkicuse00-0I 7sma00-006PC
cc: Department of Public Works
Department of Water Supply
County Real Property Tax Division - Kona
West Hawaii Office
Kazu Hayashida, Director/DOT-Highways, Honolulu
Office of Planning, CZM Program (w/Background)
Department of Land and Natural Resources
Mr. Norman Hayashi
Mr. Jeffrey Darrow
Plan Approval Section