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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAppendix C - Public Testimony Submitted by ApplicantAraujo, Jaclyn From: John Pipan <john@landplanninghawaii.com> COH PLANNING DEPT Sent: Wednesday, April 14, 2021 11:31 AM APR 14 2021 AM11.54 To: Kay, Christian; Jackson, Maija; Darrow, Jeff Cc: LPCtestimony RECD BY EMAIL Subject: Re: Recommendation Response and Alternative Attachments: Hickey Appendix C - Letters of Support.pdf Also, I would like to draw attention to the 52 letters of support provided as Appendix C in the application report as Jeff was surprised to not see any. The first two were forwarded again with the previous letter to distinguish them as owners/residents on Waiono Ranch Road. Best, John Pipan Planning Administrator Land Planning Hawaii LLC 194 Wiwoole St, Hilo, HI 96720 808)333-3391 LAND' S *- PLANNING .1 HAWAII LLC On Wed, 14 Apr 2021 10:05:45 -1000 John Pipan <john@landplanninghawaii.com> wrote ---- Aloha All, Based on my conversation with Jeff yesterday I have drafted an alternative, positive recommendation for the Planning Commission's consideration. It is not my intent to confuse Commissioners with conflicting Recommendations but it is my understanding that this happens from time to time. I hope these can get to the Planning Commission with enough time for their review. Best, John Pipan 1 141121 Planning Administrator Land Planning Hawaii LLC 194 Wiwoole St, Hilo, HI 96720 808)333-3391 LAND' '` PLANNING 01 HAWAII LLC 2 Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Kyle and Ka'iulani Thornton and we live on Waiono Ranch Rd on a neighboring property to Sunshower Farms. My address is 76-1334 Waiono Ranch Rd. Holualoa, HI 96725. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue. The proposition of a venue first sparked hesitation with the concern of heavier traffic flow due to our property being located above Sunshower Farms. After speaking with Kate Hickey on how they would manage the number of cars traveling on the community single lane, it became clear that she had thought out every possible detail to not interrupt current flow. Their cap on physical cars per event is very reasonable. In regards to noise, we have lived in places where the noise decibel is strictly enforced. For Sunshower Farms to have planned the details of the venue around the legal decibel levels, shows that they are thinking with a "community comes first" mindset. Hearing Kate speak of their dream and all the particulars they have put in place to deter any abrupt changes to the community shows how much they care for all residents. With any new plan comes the possibility of small pivots throughout the process and Kate has proven how malleable they are to work with the community if issues may arise. I (Ka'iulani) am a Native to Hawai'i. My family has operated a business here for close to 50 years. It brings me immense joy to see people come to our state to start a business with the Hawaiian culture and locals in mind. They are not only fueling our economy but are determined to bring other local business in on their plan, further extending the Aloha spirit and Hawai'i's growth. We support Sunshower Farms with their proposal and hope that the amount of planning, consideration and flexibility on their part, along with all the positives it'll bring to Hawai'i's economy, will be enough to grant them approval. Mahalo T< ,; n "` I ,Di Kyle and Ka'iulani Thornton Current Physical Address: 134 Paseo De La Concha Redondo Beach, CA split time between LA and HI) Email: kaiulanithornton@gmail.com Phone: (808) 937-4671 Exhibit C In20032 Beach Blvd E Huntington Beach, CA 92648 Pet Vet 9/15/2020 Aloha Leeward Planning Commission, My name is Allison Naito and I own the property that borders the Hickey's on the mauka side. I have owned the property since 2017. I support the Hickey's special use permit for a wedding venue on their property. It is very hard for farmers to make enough money on farming alone. I use my property for cattle ranching and coffee farming, and I understand how challenging it can be to simply turn a profit, much less make enough to support a family. Kate and Doug have found a way to supplement their farming activities with a wedding venue that supports their family but it is in conjunction with their farming. They still do both - which is essential to preservation of our agricultural community. While I do understand the issues with the road and increased traffic surrounding their application, I think that the compromise offered by the Hickeys to ensure that no more than 20 cars come up at once for an event is sufficient. Mahalo for your consideration, Allison Naito 76-1391 Waiono Ranch Rd. petvetallison@yahoo.com 9/18/2020 Fwd:SPP 20-00218.Douglas&Katheryn Hickey Fwd: SPP 20-00218, Douglas & Katheryn Hickey kate@sunshowercoffee.com KA Fri, 18 Sep 2020 10:30:30 AM -1000 To "John Pipan" <john@zendokern.com>, "Zendo Kern" <zendo©zendokern.com>, Katrina Kern" <katrina©zendokern.com> Tags Q Security Learn more Display now External Images are not displayed This was sent directly to Rachelle from a neighbor. Just wanted you guys to have it, but no need to do anything with it. Kate Hickey Sunshower Farms Owner I Coffee Roaster I Event Coordinator 0:(808)443-6330 C:(847)254-2787 Keep In Touch 1t'ith Us! 1)0 you want all our farm news,cute animal pictures, and exclusive coffee sales in one convenient email? Sign up for our newsletter! Forwarded message From: Sara <sg_riioore©yahoo.com> Date: Friday, September 18 2020 at 10:09 AM HST Subject: SPP 20-00218, Douglas & Katheryn Hickey To: "rachelle.ley i hawaiicounty.gov" <rachelle.ley@hawaiicounty,gov_> Attn: Rachelle Lay, Hawaii Leeward Planning Commission Re: SPP 20-000218, Douglas & Katheryn Hickey 1/2 9/18/2020 Fwd:SPP 20-00218,Douglas&Katheryn Hickey To Whom It May Concern: I am writing is support of SPP 20-000218, with reservation. I have known the applicants for many years as positive members of the farming community and members of the Kona County Farm Bureau. I also am a consultant for local farmers as Farm Works Hawaii and have been the property manager for Allison Naito's property above the Hickeys since 2017. The address of that farm is 76-1391 Waiono Ranch Rd. In all my experiences with Kate and Doug, I have found them to be dedicated farmers, community members and conscientious neighbors. Since the beginning of their planning process with their wedding venue permit, they have involved myself and the other neighboring properties and have asked for feedback. I find their proposed compromises regarding noise to be reasonable. I do have reservations on the amount of traffic for the requested permittable events due to the impact on the access roadway to their driveway. This access road has no maintenance association and is often in need of repair due to the present amount of traffic and the weather conditions. It is an area of high rainfall. I would suggest allowing less events per year to alleviate this burden on the road. The reason I support their application because I understand how difficult it can be to make a living farming. And while the proposed use of their ag land for a wedding venue is not farming, it will allow their small farm to stay in business and stay farming, which is a goal the county should want to protect. Some of the other ag-zoned properties on Waiono Ranch Rd. may not be actively farming, and that is likely because farming is difficult and rarely very profitable. Those who are actually using their ag land to farm should be supported as much as possible, even if it means allowing non- agricultural uses in conjunction with their ag uses. The other reason I support their application is because they are going about it the right way and trying to be legal to the process. There are many individuals who conduct events such as theirs that circumvent the laws, for profit. Denying the Hickeys would encourage this practice. It would be an incentive to not be transparent and to run "under-the-table" for-profit venues on agricultural property. I ask your serious consideration to this SPP application, and encourage the commission to work with the Hickeys and the community to come to an agreeable permitted level of activity. Sincerely yours. Sara Moore P.O. Box 632 Honaunau, HI 96726 sg moore@yahoo.com 808) 896-2873 2/2 Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Aesha Shapiro and my business is Aesha Rose Event & Design, located in Kona. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because we have a serious lack of venues in the Kona area. With the lack of affordable venues that are available in Kona this would really help the local community by having a place to hold an event that is not at an over priced hotel. Additionally Sunshower farms does so much for the community and they have let non-profit groups have their current space for a lowered price or for free, which is something this community desperately needs more of, and they would be continuing their generosity with even more to offer for these kinds of groups if they were to get their permit. By allowing them to proceed with their plans it would greatly help the Kona wedding industry and all of the people in that field here, such as event planners, caterer's, musicians, entertainers, bartenders, makeup and hair stylists, photographers, calligraphers, florists, and so on. They have already proven to be a valuable asset to this community and have my full support on obtaining this permit. Mahalo! Aesha Shapiro Owner-Operator at Aesha Rose Event & Design Founder of The Ladies Artisan Market and the LAM Networking Group for Women Event Director for Lanihau Center Co-Founder of the Best of Kona Festival Marketing Director for the 2020 Big Island Chocolate Festival 808-443-3884 Aloha hawaii CountyPlanning Commission, My name is Ally grown and I am the Executive Director of the Miss Kona Coffee Scholarship rrogram&my business is Revitalized Life Ally 5 located here in Kailua Kona, hawaii&I support 5unshower rarms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because beautiful locations like this are hard to come by. being a part of the gig Island wedding community as well as other community organizations and events, I'm always looking for event space on the west side and we cannot afford to lose any especially one like 5unshower rarms that truly captures the essence of the gig Island. 5unshower rarms is an important part of the gig Island Wedding Industry and an outstanding community member always willing to lend a hand to fellow business, non-profits& the community. Mahalo Nui Loa for your time&consideration. Warm Aloha, Ally grown Revitalized Life Ally 5 Executive Director— Miss Kona Coffee Scholarship rrogram revitalizedlifeallyb@gmail.com http://revitalizedlifeallyb.com https://misskonacoffee.or` The strawberry patch Ilc Restaurant and catering co. 79-7491 Mamalahoa hwy. Kealakekua, Hi. 96750 Aloha, my name is Amelia Antonucci-Fisher, I am the proprietor, owner of the strawberry patch restaurant in Kealakekua Hi. I support Sunshower Farms IIc's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue as it will be an amazing addition to our community as well as to so many small businesses and independent vendors. As a small business owner for almost 10 years on the big island I recognize the importance of small venues for weddings and special occasions. I have had quite a few opportunities to work alongside Sunshower Farms for some of my small events. They conduct a great level of professionalism in coordinating and are always aiming to reach out and support independent small businesses. This presents an opportunity for a trickle down effect, supporting everyone in the industry from the caterer, the florist, the baker, photographer, the staff, and all of the other numerous vendors that come into play with weddings and events. The amount of work that this venue could open up for our community, now more than ever, is crucial. With so many out of work in this very uneasy economy it is so important that we can do our part to support and keep it moving forward. I support this permit and cannot stress enough the importance to our industry being able to bounce back when destination weddings on the big island return. Amelia Antonucci-Fisher The strawberry patch Ilc. fisherfamily@chefamelia.net Chefamelia.net September 16, 2020 A ona Hawaii County Punning Commission, My name is Ann Ferguson and my business is Ann Ferguson Photography LLC based in Waikoloa, HI. I have been a wedding photographer on the Big Island for the past four years. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because I think that they provide a valuable and beautiful space for both destination and local weddings on the island. Wedding venues are an important part of my business as a wedding and elopement photographer. Wedding location is a major decision factor for weddings and events. Sunshower Farms provides an amazing wedding location for weddings in Kona especially for couples looking for wedding venues beyond the hotels and beachfront homes. They have hosted many weddings with raving reviews supporting their impeccable service. More importantly, more wedding venues or increased wedding and event capacity for venues on the Big Island translates to more revenue for many weddings vendors, who are currently facing financial struggles brought on by the pandemic. Sunshower Farms also offers an affordable wedding venue on the island particularly for local weddings. With the widespread financial effects of COVID-19, local couples need more venues that can meet their new needs going forward. Lastly, Sunshower Farms values sustainability! The proposed new wedding venue is designed to be carbon-neutral (or very close to it)! The venue will be solar powered, produce as little as possible waste with all food composted.A special chipper has been purchased by the farm so that cardboard and even paper plates and wooden forks we use will be chipped and used on the farm as mulch. We need to support business on the island that value and practice sustainability! For all these reasons, I fully support the special use permit for Sunshower Farms LLC. Mah?lo, Aftn F91-guson Ann Ferguson Photography LLC ann@annfergusonphotography.com www.annfergusonphotography.com EMOTION GALLERIES August 18,2020 Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Ranae Bamsey and my business is EMotion Galleries a wedding photography business primary working on the Kona and Kohala Coast of Hawaii Island. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a wedding venue because it is one of the few venues that actually creates a proper working environment for wedding vendors. Major hotels not only dictate the independent contractors pricing structure, but they also take a finder fee of as much as 20% of our gross income. Sunshower Farms allows wedding vendors to set their own prices and does not charge us a fee allowing the income generated by the wedding to stay in the local community and not go to a national or international cooperation. Sunshower is good community member and an important part of the Big Island wedding industry because they set a precedent of proper work relationships and the industry as a whole rising together. Thank you for your consideration in adding our wedding industry on 5i the Big Island. Due to Covidl9 tourism and the wedding industry has been suffering. Weddings will help rebuild out economy and may be a sector for early recovery as weddings encourage family groupings and safety within the groups relationship. Sincerely, L_„7r C-. Ranae Bamsey September 6, 2020 Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Beth Balik, and I am a Licensed Massage Therapist in Kailua Kona. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because a thriving local wedding industry generates revenue for other local vendors, like me. Prior to the pandemic, Sunshower Farms LLC offered me opportunities to work at their events on multiple occasions. I have also been to the property for a private event hosted by my local friends as a guest. Their magnificent landscape, focus on sustainability, and support for other local suppliers attract kama'aina and guests to their services. For so many, a wedding in Hawaii may seem like a pipe dream because of the cost. The Hickey family of Sunshower Farms LLC goes above and beyond to make island event dreams a reality. They will be instrumental in re-igniting tourism when the current restrictions are lifted, and that will be beneficial for all of us. While I was in massage school, I worked as a Community Marketer/Concierge for Wyndham Vacations on Ali'i Drive. More than anything, our guests are looking for a "local" experience. They want to know where the locals go, what they do and how they live. As a working coffee farm and event venue, Sunshower Farms LLC satisfies those requirements. I am confident that you will not regret approving their permit. Mahalo, Beth Balik Licensed Massage Therapist 75-6081 Alii Drive #AA103 Kailua Kona, HI 96740 808-494-2364 u*" g.,te August 29, 2020 Aloha Hawai'i County Planning Commission, My name is Clare Bobo and my business is Island Thyme Gourmet. We are a personal chef service and airline caterer located in Kailua Kona. I fully support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue. Our island has really limited places for wedding ceremonies and receptions outside of the resort hotels. The hotels prices are astronomical for weddings and many people, especially locals, can't afford to hold their celebrations there. As a long time caterer, our clients frequently ask where they can have their celebrations and still have us cater their food. Having independent venues helps all the caterers on the island stay viable. It also makes it possible to showcase the agricultural side of Hawai'i Island rather than the landscaped palm trees at the resorts. I've attended a couple of events at Sunshower Farms and have been impressed with their concern for their neighbors. We've been instructed to carpool and drive slowly to avoid creating dust and to keep traffic on the common road to a minimum. They are strong supporters of other small businesses including wedding planners, other caterers, bakers, florists, musicians and more. Having a beautiful venue for celebrations would be a great benefit to the island community and our visitors. Mahalo, Clare Bobo Island Thyme Gourmet Clare@islandthymegourmet.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Danielle Burnside I am the owner of Danielle Burnside Art here in Kona. I fully support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because of the intention behind it; to bring tourists to the island sustainably, while supporting so many small businesses and vendors in the process. Having more venues available that try to provide small businesses work, like Sunshower does, is so imperative for our small and larger community. Sunshower Farms has been so helpful within so many facets of our community, from working with small farm owners, supporting small businesses through small group processing events(Rising Tide Society), helping numerous small businesses and vendors gain a better understating of right action and comprehension of professional and intentional work,while engaging with tourists in an intentional way and respecting the island while doing so. Their commitment to the Big Island community is clear and I support them! Mahalo nui loa, Danielle Burnside Danielle Burnside Art danielleburnside@live.com www.danielleburnside.com To the Hawaii County Planning Commission : I am Jileen Russell. I am the owner of Pu'u 0 Kumau Ranch and a Representative for Slow Food Hawaii (an International Food Network that • educates and promotes good, clean and fair food for all). I am writing in support of Sunshower Farms and the application for a special use permit for a wedding venue. I own a Farm and it is difficult enough to find a market for what you produce as well as make make your expenses just from Farming. It is important to be able to expand your operation and invite tours and tourists to come and enjoy and experience. Hawaii needs to diversify beyond the resorts and hotels. The growth of vacation rentals has proven that people want more than just an experience at a resort or hotel. They want to see more of the Island than what is off the road. Weddings are a reason for many to come to Hawaii. It is an industry all to itself. People come to Hawaii and bring their Families and Friends. This service provides income and jobs to our island. Sunshower Farms is a good steward and community member on our Island. Please consider granting them this permit so they might grow and expand their business and continue the important work that they do for the benefit of Hawaii Island. Sincerely, Jileen Russell Pu'u 0 Kumau Ranch PO Bos 542 Kapa'au, Hi 96755 808-884-5825 jileen@kumau.com August 14, 2020 KAREN LOUDON.COM fr Karen Loudon Karen Loudon Photography 73-1172 Ahikawa St. Kailua-Kona,HI 96740 Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Karen Loudon and my business is Karen Loudon Photography,based in Kailua-Kona,HI. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because this working farm is a beautiful property that exudes the heart and history of Holualoa,HI and should be enjoyed by many. Sunshower Farms is one of my favorite places to photograph weddings on the Island of Hawaii. I feel a peace,a connection with nature,the farm animals and aloha whenever I'm there, as I look out on the beauty of the landscapes. It fuels my creativity as a photographer. The orchard tour at Sunshower Farms explains the entire coffee farming process including seasonality,growth patterns, ripening,harvesting,pruning, orchard maintenance and pests, including the opportunity to meet and feed the weed control(their herd of sheep).Guests learn about how Kona coffee differs from other coffee world-wide. It's clear how much Kate Hickey,the owner, loves the property,keeping the Holualoa coffee farming industry alive while sharing it with her guests. Sunshower Farms helps to support my business, Karen Loudon Photography. Sunshower Farms does not collect compensation or commission from me when I work there,and contributes to the overall economy of the island, particularly to the Kona area and the town of Holualoa.The Farm offers an alternative type of wedding venue to the big beach resorts on the Coast and most of their events bring in tourists. Sunshower Farms has very clear regulations that prohibit fire hazards and amplified music over 55 dcb. All the vendors I have worked with at the ranch respect the regulations. I have photographed several weddings at Sunshower Farms and I have never observed the music ending later than 9pm. Please consider expediting the Special Permit Process for Sunshower Farms and allow them to host weddings and sharing their wonderful slice of old Hawai'i history with many more guests! Thanks you for your consideration, Sincerely, 1-Z,— ) )1**1.---- - Karen Loudon Karen Loudon Photography Karenloudon.com 808-989-9167 karen@karenloudon.com September 10,2020 Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Lyla Mah and my business is Lalamilo Flower Girl.I am a 3rd generation flower farmer from Kamuela,Hawaii and I make the majority of my income from working with Sunshower Farms. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because I am one of many small vendors that works with Sunshower Farms.I have been working with Kate and Doug for the past 3 years.It is my opinion that they have created a beautiful opportunity to add value to their farm and revenue as times have become very hard for farmers. Not only have they looked out for their own means but also that of the rest of our community.Their farm has been supporting many other small businesses like my own since the beginning. Sunshower Farms venue has allowed me to exponentially expand my business and also that of many other local businesses. This permit means so much to me and many others because a lot of our revenues depend on it.With their venue I have been able to work as a single mother and provide for my children.Their flexibility has also been very important to me because I am able to bring my children to floral set ups and break downs when I wasn't able to find child care.Which then grew into me being able to afford childcare/preschooling for both of my children. Working with Sunshower has also allowed me to continue my Hawaiian cultural practice in the form of lei making and'ohi,the practice of gathering to create floral arrangements.With their help have been able to keep my farm afloat during the tougher periods of economic times,as well as support other local farmers whom I source florals from. Sunshower's venue not only benefits the small business community but also the rest of the community as well,as the pricing that has been available to clients is much more affordable that many of the other venues offered.With the new space Sunshower will have more dates available and will be able to offer kama'aina rates for local clientele. It feels as if there are far more benefits for having this venue than not.I,as a vendor who has been to Sunshower over 100 times,have always been respectful to any other traffic on the road,I go out of my way to give space to any cars or foot traffic.We have never had any complaints about events in the past and I believe that with Kate's plans there will still be the same level of respect given to any neighboring properties. In closing,I hope that you will strongly take into consideration the testimonies of those of us who have been supported by Sunshower Farms,because this will truly be a huge loss for all us small guys if they do not receive their permit. Mahalo, Lyla Mah Lalamilo Flower Girl lalamiloflowergirl@gmail.com www.lalamiloflowergirl.com September 3, 2020 Marty Cakes & Company, LLC POB 384690 68-1698 Hulu St Waikoloa, HI 96738-4690 Aloha and To Whom It May Concern: My name is Martin Rathbun and I have been a resident of the Island since 2009. I came here from Seattle to work with the Four Seasons Hotel as a pastry chef and I am still a staff member in reserve. I was also a principal investor/owner of Daylight Mind Coffee Company and Event Space until our closure in late 2019. Currently, I am the Executive Pastry Chef and owner of Marty Cakes Company, LLC, a cake, fine pastry and dessert company in Waikoloa and I am the principal provider of cakes and pastry for the event space at Papa Kona Events and Catering. I am a member of the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce. I have been acquainted with Kate Hickey and Sunshower Farms, since early 2020. I was approached by Ms. Hickey to create cakes for her wedding and event operation while their principal cake artisan was on vacation. I have produced cakes for them on numerous occasions and delivered them to their location in Holualoa, above Kailua-Kona. Sunshower Farms provides a unique location for event entertaining which showcases a panoramic view of the Kailua-Kona coast. One only has to read their online reviews to know they are recognized in the wedding and hospitality industry here on the Island as a favorite among wedding guests. When I have delivered to the location,the atmosphere has been industrious and upbeat with cheerful staff busily executing their duties in anticipation of arriving guests. One cannot overlook the challenges being faced in this time of COVID as they relate to re- establishing our businesses and being able to keep our citizens employed as we look forward a brighter future. I support Kate Hickey and Sunshower Farms in their efforts to continue in this direction. If I can provide any additional information or support, please do not hesitate to reach out. Warmest Alohas and Mahalos, Chef Martin Rathbun chefmarty@martycakes.com martycakes.com 808-250-5998 August 26, 2020 Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, Our names are Jim and Jane Morrill and we are the owners of American Sportsman Series Fishing Schools Inc. here in Kailua Kona. Hawaii. We are always looking for ways to enhance the experiences and economy of our local community. We thoroughly support other local businesses which look to do the same. The Big Island has long been a popular spot for two things: fishing and weddings! We believe that there are more creative and sustainable ways to fulfill these demands for both visitors and kama'aina alike than is currently offered. Sunshower Farms has created an organically beautiful and sustainable environment for agriculture as well as a sacred space for hosting weddings. This business supports many local residents financially and has been a 5 star rated venue for countless weddings and receptions. We fully support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue to enhance their ability to provide for their clients which will be a win win for the whole community. Their unique location high above the crowded downtown area offers a more authentic experience for their guests while not contributing to the traffic congestion that can overwhelm parts of Kailua Kona. Our local business men and women have been hit harder here in Hawaii than almost anywhere else in the US. Many will not survive which will only further delay our collective economic recovery. It is beyond important to support the local businesses that have shown exceptional strength and fortitude. Sunshower Farms has shown an incredible ability to flex with the demands that this year has brought and it is in the best interest of us all to see them continue to survive and thrive in the coming year. Mahalo, Jim and Jane Morrill American Sportsman Series Fishing School Inc captjimmorrilIc gmail.com kalokofarmsAgmail.com Letter of support for Sunshower Farms venue permit August 24,2020 z Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Shawn Steiman and I'm the owner of Coffea Consulting and Grok Coffee,businesses based on O`ahu. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because their business model enriches tourists'experiences and it supports the Hawaii coffee industry in very good ways. For six years,I was a co-owner of a Kona-based business that hosted many weddings. Although that business no longer exists,I still encounter folks who married at our location. They still wax poetical about the experience and their enduring fondness of the Big Island. These are the people who become ambassadors for our communities and islands. Tourism will always be a part of our economy and supporting it in diverse ways helps all of Hawaii,not just a single island. Just as importantly,the Hawaii coffee industry has challenges not faced by nearly every other coffee industry on the planet. Our remoteness and justifiably high prices present difficulties every farmer here struggles with. Most of Sunshower Farms'coffee is sold at appropriate prices through their wedding clients. Not only does this support the farm in general but it means every guest leaves with a taste and memory of one of Hawaii's most important agricultural products. We need to support operations like this! I've known the folks at Sunshower Farms'since their early days as farmers. Their farm is beautiful, their coffee is delicious,and they are warm, friendly people. They do great justice to our community and giving them this permit only helps them expand the good things they're doing for themselves and our community. Mahalo, Shawn Steiman,PhD Coffea Consulting,www.coffeaconsulting.com Grok Coffee,www.grokcoffee.net s teimana,coffcaconsulting.com Colica Consulting 244 iabintric St, Honolulu, HI,96816 stctman@xlleaconsultins.com • SOS-223-0982 Irttp://coIIcaconiultins.com 1 Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Luis Castillo and my business is Pacific Custom Concrete in Captain Cook. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because I understand the importance of strengthening our local economy during these uncertain times. I have worked with Sunshower Farms LLC in the past and I can attest to the fact that they are a company with the highest integrity and standards. They take pride in their work and their customers are extremely satisfied because of it. I sincerely hope they will be allowed to expand their business to include this much needed venue in Kona as I am confident their business will benefit other small businesses in the wedding and tourism industries. Thank you in advance for your kind consideration. Luis Castillo Pacific Custom Concrete luis@pacificcustomconcrete.com 808-980-4801 Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Ana Rodriguez and my business is The Castillo Collective,located in Kealakekua Bay, Hawaii.We offer interior design services.I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because I know that their company would bring a lot of much needed business to our island community.In addition,I have personally witnessed Kate and Doug Hickey hire other local and small businesses for services such as catering, flower decor, music etc.Supporting local businesses and strengthening our island economy has never been more important.I would love to see Sunshower Farms LLC have the opportunity to see their vision become a reality with an incredible wedding venue. Mahalo for your kind consideration! Ana Rodriguez The Castillo Collective info@thecastillocollective.com www.thecastillocollective.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Lauren Eaton, and I'm an artist and calligrapher in Captain Cook. I am in full support of Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because they regularly provide small business owners like me a unique opportunity to be involved in the community, while supporting myself from home. As a small town artist, opportunities to support myself can be hard to come by, and Sunshower Farms is a huge part of me staying in business. Kate and Doug go out of their way to reach out to local vendors, instead of importing goods from the mainland. Their venue is a perfect example of running a business with aloha. Sunshower Farms closure would be a hard hit for many small local businesses like myself, as they not only support us but enrich the local community as well. Every experience I've had with them has been excellent and again,they have my full support. Mahalo, Lauren Eaton Local Artist/Calligrapher Captain Cook Aloha Hawaii Planning Commission, My name is Ellen Keehan, and I am a member of the musical duo, Honey Jar with Kristin Lagasse. We are writing today to vouch for Sunshower Farms as an important wedding venue in our community.The wedding industry employs many people in our tourist driven area and through each wedding there are hundreds of people hired to come together and put on some of the most beautiful displays of love one could ever see. Sunshower Farms has stunning views of the ocean and a seamless protocol to how the weddings are run and managed. Honey Jar has played at a wedding at Sunshower Farms and got to witness all the work, effort and WOman power that goes into one single evening.We are sending in our testimony today to encourage the powers that be to allow Sunshower Farms to continue to host weddings for people near and far to come, relax,and enjoy this perfect slice of paradise. Venues like Sunshower are extremely important to our business as musical performers as it gives us not only a venue to play but also an audience! There are very very few venues like Sunshower in West Hawaii and our community would be losing something very important if they were no longer allowed to host weddings. Thank you for your consideration, Honey Jar Ellen Keehan&Kristin Lagasse Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Brianne Limani and my business is Runaway Digital LLC in Kona Hawaii. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue. I have attended a wedding at Sunshower Farms and have witnessed how much joy the location and experience brings couples and their guests. As a local blogger and travel influencer, I think Sunshower Farms wedding venue will help attract destination wedding goers to the big island and have a positive impact on tourism. Sunshower farms gives couples a unique and intimate wedding experience that is unlike any other on the island. This diversifies the local wedding industry and adds a unique opportunity for engaged locals and visitors to choose from. Beyond the wedding Venue, Kate is a valuable asset to the community (from her coffee farm to her work with local farmers and women entrepreneur groups) and I would hate to see her close their business if they don't get approved. That's a loss that would be felt throughout the community. Mahalo, Brianne Limani Runaway Digital brianne@runawaydigital.com www.runawaydigital.com To whom it may concern, My name is Kiley Kelson and I own Hakus by Ki,a local floral business specializing in Hawaiian Haku Leis. I am writing this letter to reflect my overwhelming support for Kate Hickey and her business, Sunshower Farms.As a business owner in the wedding and event industry myself, I have seen the dire need for more event venues here in Kona. Kate's current venue is beautiful but can only hold a handful of people and she services a more tourist driven customer base because of this. I am a big advocate for serving the Kama'aina here on island as they are the ones who will sustain your business through the hard times (like we are in now). I believe with a venue expansion like the one Kate is trying to accomplish she will appeal more towards the local residents of the island as many locals are looking for a venue that can hold more people.This is a good thing for our local kona community. Our people deserve more gorgeous and affordable venues to choose from for their special occasions and I applaud Kate and Sunshower Farms for trying to be the ones who provide this to us. Thank you for your time and consideration. Mahalo Piha, Kiley Kelson of Hakus By Ki Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Aly Dove and my business is Aly Dove Photography LLC based in Kona, Hawaii. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because it helps attract clients for local small businesses like mine. The Sunshower Farms venue is unique in that it attracts both local and destination wedding clients. Most of my clients are interested in a venue where they can have a smaller, more intimate wedding with family and friends. Sunshower Farms is the perfect fit for my clients because it's more affordable than other venues, they use sustainable practices in both their farming and event planning, and they have an edge on the market for couples seeking an alternative to weddings at larger resorts. Sunshower Farms also supports and integrates a variety of local vendors into their events. From the florists to the caterers to the musicians and officiants, Sunshower Farms supports local farms and small business owners here on the island. In doing so, Sunshower provides their clients a holistic experience uniquely tailored to their couples while helping them experience the aloha spirit here in Hawaii. Kate and the Sunshower team truly care for and take care of their clients as well as the local vendors she hosts at her venue. I support their application for a special use permit for a wedding venue fully. Mahalo, Aly Dove Aly Dove Photography LLC alyssandradove@gmail.com www.alydove.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Michael and my business is Body Glove Cruises in Kailua Kona. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because Kona is in need of a more diverse selection of venues for events. Now more than ever do we need to do everything in our power to revive our economy. Every additional wedding that is booked is a boom to our local economy, with the accommodations, car rentals, dinners out, farm tours, and activity bookings made. What truly differentiates Kate and Doug at Sunshower Farms from the rest of the venues is that they go out of their way to support the little guy. They always take care of small businesses, from bakers to florists to musicians they are always supporting local establishments for their events. Mahalo, CC Michael Bell I IGeneral Manager I Body Glove Ocean Adventures tli i: o::i:::.com address: 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy.1 Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Meredith Michael and I am a RN in Kailua Kona and small business owner. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because the venue will help support local vendors and businesses as well as providing more jobs and benefit the community and tourism to Holualoa. With the special use permit for a wedding venue they will be able to continue to support other small businesses. I believe it would be difficult to continue to run the Farm without the additional income from the wedding venue permit and I would be very disappointed at the potential loss of valuable community members, farmers and opportunities to boost the economy in Holualoa. Mahalo, Meredith Michael RN Hawaii craftwisehawaii.com meredithjmonello©yahoo.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Bonita Lao and I own Laulima Food Patch in Kona and Queen's Table Catering. I am in support of Sunshower Farms' application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because the number of venues in our community has far-reaching impacts on many other local businesses - mine included. Without wedding and event venues that are not hotels and restaurants, private catering companies like mine would not survive. Private events are our bread and butter, and allow me to continue to grow my business and hire more employees. Also, Sunshower Farms in particular is the type of venue we need more of. They are unique in their location and offerings. And their focus on sustainable weddings is rare in the industry and particularly important for our island. Mahalo, Bonita Lao Laulima Food Patch and Queen's Table Catering hello@queenstablecatering.com https://queenstablecatering.com/ Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Heather Carvalho and I own and operate Spirited Cocktail Catering LLC. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue, as I feel they offer a unique experience on the Big Island as part of the wedding industry. Their farm-style approach offers a sustainable and authentic venue, and an option outside of hotels and other large industry venues. Sunshower also provides their clients with a diverse list of venders outside of the hotel community's preferred lists, extending work opportunities to other small businesses and helping to stimulate growth within our smaller communities. We are grateful to them for including us in their business ohana. Mahalo, Heather Carvalho Spirited Cocktail LLC spiritedcocktail@gmail.com www.spiritedcocktail.com To whom it may concern, As the owner and business proprietor of a local catering company called Color Catering, I am writing in support for sunshower Farms to receive appropriate permits for their venue to continue servicing wedding clients here on the big Island of Hawaii. From a catering standpoint, their ability to host events has a significant impact, not only on my business but on many other vendors in the community who's businesses are interdependent on the availability of venues such as Sunshower farms. What's unique about how Kate and her team manages this venue that differs from an independent vacation rental is their unique position to be directly supporting all of the wedding vendors in terms of referrals for their clients and the attraction of many people to attend the events that support the economic interests of our island. I'm not familiar with the issues that any neighbors may have that might impede the permitting process, but my experience with Kate is that they are very courteous community members and take every measure to ensure noise levels are reasonable and impacts are minimum to surrounding properties. Being that we are in a rural agricultural area with more space between property, Big Island has a unique opportunity to host larger weddings and gatherings that do support many local businesses not just in the wedding industry. As a wedding professional for over 10 years, I can tell you that if we lose venues our potential wedding clients will choose other venues off island which is a loss to many businesses, not just the venues themselves. I feel it is a definite economic and social boost to our community at large to have venues such as Sunshower farms to showcase and support our rural agriculture to clients world wide. We depend on such alliances with our vendors to survive in these economic times. We are in this together! Thank you very much for your kind consideration in this matter to support this vital local business. Sincerely, Erin Pasco Color Catering Paauilo Hawaii 808-557-5507 colorcatering@gmail.com 0 Y- 1 if1-1 Co MagicStrings G. Ursula Vietze LLC P.O. Box 2652 808) 936 -5701 phone Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 808) 325 - 5063 fax ursula.magicstringsna,gmail.com http://www.magicstrings.com/ To whom it may concern: We greatly appreciate Kate Hickley with Sunshower Farms to provide a beautiful venue for weddings and special events. They provide work for us musicians and also for ministers, florists, catering etc, etc, etc. The venue is run very professionally and presents a beautiful "Hawaiian Style Atmosphere". Especially with no work at all for the last 4 months, due to the covid crisis we need all the work we can get and I am sure Hawaii needs all the tax money it can get from this business. Aloha Ursula Vietze owner of MAGIC SRINGS music. August 16, 2020 Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Elizabeth Theriault,our family business is Kona Art Gallery in Holualoa. We host 23 Artists all from the Big Island and many from the Holualoa area. My husband Gary and I, with our son have lived and worked in Hawaii for 35 years. Additionally, part of the community service work I do is Ceremonial based, for healing, love, life, and peace. (multi-cultural bridging,empowerment with music,officiating weddings, and hospice care). We support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because with the environment to support Community in a multitude of ways along with a venue on land with animals, sacred and native trees, view of coastline and ocean there are many many opportunities to be of service not only for financial gain, but also as needed for healing, sharing Hawaiian values, provide very much needed wedding venues, and a sense of Ohana and community simply by being present there,or even better, by participating. In these ever changing times,to have welcoming family based businesses, holistic with all elements of life can truly expand ones experience to have even more Aloha to share and understand the values of life so important for balance, growth and basic human happiness. We thank you for your time and consideration of these words which have proven themselves in action. I have been blessed to officiate weddings at Sunshower Farms....I have witnessed the positive impact of this Ohana for the betterment of residents, visitors, and the balance of Hawaii life itself. Mahalo Nui Loa, Elizabeth and Gary Theriault Kona Art Gallery, Holualoa, HI blessingways@yahoo.com www.blessingways.net Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Aislinn Chalker and my business is Wilde Sparrow Photography, based in Waikoloa on the Big Island. I strongly support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because of the huge potential it has to bring additional business and revenue to the many local small businesses on the Big Island that work in the wedding industry. In 2013, a study found that the wedding industry in the United States brings in $53.4 billion dollars a year in wedding-related expenses. But currently,on the Big Island, there is only a small. number of wedding venues, most of which are hotels, greatly handicapping the potential for the county to truly benefit from this billion-dollar industry. The wedding industry is made up of multiple smaller businesses like caterers, wedding consultants, various beauty suppliers (hair, makeup),photographers,musicians,etc... A new wedding venue would mean a new outlet for spending dollars from wedding clients to any or all of those local businesses and would greatly serve the local economy. And Sunshower Farms has made it a point to always whole-heartedly support their fellow small business owners. They are just downright good people and good neighbors and I know in my heart they would make it their mission to ensure that as many local vendors as possible are supported with this new venue endeavor. Mahalo, Aislinn Chalker Chalker& Co LLC, DBA Wilde Sparrow Photography aislinn@wildesparrow.com www.wildesparrow.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Corinne Priest and my business is Aloha Zoe Photography located on Hawai'i Island. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because my husband and I (owners of Aloha Zoe Photography)are so grateful for everything this establishment has done for us. The first time I ever heard of Sunshower Farms was when my husband and I were looking for a place to have our own wedding reception when we got married almost two years ago. During our search,we found Sunshower Farms to be everything we hoped for on our wedding day! Sunshower Farms is such an authentic and unique wedding venue unlike anywhere else in Hawaii that highlights the importance of coffee farming, which is so important to the island's history and culture. We strongly think that the Big Island is in need of more diverse wedding venue locations, and Sunshower Farms is an incredible option for couples seeking an alternative venue location to experience one of the most important days of their lives. After talking to Kate and feeling totally confident in her ability to help us plan our reception, my husband and I decided that Sunshower Farms would be the perfect wedding reception for us. I can attest that Kate and her amazing team's effort made our day so memorable. Two years ago, we started our wedding photography business and since then, we have had the pleasure of capturing other couple's wedding days at Sunshower Farms. Our clients have been absolutely thrilled with Kate and her team's work ethic and overall wedding experience. We have clients ask all the time about alternative wedding venues that are not oceanfront restaurants, hotels, or on a beach. We absolutely love recommending Sunshower Farms because it is such a special location, and it really appeals to many of our clients' preferences when looking for a unique venue. Mahalo, Corinne and Ryan Priest Aloha Zoe Photography contact@alohazoephotography.com www.alohazoephotography.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Nakoa Pabre and my business is Umekes Fish Market Bar and Grill. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because it is a unique and beautiful venue for events in Hawaii. So many venues in Hawaii are focused on the beach side weddings but being up in the mountain with the fresh air and the breath-taking views of the Kona coast is another great option for destination weddings. Umekes LLC especially supports Sunshower Farms because Kona needs more small, local owned businesses to thrive. With Sunshower Farms business thriving, it in turn would help small businesses like Umekes by giving us catering opportunities and further advertising our business. Together small businesses like Umekes and Sunshower can aid in each other's successes and help the Kona community to thrive. Mahalo, Nakoa Pabre Umekes LLC Nakoa@umekesrestaurants.com Umekesrestaurants.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Mark Hinwood and I am the owner and principal photographer for Mark Hinwood Photographer LLC. My business operates out of Kailua Kona and is a part of the thriving wedding market that is here on Hawaii Island. I have been a professional photographer photographing weddings for 10 years now and one of the trends I am currently seeing is that wedding couples are in search for unique venues that offer something extra for them and their guests and Sunshower Farms offers this. A common theme is that clients are wanting local small vendors/businesses that connect with each other to make their whole wedding unique&personal. I have worked with Sunshower farms multiple times and not only are they a wedding venue utilizing multiple vendors such as local photographers, florists,chefs, brewers, officiants, musicians etc but they are a working farm that creates products which are utilized by local businesses integrating them into their own products. Sunshower farms is part of an amazing network of businesses that support each other and I can only see the expansion of their wedding venue as a positive and much needed addition to the community and Hawaii Island at large. Mahalo, Mark Hinwood Mark Hinwood Photographer LLC info@markhinwood.com www.MarkHinwood.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Suelang Watson and I am a mobile DJ based out of Hamakua. Sunshower Farms makes a wonderful wedding venue and I fully support their(Sunshower Farms LLC's)application for a special use permit for a wedding venue. Over the last couple of years I have provided DJ services for multiple wedding parties at Sunshower Farms. Offering their property as a wedding venue for couples benefits not only the bride groom and their wedding guests because of the beautiful and unique location of the farm - making for a very special, memorable day, but it is also a real boost for the array of the local vendors who are hired to provide whatever wedding services they specialise in. It has been a real blessing for me, being repeatedly hired by people from an array of interesting places who have chosen to come together at such a gorgeous location as Sunshower Farms in order to celebrate their union amongst loved ones. I enjoy the privilege of sharing my passion for music on their super special day,and as an added bonus I get paid to do so! Myself and many others small businesses from our Big Island community benefit from opportunities of paid work as a result of Sunshower Farms being a wedding venue. I look forward to continued success and abundance collaborating with them to provide wonderful wedding experiences for their clients. Mahalo, Suelang Watson Suelang Watson DJ Lyra Love- Event DJ Suelang.Watson@gmail.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Breanna Nelson and my business is Bre Rae Photography LLC, in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because more wedding venues will help bolster our local economy in countless ways.Not only for my small business,but for other local photographers, wedding planners, makeup artists, and other local wedding industry professionals. More wcdding venues will attract more people to the idea of coming to big island to get married which will have a positive effect on all local businesses involved in the wedding industry. When I was planning my own wedding on Big Island not too long ago, I noticed there were far too few formal facilities available for weddings,and most venues were at the resorts which are, for the most part, not locally owned. I would personally be thrilled to be able to collaborate with more locally owned venues and a special use permit for Sunshower Farms LLC would allow for this to be possible! Sunshower already has already shown they are a valuable member of the greater Kona wedding community,they have outstanding reviews from anyone who works with them. I hope you take my letter of support into consideration when considering Sunshower Farms LLC for a special use permit. Feel free to contact me if you have any additional questions or comments. Mahalo, Breanna Rae Nelson Bre Rae Photography LLC breraephoto@gmail.com www.breraephoto.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Clare McAdam and I am an owner of Kehaulani Farms LLC in Honokaa. We are a small, family-owned, off-grid farm and a forest bathing retreat. I am writing to you to support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a new wedding venue because I believe that this will enable Sunshower Farms to significantly increase the number and size of events that they host on premises and which will therefore lead to an increase in the services and products purchased from other local businesses as well as an increase in referrals to those businesses. An increase in wedding and special events at Sunshower Farms will also create various new employment opportunities in the local labor market. Kehaulani Farms will benefit from an increase in forest therapy referrals for wedding parties and corporate groups and therefore I support the application for a new venue for sunshower Farms wholeheartedly. Sunshower Farms has always been a huge supporter of our business and of others in the farming and event communities. Thank you for your consideration. Mahalo, Clare McAdam Kehaulani Farms clare@kehaulanifarms.com www.kehaulanifarms.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Anna Moreno and my business is Wild Sound Film,a photography business on Big Island. I have shot weddings at Sunshower farms and it is always my favorite venue to work with! Kate and her team are incredibly organized,responsible,and her clients always give glowing reviews of her venue and services. I very much support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because I think it will add to the community to have another excellent wedding venue to choose from! I have friends who are getting married on the big island and their biggest complaint is that there are not enough choices when it comes to wedding venues. Especially for folks who don't have a big enough budget to go to the bigger hotels. Sunshower Farms plays a crucial role in bringing the wedding economy of the Big Island to local vendors. Please pass this permit and better the community! Mahalo, Anna Moreno. Wild Sound Film wildsoundfilm@gmail.com wildsoundfilm.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Sarah Gehman and my business is Sarah Gehman Photography LLC, based in Kailua Kona, Hawaii! I JOYFULLY support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because they add incredible value,not only to this island and this community, but also to the visitors that greet our island. Kate and her incredible team never cease to impress with their hard work and dedication to provide a beautiful and safe space for events and weddings. They are great caretakers of their land and truly respect this place that we all call home. Sunshower Farms benefits my business,too,with all of the referrals that they send my way. Kate is generous and cares to support local, Big Island vendors by connecting her clients to local photographers, florists, make up artists, caterers and more! For every wedding and event that she hosts, a half of a dozen local business owners have a job. It's a huge blessing to this community, especially considering the amount of weddings that Sunshower Farms hosts each year! We need more wedding venues like hers! Mahalo, Sarah Gehman Sarah Gehman Photography LLC Sarahgehmanphoto@gmail.com www.sarahgehmanphoto.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Reese Klenke and my business is Reese & Renee LLC; my wife and I are wedding photographers here in Hawaii. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because there are few on the island and the demand is increasing at their property, but also in Hawaii as a whole. More wedding venues are important to the industry here because so many couples and their families are traveling from all over the world to be together in this often once-in-a-lifetime place. Since the demand is so high, this is beneficial to my business and other local businesses in the wedding industry where we can bring in income to support our families in this expensive state. I support Sunshower Farms specifically because they're a sustainable farm, eco-friendly event space,and environmentally conscious business; something that is rare in the Hawaii wedding venue world. Not only that, but they're so good about referring business to other local businesses and not hoarding it all to themselves- in this way,they truly encompass the sharing& love within the Aloha Spirit. They honestly want to see others succeed and thrive in this community as well as steward the land they have purchased and give back to the community in various other ways! Mahalo, Reese Klenke Reese& Renee LLC aloha@reeseandrenee.com www.reeseandrenee.com, Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Muriel Fairman and I am the owner and head photographer of Moments by Moriel, based on Oahu. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because I think it will greatly benefit the wedding industry here in Hawaii! I have worked with Sunshower Farms LLC and very much look forward to working again with them in the future. They benefit my business by providing referrals for my services, and vice versa! They provide a unique experience for their wedding clients while sharing the beauty of Hawaii. The wedding industry here in Hawaii is constantly growing and with that the different businesses involved will need to grow as well to keep up. Mahalo, Muriel Fairman Moments by Moriel, LLC momentsbymoriel@gmail.com Momentsbymoriel.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Linda Dickinson and my business is Makeup Artistry by Linda, LLC.; located in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because they are responsible business owners who always takes into consideration what's best for our residents here by making socially responsible business decisions. Having more wedding venues would not only be more beneficial to the tourists who are planning a destination wedding on the Big Island, but it would be beneficial to my small business - as well as many other wedding industry small businesses as well. I do wedding hair and makeup and it is my primary source of income. Having another much-needed wedding venue will help to brine in more weddings as well as help to accommodate our local residents who wish to marry on the island-but have limited options. As a local business owner, I support Sunshower for this permit because as people, Kate& Doug do such a wonderful job with their family-owned, environmentally friendly farm. Anything they do is carried out with a well-thought-out passion to help the Big Island to be a sought out wedding destination spot. I hope that you will consider granting a wedding venue permit to Sunshower Farms. I have no doubt in my mind that it would bring so much opportunity to our island. Mahalo, Linda Dickinson Makeup Artistry by Linda, LLC. Linda@makeupartistrybylinda.com http://www.makeupartistrybylinda.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Bailey Makaimoku and my business is Bailey Makaimoku Photography based out of Hilo, HI. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because I have shot multiple weddings here and Kate and her husband take great care of their property, are wonderful considerate neighbors,and provide a unique Big Island venue to their wedding couples. In Hawaii,there is a lack of venues that provide a more intimate experience on a property that supports locally grown crops and other small businesses. This helps them sell their coffee they are already growing locally and giving more people a taste of what it is like to be on the Big Island vs. a tourist wedding at a hotel. Again, I 100%support Sunshower Farms pursuing this permit because to have a separate venue would allow them to be able to serve more couples, support other local businesses and help others visiting Hawaii to get a more unique and intimate look into what Hawaii is really like. They raise and take care of farm animals,the coffee farm, and all other parts of their property to give their clients the most for their wedding day. Mahalo, Bailey Makaimoku Bailey Makaimoku Photography Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Elana Jadallah and I own ElanaLoo Consulting LLC. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because having more wedding venues is extremely beneficial economically for our town. I support Sunshower, specifically,for this permit because they are an interactive, essential part of our Big Island community & wedding industry and this will be an incredible addition to their business! Mahalo, Elana Jadallah ElanaLoo Consulting, LLC hello@elanaloo.com Elanaloo.com Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Hannah and my business is Hannah C's Photography located in Kailua Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because they are such a quality venue that really cares about their clients and the Island. For me personally as a wedding photographer, such a quality venue that brings in couples looking to get married on the Big Island is a big deal. Sunshower Farms are huge supporters of local businesses and a true representation of Aloha, and they bring in clients that are also looking for that local and organic experience. Sunshower Farms is one of my favorite places to get booked for a wedding on the island, and I am really looking forward to them expanding and being able to support more clients that are looking for a laid back farm setting to celebrate their love. It would mean a lot to all of us in the wedding industry if their application for a special use permit for a wedding venue was accepted. Mahalo, Hannah Cooper Hannah Cs Photography Hannah@hannahcsphotography.com HannahCsPhotography.com Hello Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Jon Bodhi Harris and my business is Jon Bodhi Film and Photography based in Kailua-Kona. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because they are one of the few local wedding venues that support local business. I shoot weddings all across the Island chain from upscale resorts to small intimate beach weddings. A lot of my weddings take place at the big resort hotels. Big resort hotel weddings usually find all their vendors in house and don't support other local businesses like food catering, flowers, and entertainment. I love Sunshower Farms because they source their vendors locally. Small local eateries like Shaka Tacos, and Loko Wraps cater the weddings, local floral designers, and local wedding videographers like myself. I support Sunshower Farms because they balance the economy by letting smaller business participate in larger weddings. The Sunshower Farms expansion will help support small local business like myself and bring more money into the local economy. Mahalo, Jon Bodhi Harris Jon Bodhi Film and Photography Jonbodhi808@gmail.com www.bodhiweddings.com r : P.O.Box 848 Pah pa,HI 96778 be heat now Hawaii Solll)(!& vision Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Jessica Bruner and I represent Hawaii Sound and Vision,an audio/visual and live entertainment company with more than 20 years of experience working at the top locations on the Big Island of Hawaii. I am writing this letter in support of Sunshower Farms and their exciting forward momentum as a wedding/event venue. We are so grateful to have been a part of so many wonderful celebrations at Sunshower Farms and look forward to many more in the future. Speaking on behalf of our entire team,we support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue. This island is such an amazing place to celebrate a marriage and having a venue as unique as each individual's love to celebrate is so significant to the experience. We have been very fortunate to be a part of countless events at countless venues,and we truly believe Sunshower Farms stands out in such a special and individual way. We arc so very passionate about our community and industry and believe Sunshower Farms has the momentum to become an important part(however big or small)of our island's ability to thrive economically,creatively and as an ohana. These sort of partnerships and celebrations are what bring us together as humans and fuel our growth as both individuals and as a community. Mahalo, Jessica Bruner Technical Sales Associate I Coordinator Hawaii Sound & Vision hawaiisay.com a\\ .hawaiisay.com OFFICE: (808)982-8330 MOBILE: (808) 785-2718 C: 808-982-8330 808-982-8340 aloha@hawaiisay.com www.hawaiisay.com H \ 1\ \ l I l \ l' cl l ( 111', 1 ). l . I , ( February 6,2020 1\iiehacla Larson 68-18311 Pau Nasi St. Vaikoloa. Hi. 96738 Aloha I lawaii County Planning Commission, Iv name is Michaela Iehuanani Lamm and my business name is Hawaii Untouched,1.1.0 dim Hawaiian Style Beach Weddings. Specializing in sacred Hawaiian ceremonies on Hawaii island.Our services include I lawaiiau style weddings.wedding olliciants.Luul I>Iessinp.home blessings and celebration of life ce're•ndroies. 1 support Sunshower Farms I J.C's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because of the great need for unique locations like this,a working coffer farm. The district of Kona and of the I lolualna collet.belt is known throughout the world to provide some of the greatest coflve available. In fact the routs of coffee in Hawaii began here. This venue.Sunshower Farms,not only provides a fabulous wedding location and work for local vendors.it add:to the historic value to the visitor experience and the Kona Coffee industy. When I'm preparing for a ceremony at Sunshower Farms.I see Kate and her teen working very hard to provide quality service to their clients. A great deal of attention goes to the couples spontaneous wants and needs. All this.alwav with aloha... I am very grateful and privileged to perlbrm wedding ceremonies at Sunshower Farms. Mahal()nui loa. 11lich.tela Lchuanani Larson 808-W16-7955 Hawaii Untouched,LI C:dba Hawaiian Style Reach Weddings http;1/hawai iuntouchc d.c nm latp://wwKhawaiianstylebeachweddings.com Simple Kona Beach Weddings ww;ra.Simolc Kc^al3eacnkNeoangs.ccm 75-5660 Kopiko Sr.,Sro.C7 p286,KaiL;a Kona,HI 96740 SimpleKonaBeacnWedo ngs@gma l.com 1-888-582-5775 x1 February 7,2020 Dear Hawaii County Planning Commission: My name is Becky Ringler,Owner of Simple Kona Beach Weddings here in Kailua- Kona, HI. I support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because, honestly,we are in desperate need of wedding venues that are not at hotels,that offer couples the opportunity for a beautiful,affordable and unique Big Island wedding experience! Although I mainly do beach weddings, I do occasionally help plan and coordinate weddings and receptions for larger parties(for which the beach is then out of the question),and to have a sanctioned venue,with the proper permits,at such a beautiful location as Sunshower Farms,will allow me to offer a wonderful option to my couples-something unique and special,which really features what the Big Island is all about. In short, the community needs more wedding venues like this(i.e. not at a hotel or a restaurant, but something more than a private home) in general, and specifically,it needs Sunshower Farms as an official wedding venue! Thus,I whole-heartedly support Sunshower Farms for the permit it needs to become a sanctioned wedding venue.To be able to offer my couples a venue that is a locally owned,woman-owned,Big Island Business would be a win for the whole of the wedding industry here in Kona,and would provide so many opportunities for numerous vendors in the wedding industry a place to provide the services that they do best. Yours Sincerely, Becky Ringler WY Owner/Coordinator/Planner/Officiant Simple Kona Beach Weddings SirnpleKonaBeach Weddings@gmail-com 1-888-582-5775 x1 www.SimpleKona8eachWeddings_corn Aloha Hawaii County Planning Commission, My name is Ashley Akamu and I am co owner and manager of Bula Music. We are an entertainment company based out of Holualoa specializing in music and Hawaiian entertainment for special events. We fully support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because of their professionalism, dedication to the community, and genuine Aloha. We have had the pleasure of providing entertainment for many weddings and events held at Sunshower Farms and each time, we are blown away with the venue and owner Kate. Kate is beyond professional, always organized. prompt, and attentive. You can tell she deeply cares for each of her clients and makes a personal unique experience for each of them. Sunshower Farms has excelled in the wedding industry and has gained an incredible reputation amongst the couples they serve and the vendors they work with. As a wedding coordinator of 11 years, I understand the demanding dedication it takes to run a successful wedding business and I can tell you that Kate definitely empowers that dedication. She and her team provide absolutely beautiful weddings that help to further make a name for Big Island. Holualoa as a community. and Hawaii's coffee industry. They provide a unique style focusing on sustainability and eco friendly options that many other venues do not offer. This alone is extremely important to the future of our island. With each wedding comes the need for numerous vendors which in turn means that the potential economic benefits of each wedding is substantial. We stand behind Sunshower Farms with the upmost confidence that if they are granted this permit, they will continue to excel by attracting more couples. providing jobs for local vendors, and promoting the beauty of our island as a whole. Sunshower Farms is truly a remarkable business with a hard working team. They are one of a kind and their potential to further promote Big Island and the beautiful weddings they create should not be underestimated. Mahalo for your time. Ashley Akamu Bula Music bula @akamumusic.com www.bolamusic.com February 7. 2020 Hawaii County Planning Commission. We are Michael and Amber Haley and we are local real estate agents and small business owners.We operate in Kailua-Kona, Hilo and across the Big Island.We support Sunshower Farms LLC's application for a special use permit for a wedding venue because we have personally seen how their business has brought much needed employment to local residents. Having local wedding venues, like the one at Sunshower Farms brings jobs and tourism to our state.As you know,for many local people jobs are often hard to come by. The local job market directly impacts the ability for people to purchase and invest in real estate.As any real estate professional would tell you,the local real estate market is a huge part of any local economy. Sunshower Farms LLC is a locally run, beautiful and eco-friendly business.We strongly support their request for a special use permit,so they can continue to expand their operation and directly impact the local economy, and specifically the local wedding industry. Mahalo. Ofehaeg. -1taky Michael Haley elliAk Amber Haley Hawaii Life Aloha@HaleyHawaii.com HaleyHawaii.com c l 1\ I l:i 11 4, 11 HILO University of Hawaii at Hilo College of Business& Economics 200 W. Kawili Street Hilo, Hawaii 96720 February 10th, 2020 Hawaii County Planning Commission Hawaii County, Department of Planning, 101 Pauahi St.#3 Hilo, Hawaii 96720 Dear Commissioners, This letter is to express my support for Sunshower Farms' permit application to be able to conduct agri-tourism activities at their site in HOlualoa, provided that their application meets the County's permitting standards. I support this application because I believe that the success of our local farmers is critical for the long-term sustainability of our small island. I commend Hawai'i County's Planning Commission for upholding regulations to protect the safety of our communities and the integrity of our lands. I received my doctorate in urban and regional planning so I understand the critical role that the Department of Planning plays in ensuring that minimal impacts result from commercial activities on agricultural lands. Currently, I am conducting a study, funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), to understand the challenges and opportunities for agri-tourism in Hawai'i County. While the study is still on-going, preliminary findings suggest that small farms in Hawaii are turning to agri-tourism as a strategy to supplement farm earnings to be financially sustainable. However, preliminary findings also suggest that the Department's permitting process is one of the greatest roadblocks for small farmers. While I understand the importance of the permitting process, I would like to reiterate the value of supporting our local farmers,especially our small farms.As an owner of a small farm myself, I can attest to the difficulty of being able to be economically sustainable from farming alone. Farming is hard. Making money from farming, is even harder.