HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022 Annual Report to the Mayor (12-28-2022)
Hapuʻu to Kapanaiʻa Cultural Corridor N. Kohala, Hawaiʻi
Photo Courtesy of Hamana Ventura
Michell D. RothMayorCounty ofHawai'iFinance DepartmentPROPERTY MANAGEMENT DIVISION25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1101 • Hilo, Hawai'i 96720(808)961-8234 • Fax (808) 961-8248Deanna S. SakoDirectorDiane NakagawaDeputy DirectorHamana VenturaProperty ManagerPUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL RESOURCESPRESERVATION COMMISSIONDecember 23, 2022Mayor M itch RothCounty of Hawai'i25 Aupuni StreetHilo, Hawai'i 96720Dear Mayor Roth:Attached is the 2022 Annual Report of the County of Hawai'i Public Access, OpenSpace, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission (PONC), pursuant to Section2-217 (2) of the Hawai'i County Code.The Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Presen/ation Fund (FUND)establishes a unique pathway in the County of Hawai'i giving the public the opportunityto nominate properties for Fee Simple or Conservation Easement acquisition thru theFUND. Significant lands acquired in perpetuity for the preservation and protection ofcultural and historic sites, native habitat, natural resources, public access, and openspace. It is so great to see that PONC acquisitions continue to expand in utilizingConservation Easements thereby stretching the value of the FUND, leveraging fundsfrom other sources and the many partnerships involved.This is the first time in two years that the Commission were able to resume in-personmeetings, re-connect with each other and members in the community, and it has been abusy year. The PONC Commission reviewed eight Suggestion Forms and fifteenHawai'i County is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Stewardship Grant Requests, the most Grant Requests received to date. It is evidentthat public interest and their involvement continues to grow in this program.A Permitted Interaction Group (PING) was formed to refine the Stewardship GrantApplication and create the Stewardship Grant Application Instruction Sheet to provideuseful information to guide applicants through the application process. To assist currentStewardship grantees, the PING also created the Stewardship Grant Progress Reportand Instruction Sheet to assist with reporting.Since the passage of Bill 45, the Department of Finance assumed responsibility of theStewardship Grants and have been diligently working on awarding grant monies for pastand recent years' Stewardship Grants to our hard-working stewards. It is imperativethat grant recipients receive these monies in a timely manner to ensure continuedmanagement and stewardship of these lands.The work of our Commission was possible with the tremendous support of our Countystaff. We are extremely grateful for the excellent work of Commission Secretary,Maxine Cutler, Property Manager Hamana Ventura, and Deputy Corporation CounselJean Campbetl.We are thankful for the continued support of the County of Hawai'i. We will continue towork with our communities, non-profits, and agencies to protect and preserve Hawai'i'scultural and natural resources.Mahalo Nui Loa,-..^!M ,'-\x^IAlex Kelepolo,v€hairCOMMISSION MEMBERS (DISTRICT)Deborah Chang, V. Chair (1), Alex Kelepolo, Chair (2), Shellie Bee Alien Naungayan (3),Dr. Wayne Frank (4), Deborah J. Ward (5), Jodie Rosam (6), Justin Lee (7),Cayla Crivello (8), and Diane Kanealii (9)Hawai i County is an equal opportimity provider and employer.
PREAMBLE
PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE AND NATURAL RESOURCES
PRESERVATION PROGRAM
The purpose of the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Program
(PONP) has two main focus areas. The focused areas are: 1) facilitate the process of eligible
properties for acquisition using the Preservation Fund “The Fund”, and 2) to manage these
properties with the Preservation Maintenance Fund, “PM Fund.” The authority of this program
can be found in the Hawaiʻi County Code, Chapter 2, Ariticle 42.
The Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission (PONC) is a
commission formed to assist in the process. The Commission’s purpose:
• To develop an initial island-wide prioritized list of qualifying lands worthy of preservation
and submit it to the mayor. Priorities shall be listed on an island-wide rather than district
basis. The list shall include the significance of each parcel or entitlement, identified the
reason for its priority, and its anticipated use after acquisition.
• To update this list at any time, but at least annually by December 31 of each year.
• To explore methods of funding for conservation easements or land acquisition and make
recommendations to the mayor. The commission shall give emphasis to conservation
easements or land acquisitions where the County’s contribution can be leveraged to
obtain State, Federal, and/or private FUNDs.
• To review Stewardship Grant Applications and make recommendations to the
Department of Finance of the eligible non-profit organization to provide stewarding
efforts for property purchased with the Fund.
• Continued in-person public meetings alternating between Hilo and Kona.
The program is structured in a way that supports and remains focus on the values of this
program: the people of Hawaiʻi County are the true recipients of this program, which protects
our lands from developement, numerous cultural sites, and endangered species.
The Nene or Hawaiian
Goose is the State bird,
endemic to the Hawaiian
Islands. In the 1950s, it was
close to extinction, with only
about 25 remaining
. `Io or Hawaiian Hawk is
found only on the Big Island
of Hawaii below 8,500 feet.
Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Program
2022 Annual Report to the Mayor
THE COMMISSION REPORT
The Department of Finance through its Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources
Preservation Commission (PONC) is submitting this 2022 Annual Report to the Mayor which includes
the 2022 Prioritized List of Properties that was submitted to this Commission on or before the deadline
date of January 31, 2022, according to the Hawai‘i County Code (1985), Edition 2005 Section 2-217.
This Commission is an advisory to the mayor, and its sole responsibilities are: 1) Responsible for
Annual submitting a prioritized list of properties to be considered for acquisition to the Mayor and 2)
Evaluation and make recommendations specific to PONC Stewardship Grant Applications.
In developing the 2022 Prioritized List, the Commission considered properties submitted on the
2022 Suggestion Forms, heard public testimony, reviewed communications, conducted interviews,
conducted site visits on selected suggestions, and scored accordingly to the Assessment Criteria Form.
The Commission developed its prioritized ranking order based upon reported urgency, anticipated use,
significance, the benefit to the public, special funding opportunities available for acquisition, and a
proposed management plan. This year’s total possible score based on the total number was 900. In 2015,
the Commission amended its rules to include only those properties that scored 50% or higher on the
prioritized list for consideration. In Chapter 1, there are detailed descriptions, maps, and summaries of all
eight properties scored above the 50% threshold. The commission submits to the Mayor the 2022
Prioritized List.
2022 Prioritized List:
Ranked Sugg. # Scored % Name Tax Map Key No. (3) District
1 22-03 96 Hapu’u – Kapanai’a 5-2-007:023, 026 North Kohala
2 22-02 93 Halelua 5-3-007:010 North Kohala
3 22-05 89 Lamalaloa 5-7-001:020 North Kohala
4 22-04 85 Honoipu 5-6-001:074 North Kohala
5 22-07 77 Kukuipahu-Haena 23 parcels North Kohala
6 22-06 73 Keawenui 5-8-001:009 North Kohala
7 22-01 67 Historic 88 Temples
Walk
7-6-004:003 (incls. all CPRs North Kona
8 22-08 53 Connecting the Holualoa
Royal Complex
7-6-021:016, 017 North Kona
Commission:
Council District Term ends on
Deborah Chang, Vice Chair 1 Dec. 31, 2022*
Alex Kelepolo, Chair 2 Dec. 31, 2024
Shellie Bee Allen Naungayan 3 Dec. 31, 2023
Dr. Wayne Frank 4 Dec. 31, 2022
Deborah J. Ward 5 Dec. 31, 2025
Jodie Rosam 6 Dec. 31, 2026
Justin B. Lee 7 Dec. 31, 2024
Cayla Crivello 8 Dec. 31, 2025*
Diane Kanealii 9 Dec. 31, 2025
*Eligible for new full-term.
Commission Meetings:
For the calendar year 2021, commission meetings were held live on YouTube, until gathering
restrictions was lifted, public in-person meetings continued. The meetings are defined below.
Regular Meetings Special Meetings
January 10 (virtual) July 11, Hilo (in-person) February 14 (Virtual)
March 14 (Postponed to April 4) September 12, Kona (in-person) September 26, Hilo (in-person)
April 4, Hilo (in-person) November 14, Hilo (in-person)
May 9, Kona (in-person)
Stewardship Grants:
This past year, the Commission received from the Department of Finance (15) 2023 Stewardship
Grant Applications and processed each application. This process includes review of the application, conduct
interviews with the applicants, heard in-person public testimony, and read written testimony.
Upon review of the applications, this commission expressed many concerns and reservations about
ease of using the new grant applications; semi and annual reports not submitted on time; management plan
grant requests; the applicants issue with complying with HRS 343 or/and SMA Permitting; updating
treatment plans; grant funding cycle; project costs; and the delay of funding past approved grants. The
PONC was able to complete a grant funding recommendation to the Department of Finance.
Suggestion Form
There were no new revisions to the Suggestion Form. The last revision was approved on Oct. 14,
2020. The Department of Finance received eight 2022 Suggestion Forms from February 1, 2021 to
January 31, 2022, the deadline period. The Commission ranked all eight nominations and all eight made
the 2022 Prioritized List. (Chapter 1)
Assessment Criteria Form:
The Commission made no updates to the Assessment Criteria Form. The last revision was done
on November 15, 2018 (Chapter 2). This Assessment Criteria Form was utilized to assess the
suggestion forms received during the aforementioned time.
Commission and Community Recommendations and Concerns:
The following is a listing of recommendations and concerns identified by the Commission for the
upcoming year:
♦ Revise the 2024 Stewardship Grant Fill-in Application and instructions.
♦ The PONC encourages local non-profits in each district to apply for stewardship grants.
Especially for properties purchases with the Preservation FUND, in their districts.
♦ Update the Rule of Practice and Procedures of the Hawaiʻi County PONC.
♦ Publicize and encourage the public to submit 2023 Suggestion Forms by January 31, 2022.
♦ Post newly revised fill-in 2024 Stewardship Grant applications to the Department of Finance
before the July 2023 Public Notice
♦ Encourages everyone to be safe, wear masks, and live well.
THE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE REPORTS
The Acquisition Status Report
In compliance with the Hawaiʻi County Charter 10-15, the annual acquisition status report
consists of financial information on funding easements and land acquisitions, the total number of acreage.
The FUND detail report is found on the Countyʻs website public folders.
The County completed two acquisitions. First, the fee simple acquisition of Kapalama, North
Kohala. With approx. 18.91 acres in North Kohala preserving the entire Kapalama Heiau, numerous
cultural sites, and recreational areas. Secondly, a Conservation Easement with Ala Kahakai Trails
Association for Kiolaka’a, Ka’u. The property consists of five parcels for a total of 1,843.047 acres.
To date, the County has acquired 10,269.947 acres consisting of approx. 5,537.487 acres in
Conservation Easements and 4,732.46 acres in fee simple, which will remain in open space protection in
perpetuity.
Stewardship Grants:
This year the Department of Finance received 15 Grant applications and had the PONC to evaluate
them and report their findings in a recommendation before December 31st.
During this calendar year, the Department of Finance dispersed nearly $400,000 for the 2021
Stewardship Grant Funding with an additional $125,000 by end of December 2022. The communication to
the Hawaiʻi County Council for the 2022-23 Stewardship Grant communication was scheduled and sent for
approval. Further review of the Hawaiʻi County Code 10-16(g) 1-13, relating to grant funding allowable
expeditures relating to administration costs and fees. The H.C.C. 10-16(g) 1-13 did not list “administration
costs or fees” as an allowable expense, therefore, grant requests for funding will not be allowed.
Conclusion:
It is important to thank the members of our PONC Commission for their valuable service on this
special and unique commission. Our island is incredibly rich in cultural heritage, consiting of thousands
of acres of historical sites, pristine native forests and coastlines. Within our island we are hosts to varities
of rare flora and fauna, and endangered species. It is vital that we continue to support this unique
program.
The Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Program provides the means
to protect and preserve in perpetuity these special places; providing our future generation opportunities to
learn about pivotal events that have shaped our county, recreationa areas, and moreso a connection to our
past.
COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I
PUBLIC ACCESS, OPEN SPACE, AND NATURAL
RESOURCES PRESERVATION PROGRAM
2022 Annual Report to the Mayor
2022 Prioritized List
Summaries
Report of the Commissioners
December 28, 2022
PRIORITY #1. HAPUʻU TO KAPANAIʻA CULTURAL CORRIDOR (Scored 96 %)
TMK Nos.: (3) 5-2-007:023 and 026*, consisting of approx.. 42.5 acres of the ʻĀʻamakaō and Hālawa ahupua’a in the District of North Kohala, Hawaiʻi *Update: parcel 026 escrow closed on November 15, 2022.
Located in the heart of Kamehameha I’s kulāiwi (homeland) and his ‘āina pono‘ī (the personally
owned lands that literally nurtured Kamehameha’s physical and spiritual strength), the Hapuʻu to
Kapanaiʻa Cultural Corridor is of tremendous historical and cultural significance to the people of
Hawaiʻi.
Anticipated Use
• The entire site is subject to high public recreational use: fishing, surfing, and gathering.
• Two of the most significant heiau are on this land: Hale o Kā‘ili, Kamehameha’s first
heiau, dedicated to Kūkā‘ilimoku; and Hale Kapālama, the largest platform pavement
heiau on the island of Hawai‘i.
• It is a prime location for providing educational and cultural programs, focused on the
Kamehameha I era and on early kula gulch settlements.
• A lateral public trail along the coastline and mauka-makai (both pedestrian and
vehicular) access along pre-existing roads would open the area to low-impact use and
facilitate preservation/restoration efforts.
Summary Report by Ms. Jodie Rosam, PONC Commissioner
Significance
• Preserving this land would save not only the structural remains of two very significant
heiau, burial sites, and historical remnants of one of the earliest Hawaiian settlements;
• The area is prominent in oral histories as the place that nurtured Kamehameha I in
physical and spiritual growth.
Special Opportunity for Acquisition and Management
• All four owners have expressed an interest in a preservation sale.
• Community groups are in contact with the Ala Kahakai National Trail System and the
County Planning Department to help protect the land.
• Groups have pledged to work with other private and public entities to preserve access
and historic sites and to replant the cliff tops with native plants to help control erosion.
Both photos courtesy of Ms. Toni Withington
PRIORITY #2: HALELUA
(Scored 93%)
TMK No.. (3) 5-3-007:010 consisting of approx. 50.312 acres of the
Halelua ahupuaʽa in the District of North Kohala, Hawaiʻi
Halelua is familiarly known as Kamehameha I “stomping ground.” This land includes remnants
of Kamehameha’s use: O‘hau heiau; a terraced lo‘i; noni orchards, and other important cultural
sites. In addition, its shoreline and crystal-clear waters are frequently used by the endangered
Hawaiian Monk Seals. Moreover, Halelua is also the arrival and departure site for flocks of mi-
grating Kōlea (Pacific Golden Plover).
Anticipated Use
● Public Outdoor Recreation: With its stunningly beautiful recreation areas and crystal-
clear waters, Halelua has pristine tide pools as well as areas for shoreline and offshore
fishing, cliff top hiking, and picnicking. The coastline is both an easy and safe to walk,
with or without a trail. Halelua provides a multitude of recreational activities which in-
clude hiking, jogging, fishing, and gathering of food and plants for subsistence as well as
for cultural and religious practices.
● Education: Halelua’ s multiple cultural sites can serve as hands-on classrooms and
host school groups of all ages to serve as a study area for a multitude of educational ac-
tivities, including Hawaiian arts and crafts, farming and fishing practices, fresh water re-
sources and to learn about the early history of the Hawaiian monarchy.
● Historical and Cultural Importance: Significant pre-contact cultural sites found at Hale-
lua include O‘hau heiau; eight lo‘i kalo; and the ‘auwai (ditch canal). Halelua was the
center of Kamehameha the Great’s direct land stewardship, situated between his family
lands at Hapu‘u/Kapanai‘a which hold taro patches, a boat ramp, and the swimming
pools he constructed at Kauhola.
o Archaeological studies conducted by the University of Hawai‘i and the University
of Arizona revealed this land was used by indigenous peoples extending back to
1200 A.D. The research and discoveries by these universities yielded important
information about the lives of the earliest Hawaiians in the Kula gulch system of
Kohala.
● Protection of Natural Resources: Halelua hosts flocks of migrating kolea (Pacific
Golden Plover), and its’ shoreline is often frequented by the endangered Hawaiian
Monk seals. Furthermore, the 2006 UH Marine Water Quality study stressed the critical
importance of these lands to preserve and maintain the marine water quality of North
Kohala.
o In addition to the critical importance of maintaining marine water quality and pre-
serving Halelua’s majestic shorelines with coastal views of unsurpassed beauty,
it is imperative to understand Halelua’s importance as a geographic link to previ-
ously preserved lands that flank both sides.
o The acquisition of Halelua is part of a strategy to preserve and protect the Kulā
Iwi O Kamehameha (Kamehameha’s Homeland), a four and a half mile stretch of
coastline, comprising eight parcels. Five of these parcels have already been
preserved, with two more in process of being purchased. Halelua is the last re-
maining parcel to complete the preservation of the Kula Iwi.
● Protection of Agricultural Land: After a recent site visit to Halelua by Commis-
sioner Diane Kaneali’i, stressed the importance of Halelua as fertile agricultural
land that is ideal for preservation. Commissioner Kaneali’i reported:
“The land appears to be very fertile, evidenced by a wide variety of strong,
healthy plants, including Ti plants, Kuku‘i & Milo trees as well as beautiful
Lauhala patches where young hala are thriving, not to mention many other
native plant species. . . . These lands are part of the ulu belt, making it perfect
for restoration and cultivation of ulu, kalo, ‘ohi‘a ‘ai [Mountain Apple], and
other traditional crops and plants to increase our island’s food security.”
Significance and Management
● Community Support: Important groups such as Hawai’i Island Land Trust; Kohala Lihi-
kai, Inc.; and Moku O’ Keawe Land Conservancy have written letters of support for the
purchase of Halelua.
● Management/Maintenance Support: There is a 40-year documented history of com-
munity support working to preserve these open spaces, free of development. Nine addi-
tional organizations were identified as willing to participate.
● Urgency: Listed for sale.
Summary Report by Ms. Diane Kanealii, PONC Commissioner
Special Opportunity for Acquisition
● The owner is both willing and anxious to sell.
Strengths and Weaknesses
● Endangered Species: Monk Seals
● Migratory Species: Kolea (Pacific Golden Plover) arrive and depart from Halelua
● Historically, Halelua was the center of Kamehameha’s direct land stewardship.
● Halelua geographically links preserved lands on both sides. The proposed acquisition of
Halelua is part of a strategy to preserve the Kulā Iwi ‘O Kamehameha (Kamehameha’s
Homeland).
● Halelua is fertile land, where ulu, kalo, ‘ohi ‘a ‘ai (Mountain Apple) and other traditional
food crops are growing, and many other agricultural plants may be cultivated.
● Any weaknesses is unknown at this time.
Both photos curtesy of Ms. Toni Withington
PRIORITY #3: LAMALALOA
(Scored 89%)
TMK No. (3) 5-7-001:020 consisting of approx. 35.345 acres of the
Pao’o 1 and Lamaloloa ahupua’a in the District of North Kohala, Hawai’i
Anticipated Use
• Current uses that will continue with a preservation purchase includes biking, hiking,
shoreline fishing, picnicking, and recreation.
• Open Space for historical education, environmental, and research actives.
• Hawaiian cultural practices and gathering.
• Coastal recreation.
Significance
• The land adjoins Lapakahi State Historical Park on one side and State land surrounding
the County-acquired open space parcel at Pao'o on the other. Purchase of this land
would provide a continuous publicly owned coastline from Akoni Pule Highway to the
ocean for a lineal span of almost 4 miles of coastline between Mahukona and
Kaupalaoa.
• This link in the corridor is studded with archaeological sites, including the Ala Loa and
has been relatively untouched by humans since the early 1900s except passively by the
people of Kohala who continue to use it as a valuable site for fishing and gathering.
• The Hawaiian Hoary Bat and Hawaiian Monk Seal frequent the coast.
Summary Report by Dr. Wayne Frank, PONC Commissioner
• There is a presence of native vegetation: akulikuli, hinahina, ilima, naupaka, and
pauohiiaka.
Special Opportunity for Acquisition and Management
• The property is listed for sale on the open market.
• Kohala Lihikai has agreed to work with the landowner in seeking additional resources to
assist in the purchase. The Hawaiian Islands Land Trust has offered assistance.
• Many community groups have offered assistance in managing Lamaloloa: North Kohala
Community Access Group, Kohala Lihikai, Kohala Senior Athletic Association, Kohala
National Guard Alumni, Malama Kohala Kahakai, Maika’i Kamakani O Kohala, Kohala
Historic and Preservation Group, Ka Makani O Kohala Ohana, and Malama Na
Washington Pana O Kohala.
Photos courtesy by Ms. Toni Withington
PRIORITY #4: HONOIPU
(Scored 85%)
TMK No. (3) 5-6-001:074, consisting of approx. 17.547 acres of the
Honoipu and `Upolu ahupua’a in the District of North Kohala, Hawai`i
View of Honoipu Bay taken
from the top of Paliakamoa,
looking northeast.
(Photo courtesy of Keith
Wallis)
Looking southwest at
Paliakamoa, the cliff that
inspired the well-known
song of the same name,
composed by Ellen
Kalaukoa Naipo.
(Photo courtesy of Keith
Wallis)
Honoipu Bay is known for its calm seas, sheltered from the strong `Āpa`apa`a wind of North
Kohala, and a favored canoe staging and landing site in ancient times up to the present.
Honoipu has been (and continues to be) a favorite fishing, hiking, canoeing, boating, whale-
watching, and surfing spot for generations of island residents.
Historically, it was an important harbor during the early days of Kohala’s sugar plantations until
abandoned in 1912 when Mahukona Harbor and its convenient railroad became the primary
shipping port. There are at least two
historic shipwrecks in the bay, and a
monument honoring the Puerto Rican
immigrants who landed at Honoipu in
1901 is next to the parking area.
Honoipu is an area of spectacular
natural beauty, pristine ocean waters,
and offers the closest views of Maui
from Hawai`i Island across the
`Alenuihāhā Channel. Its natural
conditions attract the endangered
Hawaiian Monk Seal to the bay, and
it would be a prime location for
marine studies.
Anticipated Use
• Generations of Kohala residents have traditionally accessed the ocean at Honoipu by
using the Old Coast Guard Road to reach a parking area within walking distance of the
shoreline. However, the Old Coast Guard Road is owned by the federal government,
and the portion of the road and entire parking area that are key to enabling shoreline
public access are on privately owned land.
• Currently, public access to the shoreline on TMK No. (3) 5-6-001:074 is at the discretion
of the private landowner. Thus, there is no legal public access easement to get to the
parking area.
TMK No. (3) 5-6-001:074
(Outlined in blue)
Legend:
Parking Area
Continuation of the Old Coast
Guard Road to the parking
area
Old Coast Guard Road
Summary Report by Ms. Deborah Chang, PONC Commissioner
Significance and Management
• Acquisition of the privately owned portion of the access to the shoreline, whether by fee
simple or easement, would ensure that this historically, culturally, and environmentally
significant coastal area will remain open to the public in perpetuity.
• Public acquisition is widely supported by the community. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Kohala
Lihikai (consisting of community groups: Mālama Kohala Kahakai, Maika`i Kamakani `O
Kohala, Ka Makani `O Kohala `Ohana, and Mālama Nā Wahi Pana `O Kohala), the
Hawaiian Islands Land Trust (d.b.a., Hawai`i Land Trust), Moku `O Keawe Land
Conservancy, and the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail have expressed support for the
acquisition. Kohala Lihikai, the North Kohala Community Access Group, the Hawaiian
Islands Land Trust (HILT), and the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail (NHT) are
interested in participating in stewardship of the lands.
Special Opportunity for Acquisition
• The landowners are in support of keeping the Old Coast Guard Road, the parking area,
and the lateral shoreline trails open for public use on a permanent basis. They are aware
and supportive of the proposed acquisition for permanent public access to the bay,
which will facilitate access to the Nā Ala Hele and Ala Kahakai NHT shoreline trails.
• Representatives of the landowner have met with Kohala groups, the Ala Kahakai NHT,
the State’s Nā Ala Hele, and County’s PONC about this nomination and are open to
further dialogue.
• HILT is a potential funding partner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths Weaknesses ▪ Strong community support for the acquisition has
been consistent and sustained over more than the
last 10 years.
▪ Federal (Ala Kahakai NHT) and State (Nā Ala Hele)
trail programs are invested in continued public access
in this area. There is good potential for matching
federal, state, county, and private funding for
acquisition and management.
▪ The landowners are receptive to dedicating a
parking area and roadway on their land to shoreline
public access in perpetuity.
▪ Ownership of the Old Coast
Guard Road, which connects the
subject 17.547-acre property to
the main Akoni Pule Highway,
remains with the federal
government, and the road is not
maintained.
PRIORITY #5: KUKUIPAHU – HAʻENA CORRIDOR
(Scored 77%)
TMK Nos. (3) 5-6-001:013, 016, 018, 042, 049, and 089 to 107, consisting of
approx. 1,456.25 acres of Ha`ena, Awalua, and Kukuipahu ahupua`a
in the District of North Kohala, Hawai’i
Kukuipahu-Ha`ena lands are a critical part of the scenic open entrance to Kohala, replete with
700 years of pre-contact and historic sites instrumental in the rise of Kamehameha the Great,
due to the managed agricultural and coastal fishing resources and enjoyed by generations of
community members.
Anticipated Use
• Public access for fishing, traditional gathering, hiking, picnicking, camping,
• Excellent example of the Kohala Field System that fed a large population sustainably.
Unstudied intact cultural and historic sites, canoe sheds, village structures, agricultural
sites, coastal wells and shrines are rich resources to be investigated.
• Provides an important buffer between residential development and the ocean, protecting
reefs and aquatic resources. Runoff from development can affect near-shore
ecosystems such as coral reefs.
• Provides a refuge for the area’s endangered plants and animals, protects from rock theft
and other near shore resources.
Summary Report by Mr. Justin Lee, PONC Commissioner
Significance and Management
• Strong community support for the acquisition and N Kohala Community Development
Plan supports acquisition for long standing strategy of preservation
• Numerous community organizations have stepped up for long-term maintenance
• Ownership by Parker Ranch after 2017 foreclosure, and future development plans are
unknown.
Special Opportunity for Acquisition
• Community has discussed County purchase with owner.
• Kohala Lihikai, Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail and Hawaiian Island Land Trust are
willing to assist in the leveraging purchase.
• Fee simple is anticipated
Strengths and Weaknesses
• Would extend 15 miles of contiguous coastal corridor already protected
• Heavily forested inland, trails and coastal access
• Endangered Hoary Bat, Hawaiian Monk Seal, endemic plant species
• Filtration of water entering coastline protects fish and coastal gathering
• No known weaknesses at this time.
Both photo’s courtesy of Ms. Toni Withington.
PRIORITY #6: KEAWENUI
(Scored 73%)
TMK No (3) 5-8-001:009, consisting of approx. 166.046 acres of the
Kehena 2 ahupua’a in the District of North Kohala, Hawai’i
Protected by its relative isolation, low impact land uses, and by one of the largest kiawe forests
on the island of Hawai‘i, Keawenui remains an area that is rich in historical, cultural, and
recreational beauty. With its pristine coves, small bays, and abundant archaeological sites,
Keawenui has been used continually by the public for camping, hiking, walking, fishing, and
gathering. However, its most significant historical and cultural values lie in the abundant and
intact pre-contact and historic sites that are located all over the site. These include: canoe
houses, shrines, home sites, and burials which have been identified in a Bishop Museum report
(Sinoto and Schilt 1980).
Anticipated Use:
● Public access for hiking, fishing, picnicking, and recreation
● Cultural education and gathering
● Preservation of cultural and natural resources
● Preservation of ocean front property for public use
Significance and Management
● Many groups are interested in helping acquire and manage Keawenui: North Kohala
Community Access Group, Kohala Lihikai, the Ala Kahakai National Trails System, the
Ala Kahakai Trail Association, Kohala Senior Athletic Association, Kohala National
Guard Alumni, Mālama Kohala Kahakai, Maikaʻi Kamakani O Kohala, Kohala Historic
and Preservation Group, Ka Makani O Kohala Ohana, and Mālama Na Wahi Pana O
Kohala.
● There is a sense of urgency since the owner has proposed several uses of the land and
for years has locked it to public access.
● Keawenui is an important part of the entire vision to protect the North Kohala Coastline,
as outlined in the North Kohala Community Development Plan.
● According to a letter from Bishop Estate’s archaeologists (Sinoto, Schilt 1986), the area
possesses “. . . an exceptionally large number of well-preserved archaeological sites
and site complexes [which] constitute important cultural resources. Both from
community and scientific regards, these resources as a whole are outstanding based on
their excellent state of preservation, the scientific and cultural information they hold, their
potential for public interpretation, and their manifestation of the heritage of living people.”
Special Opportunity for Aquisition
● Current market values, low inventory and aggressive buyers also add to the urgency.
● The parcel is bounded by State and Kamehameha Schools land. It is part of an overall
strategy to preserve the North Kohala Coastline as defined in the North Kohala
Community Development Plan (Ordinance 08-151) for its historic, cultural, and
recreational values.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
● Strong Organizational Capacity and Community Support
● Integral part of the North Kohala Community Development Plan
● Lands to the North and South are protected
● No known weaknesses.
Summary Report by Ms. Shellie Bee Allen Naungayan
PRIORITY #7: HISTORIC 88 TEMPLES WALK
(Scored 67%)
TMK No. (3) 7-6-004:003 (including all CPRs), consisting of approx. 2.488 acres
of the Hōlualoa 1&2 ahupuaʻa in the District of North Kona, Hawaiʻi
Anticipated Use
• A conservation easement (CE) which includes a safe walking path and pedestrian
access to public venues and other destinations in Hōlualoa Village. Sugg. 22-01
would be Phase 1 of what would ultimately comprise of a linear three-mile Safe
Routes to School pathway connecting neighborhoods, Hōlualoa Elementary
School and The Imin Center.
• Opportunity for community involvement through recreation, education “an outdoor
classroom” and social interaction.
• Restoration of the historic walls, walk/pathway and Shikoku Pilgrimage Monument.
Significance and Management
• Strong community support.
• Located in the center of the traditional Kūāhewa Field System famous for the
agriculture systems of traditional Hawaiʻi. Stone features and small walls exist on
property that were once used with agriculture systems to slow and channel water.
This parcel was once part of the parcel makai (westward) which is still the home of
Kona Koyasan Daishiji Mission established in 1925.
Summary Report by Ms. Alex Kelepolo, PONC Chair
• Hōlualoa Village ʻOhana will be the primary stewardship organization and partner
with Pūlama Ia Kona Heritage Preservation Council and Kona Koyasan Daishiji
Mission for long-term management and maintenance.
Special Opportunity for Acquisition
• Landowner is willing to participate in CE process.
• The property is a “flag” lot which includes a driveway containing access easements
to three adjoining properties including the Kona Koyasan Daishiji Mission.
• Grants received from Historic Hawaiʻi Foundation and the Freeman Foundation for
restoration of the 97-year old Shikoku Pilgrimage Monument.
Photos courtesy by Ms. Antu Harvey and Ms. Alex Kelepolo
PRIORITY #8: Connecting the Holualoa Royal Complex
(Scored 53%)
TMK No. (3) 7-6-021:016 and 017, consisting of approx.. 68.84 total acres
in Holualoa, North Kona, Hawai;i.
Anticipated Use
• Property links the Walua Trail and the ancient Kealakowa'a Heiau of the Sadie Seymour
Botanical Gardens with the Kealakowa’a trail, providing recreational and cultural access
mauka to makai. U.S. Geological survey identified an ancient trail running the entire
length of the property, mauka to makai in 1927. The trail was mapped again in 1936, by
U. S. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
These historical trails are intended to be protected for the benefit of the public.
• Access is from Kuakini Highway and the neighboring subdivisions, and numerous
agricultural terraces and archaeological sites could be used as a part of a living
classroom
• Important for its watershed, some parts of land are susceptible to real estate
development.
Significance and Management
• This 70 acre open-space buffer between dense urban developments on three sides, with
potential public access mauka from the Kuakini Highway, linking two established
historically and recreationally important local amenities, the Walua Trail and Sadie
Summary Report by Ms. Deborah J. Ward, PONC Commissioner
Seymour Botanical Gardens. It features historically important archeological structures,
lava tube burial, agricultural terracing dating back to pre-Contact era to Historic era
agriculture, and habitat for native hoary bat, native ‘io (hawk) and native moth.
• There are two major drainages on the properties, thus limiting the use of the land for
development, as only a small portion is not prone to flooding.
• Members of the community are reported to be willing to provide long term management,
apply for grants and other means to sustain and restore trails and historical amenities.
Special Opportunity for Acquisition
• The property is open to a fee simple purchase and/or a conservation easement.
However, the landowner is not a willing seller at this time.
• The zoning extension of record to develop this land has expired and this land could
become available on short notice.
• Applicant has sought no other funding partners
Strengths and Weaknesses
• Acquisition of open space corridor in a densely developed urban cityscape
• Protection of historic trails, sites and agricultural terracing. Trail along rock wall has not
been verified.
• Protection of rare, threatened and endangered species
• Protection of existing watershed, including two flood prone drainages
• Presence of non-native plants would require clearing to uncover archeological features
Photo and Map courtesy of Ms. Deborah J. Ward