HomeMy WebLinkAboutSPP-21-000227 T. EPSTEIN TESTIMONY (LATE) 05.17.23 From: trace epstein
To: LPCtestimonv
Subject: Testimony in support of Kona Aerial Gymnastic Team's request for SP 21-000227
Date: Wednesday, May 17,2023 11:56:25 AM
Aloha Chair DeFranco and Members of the Commission,
I am writing in strong support of the Kona Aerial Gymnastic Team's request for
Special Permit 21-000227 to ensure that our community will continue to benefit from a
program that has developed our keiki into strong athletes and leaders since I was a
kid here in Kona.
My 7-year-old daughter has been training with Kona Aerials for almost a year and a
half. In that time, I have seen her grow in physical and emotional strength,
independence, and confidence. As one of the newest members of the Kona Aerials
team, she has developed a mental toughness that has translated to other areas of her
life, and she continues to grow in strides in everything she puts her mind to. I am
certain that it is her gymnastics experience that has molded her into the well-rounded
kid she is today and am thankful for the Kona Aerials program for helping her develop
such a strong foundation.
My family and I live on agricultural land about a mile mauka from the gym. We are
strong supporters of the ag lifestyle, and I can say without hesitation that the Kona
Aerials gymnastics facility is in no way incompatible with this area. In fact, this specific
program at this central Kona location with a facility of this size fills a need for West
Hawaii that perhaps no other site could. Kona Aerials has also taken the initiative to
resolve past violations and ensure legal compliance and has continued to
demonstrate its unfettered commitment to this place and the larger community.
Failing to grant this special permit would only serve to interrupt the lives of countless
athletes and their families who rely on these programs to develop the strength and
skills that make our community stronger and better.
I humbly ask that you approve Special Permit No.21-000227 so that Kona families
can continue to enjoy the many benefits that Kona Aerial Gymnastics and the
Nakuwaina Foundation provide.
Mahalo for the opportunity to provide testimony on this important matter.
Sincerely,
Tracy Epstein (and `ohana)