HomeMy WebLinkAboutPL-SMA-2023-000038 01.17.24 Council Member Inaba Opposition DISTRIBUTED AT LPC 1-18-24 HEARING
Item#3 Kona Hawaii Development LLC
-17-24 Council Member Inaba Opposition
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Dr. Holeka Goro Inaba Office: (808)323-4280
Council Member, District 8,N. Kona °�' Email:holeka.inaba@hawaiicounty.gov
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HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL
County of Hawai'i
West Hawai'i Civic Center, Bldg.A
74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy.
Kailua-Kona, Hawai'i 96740
January 17, 2024
Hawaii County Leeward Planning Commission
Via Email: LPCtestimony@hawaiicounty_gov
Re: Opposition to Applicant Kona Hawaii Development,LLC PL-SMA-2023-000038
For a Special Management Area Use Permit to develop a 100-room hotel on a 1.76 acre
parcel located at 75-5868 A1i`i Drive,TMK: 3/7-5-18-11
Hearing: Thursday,January 18, 2024 at 9:30 a.m.—WHCC Council Chambers
Aloha Chair DeFranco and Members of the Leeward Planning Commission,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to PL-SMA-2023-000038,which seeks to grant a
Special Management Area Use Permit for the development of a 100-room hotel. I believe that approving
this permit would have significant negative consequences for the community,particularly in terms of
traffic congestion, an already inadequate parking situation, and potential adverse impacts on the
surrounding environment.
Firstly,the proposed hotel development raises serious concerns about traffic management in the
area.A 100-room hotel is likely to attract a substantial number of visitors,resulting in increased traffic
flow and congestion. The existing infrastructure is not be equipped to handle such a surge in vehicles,
leading to inconvenience for local residents and compromising road safety.
In addition to the traffic concerns,the inadequacy of parking facilities associated with the
proposed development is alarming. Insufficient parking spaces would not only inconvenience hotel guests
but also exacerbate parking challenges for residents in the vicinity. This may lead to a spillover of
vehicles into surrounding areas,further burdening the community with parking-related issues.
Furthermore,I am deeply concerned about the potential adverse environmental impacts that could
arise from the construction and operation of the proposed hotel. It is crucial to thoroughly consider these
environmental concerns before granting any permits for development.
I urge the Leeward Planning Commission to carefully evaluate the long-term implications of PL-
SMA-2023-000038 on the community,particularly in terms of traffic,parking, and the environment. It is
essential to prioritize the well-being of residents and the sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem over
the immediate economic benefits that the hotel development may bring.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I trust that the Commission will make a decision that
reflects the best interests of our community that ensures responsible and sustainable development.
Sincerely,
DR.HOLEKA GORO INABA, Council Member
HGI.wpb District 8,North Kona