HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-03 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Joyce Cavanaugh Testimony From: Jovice Cavanauoh
To: WPCtestimonv;Council Remote Testimony
Subject: Punalu"u Development Black Sand Beach LLC
Date: Sunday, March 3,2024 4:58:37 PM
I am writing with deeply troubling concerns about the proposed development of
beautiful Punalu'u Black Sand Beach. Over the course of the past few years, my
husband and I have watched this beach be steadily overrun by tourists, one tour bus
load after another. We own a condo in Colony 1, and worry about the Honu and
Hawksbill turtles who either nest here, rest here, and call this amazing beach and bay
their home. We are volunteers with the Malama Pono Punalu'u group and help
protect, plus answer questions about the wonderful turtles here. It is surprising how
many people venture close to the resting turtles, even though it is clearly marked by
signage to stay out.
Something I'm not seeing is a shoreline certification, with so many buildings planned
here: A Cafe only 100 feet from the beach?? Not safe! And, why allow a non coastal
dependent group of structures in an already crowded area, within 200 feet of the high
water mark? This puts people in danger! The old restaurant is a prime example of
that. The next tsunami could be right around the corner!
Another hearing must be made available on a Saturday, for Ka'u residents who work
weekdays! Blocking people from being able to share their voices at a hearing of this
extreme importance is unacceptable and unfair!
I'm not against responsible development, but the impact this development would have
on this fragile land and wildlife sanctuary, would last forever. And for what reason?
The residents of Ka'u know the answer to that. Let us be heard!
Sincerely,
J. Cavanaugh