Laserfiche WebLink
From: D C <br /> To: WPCtestimonv;Council Remote Testimony <br /> Subject: Punalu"u <br /> Date: Tuesday, March 5,2024 3:44:03 PM <br /> To whom it may concern, <br /> I oppose Black Sands Beach LLC's proposal to develop in Punalu'u. This is my testimony. <br /> First, I strongly urge that the County hold another hearing on a Saturday so working residents <br /> of Ka'u can testify. <br /> -I strongly urge for an Environmental Impact Statement(EIS). <br /> -I strongly urge an updated Shoreline Assessment for the tide's setback& new high <br /> watermark. <br /> -I call for a Shoreline Certification, especially when 915 on the proposed Village Diagram <br /> shows a Beach Club Cafe 100' from the beach. <br /> -I strongly urge an adequate disaster mitigation plan. <br /> -I strongly urge a burial treatment plan& honor to the Hawaiian culture& their Kahunas' <br /> (ancestors')remains. <br /> -I ask that the County fund stewardship programs to Malama (care for) the `Aina (land), <br /> including extending the boat ramp so fisherman can assist in monitoring the shoreline& it's <br /> critical habitat for the Honu (turtles). <br /> -I ask that the County consider our quality of water production& address our current water <br /> situation (e.x. Fire Hydrants neglected, water tank leaking in two places,waste water). <br /> Further points to consider: <br /> -I remind you the importance of accountability in following the CDP guidelines. <br /> -With the proposal of a resort, 225 residential & short stay units, golf course,retail stores & <br /> commercial center-there would inevitably be an increase in land tax,making it next to <br /> impossible for locals to stay on their homeland. <br /> -Allowing development that is not coastal dependent is harmful to the wildlife and humans <br /> that inhabit the space. This is irresponsible planning and high liability. <br /> -There are a number of native, endangered species that reside within the proposed <br /> development confines. Including Hawksbill sea turtles, green sea turtles, Hawaiian monk <br /> seals,native bees & orange-black damselflies as well as the endemic, endangered nene <br /> (Hawaiian Goose). Development would drastically damage their livelihood, and consequently, <br /> ours. <br /> -It's here ancestors are laid to rest,where locals are listening to their legacies,where their <br /> sewage system is leaking into the ocean,where a changing climate &potential for <br /> overpopulation puts an already fragile ecosystem & economy into threat. Combined with no <br /> disaster mitigation plan, the urgency to reevaluate the approval of a permit to develop here is <br /> evident. <br /> Thank you for taking the time to hear the community's concerns on developing this cherished <br /> & dependable land, and taking immediate action to preserve the breathtaking environment of <br /> Punalu'u and Ka'u. For the wild, for humanity. <br /> David A. Christian <br />