HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-05 PL-SMA-2023-000046 David A. Christian Opposition Testimony From: D C
To: WPCtestimonv;Council Remote Testimony
Subject: Punalu"u
Date: Tuesday, March 5,2024 3:44:03 PM
To whom it may concern,
I oppose Black Sands Beach LLC's proposal to develop in Punalu'u. This is my testimony.
First, I strongly urge that the County hold another hearing on a Saturday so working residents
of Ka'u can testify.
-I strongly urge for an Environmental Impact Statement(EIS).
-I strongly urge an updated Shoreline Assessment for the tide's setback& new high
watermark.
-I call for a Shoreline Certification, especially when 915 on the proposed Village Diagram
shows a Beach Club Cafe 100' from the beach.
-I strongly urge an adequate disaster mitigation plan.
-I strongly urge a burial treatment plan& honor to the Hawaiian culture& their Kahunas'
(ancestors')remains.
-I ask that the County fund stewardship programs to Malama (care for) the `Aina (land),
including extending the boat ramp so fisherman can assist in monitoring the shoreline& it's
critical habitat for the Honu (turtles).
-I ask that the County consider our quality of water production& address our current water
situation (e.x. Fire Hydrants neglected, water tank leaking in two places,waste water).
Further points to consider:
-I remind you the importance of accountability in following the CDP guidelines.
-With the proposal of a resort, 225 residential & short stay units, golf course,retail stores &
commercial center-there would inevitably be an increase in land tax,making it next to
impossible for locals to stay on their homeland.
-Allowing development that is not coastal dependent is harmful to the wildlife and humans
that inhabit the space. This is irresponsible planning and high liability.
-There are a number of native, endangered species that reside within the proposed
development confines. Including Hawksbill sea turtles, green sea turtles, Hawaiian monk
seals,native bees & orange-black damselflies as well as the endemic, endangered nene
(Hawaiian Goose). Development would drastically damage their livelihood, and consequently,
ours.
-It's here ancestors are laid to rest,where locals are listening to their legacies,where their
sewage system is leaking into the ocean,where a changing climate &potential for
overpopulation puts an already fragile ecosystem & economy into threat. Combined with no
disaster mitigation plan, the urgency to reevaluate the approval of a permit to develop here is
evident.
Thank you for taking the time to hear the community's concerns on developing this cherished
& dependable land, and taking immediate action to preserve the breathtaking environment of
Punalu'u and Ka'u. For the wild, for humanity.
David A. Christian
"The further we get from the natural world, the more confused we feel"