HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-06 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Sonni Schwartzbach Opposition Testimony From: Sonni Schwartzbach
To: W PCtesti mono
Subject: Opposition testimony for Punaluu development
Date: Wednesday, March 6,2024 9:01:28 PM
Aloha to the Members of the Westward Planning Committee,
I am a resident of Hilo and I strongly oppose the proposed development in the Punaluu area of
Ka'u. I am asking that Black Sand Beach LLC NOT be granted a permit for development of
these lands.
It is evident that this is an area of great cultural significance and developing this area would
cause undue harm to Native Hawaiian residents who have maintained cultural practices here
and may also have the bones of their ancestors buried at this site. This is also an area of great
ecological sensitivity, and development of any kind comes with environmental risks that can
be difficult to mitigate, even with strict precautions.
Our island's climates and ecosystems are precious and are already stressed by the effects of
climate change. Development creates more carbon emissions that can continue to endanger
wildlife, change weather patterns, and affect native flora and fauna. We see this happening in
real time in North Kona which has grown drier and hotter through the years, resulting in
an increased risk for wildfires.
On a final note, many in office talk about diversifying our industries and moving away from
relying on tourism for job creation and income. Denying this permit would serve as a concrete
example of how our elected officials are acting on that promise and acting in our best
interests.
Mahalo,
Sonni Schwartzbach
808-987-5072
sonni shine 1214(a4uma� il.com