2024-03-06 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Theresa Kline Opposition Testimony

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From: Theresa Kline To: W PCtesti mono Subject: Punalu'u Date: Wednesday, March 6,2024 2:02:46 PM County of Hawaii -Windward Planning Commission (March 7th 2024 Meeting) Testimony in OPPOSITION of the Black Sand Beach LLC Application for an SMA(PL-SMA-2023- 000046) Aloha Commissioners, Mahalo for your time and efforts as part of the County of Hawaii Windward Planning Commission. I am writing to share my testimony that I strongly OPPOSE development for the Black Sand Beach LLC Application for an SMA(PL-SMA-2023-000046). I have two main reasons for my OPPOSITION of this application: 1 The application does not meet the requirements of the related governing legislature (HRS Chapter 205-26(2)(a)). HRS Chapter 205-26(2)(a) notes that an application must demonstrate that the development will not have any substantial adverse environmental or ecological effect, except as such adverse effect is minimized to the extent practicable and clearly outweighed by public health, safety or compelling public interests. A new and comprehensive environmental impact study needs to be completed along with an updated shore assessment before any conclusions can be made on the true environmental or ecological effects of development at Punalu'u. 2 The application lacks a comprehensive understanding of the significant cultural and socio- economic aspects that hold utmost importance to native Hawaiians and long-time residents of Punalu'u. While acknowledging the intention of progress and revitalization, the application fails to demonstrate a sustained and overall benefit to the native Hawaiians and long-time residents who have nurtured Punalu'u for generations. It does not provide evidence of how sustainable economic benefits will be achieved, such as creating a diverse range of skilled labor jobs with living wages that enable local families to thrive. Additionally, the application does not outline a plan for the proper preservation of cultural practices and sacred sites, ensuring their perpetual care and monitoring by knowledgeable stewards. I am personally tied to Punalu'u through friends' familial lines as their family has inhabited and cared for a portion of Punalu'u for over 80 years and across 4 generations. It is my hope that in opposing this proposed development application, we as a community will be able to work together to find a better and more balanced solution between progress, revitalization, and preservation. Mahalo for your consideration, Theresa A. Kline