HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-21 PL-SPP-2024-000061 Koohan Paik-Mander Testimony From: Koohan Paik-Mander
To: W PCtesti mono
Subject: In support of Axel Kratel"s Agri-tourism Bed&Breakfast
Date: Thursday, March 21, 2024 10:42:41 PM
To whom it may concern:
I have known Axel Kratel for about a decade through my work as a former PONC
commissioner representing Hamakua, and as an advocate of environmental restoration,
agroforestry and food sovereignty. Axel has been a tireless innovator in Hamakua, practicing
local agriculture, agroforestry and soil health for carbon sequestration.
I strongly support Axel's Bed and Breakfast application. His Bed and Breakfast will become a
vital addition to the fabric of agri-tourism in East Hawaii and add much needed economic
stimulation that is also environmentally friendly.
Small family-owned regenerative farms do not enjoy the vast subsidies that industrial,
chemical agriculture firms receive. In Hawaii, farmers have a unique opportunity to
complement their farm income with revenue from overnight guests and other agri-tourism
activities. Providing agri-tourism and bed-and-breakfast opportunities to small farmers are a
way we can support Hawaii's economy,regenerative agriculture and Hawaii's food
sovereignty.
Most small farms in the United States require a secondary income in order to make ends meet
as the income from agricultural activities is usually not enough. Axel's case is no exception. I
urge you to approve of Axel's Bed and Breakfast application so that he can continue his great
environmental stewardship.
Thank you.
Koohan Paik-Mander
In Axel's case,
"If we make no effort to change direction, we will end up where we are heading."
-- Chinese Proverb