HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-10 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Jeffrey Hansel Opposition Testimony From: Jeff Hansel
To: W PCtesti mony
Subject: Testimony
Date: Sunday,March 10, 2024 11:33:44 PM
Please deny the Shoreline Management Area/SMA permit extension for Black Sands Beach
LLC at Punalu'u.
The egregious idea of development at Black Sands will threaten honu (turtle)nesting grounds,
sanctuary for monk seals and for many endangered and threatened species of plants, animals,
sea life and trees.
I have personally seen honu resting on the beach at Black Sands.
Clearly, development(initial construction and longterm environmental alterations as a result)
will negatively affect the honu and their sustainability as a species.
Such a development will negatively affect the atmosphere of the area for tourists, as well as
local inhabitants.
It's a bad idea and should not be allowed.
It's my belief kanaka Hawaii (Hawaiian persons) iwi (ancestral remains) are buried in the
sands and caves of this entire area.
The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, I believe,mandates study of
potential burial sites and prevents construction where such burial sites exist.
I suggest contacting Keoni Alvarez, who has vast knowledge about cultural practices related to
burial of indigenous Hawaiian remains.
No construction at Black sands should occur.
E olu olu (please) contact Keoni to investigate the area's importance in ancestral burials.
Mahalo (thank you).
Jeff
Jeffrey Hansel
400 Kino'ole Street, Apartment 301
Hilo, HI 96720