HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-05 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Keith Neal Opposition Testimony From: Keith Neal
To: W PCtesti mono
Subject: Testimony re: Punalu'u SMA permit application (PL-SMA-2023-000046)
Date: Tuesday, March 5,2024 11:39:34 AM
TO:
Windward Planning Committee Meeting
Thursday, March 7, 2024 9am
Hawaii County Council Chambers
25 Aupuni Street, Hilo
Aloha Chair Lin, Vice Chair Daniele, and Members of the Windward Planning
Committee,
I urge the committee to deny the Special Management Area permit application
(Agenda Item #3, PL-SMA-2023-000046) to build a resort development at Punalu'u
Black Sand Beach.
The Hawai'i State Supreme Court has ruled the county has an affirmative duty to
protect nearshore marine waters. The Planning Department's recommendations do
not address the existing serious wastewater problems. A Supplemental
Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) must be completed before the SMA permit
application can be considered. A compliant wastewater treatment plant must be in
place and operational before the SMA permit is approved.
I respectfully urge the committee to deny the SMA application and take action(s) to
protect Punalu'u Black Sand Beach.
Thank you for your consideration.
Keith Neal
Waimea