2024-03-05 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Dr. Christina Nittrouer Opposition Testimony

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From: Christie Nittrouer To: WPCtestimonv;Council Remote Testimony Subject: Opposition to the proposed development at Punalu"u Date: Tuesday, March 5,2024 11:49:15 AM Dear Hawaii County, I am writing in strong opposition to the proposed development at Punalu'u. I've been warmly welcomed by the community in Na'alehu, Punalu'u, and Pahala, and gotten to see first hand how they are in need of AFFORDABLE HOUSING, IMPROVED HEALTH FACILITIES, SENIOR HOUSING, and NOT a 230-unit resort. Punalu'u is rich with cultural history and sacred sites -- to develop a massive resort will impact these places which should rightfully remain undisturbed. Developing a massive resort with 250 parking stalls, 230 units, on a massive 37.35 acre plot, will devastate the local ecology and wildlife in Punalu'u. I demand an Environmental Impact Study be conducted, as the last study is more than 20 years old. The impact on wildlife (turtles, nene - nearly extinct, monk seals, coral, fish) and the impact to humans will be significant. Among other things, the run-off from chemicals used on the golf course will kill the Honu (green turtle) sanctuary in Punalu'u. The people of Wau deserve to have Punalu'u remain a sacred site, out of respect for the people, for the wildlife, for the preservation of Hawaii. Please consider the needs of the people -- affordable housing, health facilities, senior housing, and a dialysis center. Please consider the people in Punalu'u -- of their health, wellbeing, and the legacy left to their children. Please consider what respect must be given to Hawaii, and the people of the surrounding Punalu'u area. I truly appreciate you considering what impact you can make by preserving this sacred place, one of the only places untouched by rampant and environmentally catastrophic overdevelopment. Sincerely, Dr. Christina Anne Nittrouer