HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-05 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Dr. Christina Nittrouer Opposition Testimony 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