HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-05 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Skylar Rae Dawn Opposition Testimony From: Skvlar Rae Dawn
To: WPCtestimonv;Council Remote Testimony
Subject: Protect Punalu'u-opposition for BSB LLC development
Date: Tuesday, March 5,2024 2:07:09 PM
To whom it may concern,
I oppose Black Sands Beach LLC's proposal to develop in Punalu'u. This is my testimony.
First, I strongly urge that the County hold another hearing on a Saturday so working residents
of Ka'u can testify.
-I strongly urge for an Environmental Impact Statement(EIS).
-I strongly urge an updated Shoreline Assessment for the tide's setback& new high
watermark.
-I call for a Shoreline Certification, especially when 415 on the proposed Village Diagram
shows a Beach Club Cafe 100' from the beach.
-I strongly urge an adequate disaster mitigation plan.
-I strongly urge a burial treatment plan & honor to the Hawaiian culture& their Kahunas'
(ancestors')remains.
-I ask that the County fund stewardship programs to Malama (care for) the `Aina (land),
including extending the boat ramp so fisherman can assist in monitoring the shoreline& it's
critical habitat for the Honu (turtles).
-I ask that the County consider our quality of water production& address our current water
situation (e.x. Fire Hydrants neglected,water tank leaking in two places,waste water).
Further points to consider:
-I remind you the importance of accountability in following the CDP guidelines.
-With the proposal of a resort, 225 residential & short stay units, golf course,retail stores &
commercial center-there would inevitably be an increase in land tax,making it next to
impossible for locals to stay on their homeland.
-Allowing development that is not coastal dependent is harmful to the wildlife and humans
that inhabit the space. This is irresponsible planning and high liability.
-There are a number of native, endangered species that reside within the proposed
development confines. Including Hawksbill sea turtles, green sea turtles, Hawaiian monk
seals,native bees & orange-black damselflies as well as the endemic, endangered nene
(Hawaiian Goose). Development would drastically damage their livelihood, and consequently,
ours.
-It's here ancestors are laid to rest,where locals are listening to their legacies,where their
sewage system is leaking into the ocean,where a changing climate &potential for
overpopulation puts an already fragile ecosystem & economy into threat. Combined with no
disaster mitigation plan, the urgency to reevaluate the approval of a permit to develop here is
evident.
Thank you for taking the time to hear the community's concerns on developing this cherished
& dependable land, and taking immediate action to preserve the breathtaking environment of
Punalu'u and Ka'u.
For the wild, for humanity.
Skylar Rae Dawn