HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-05 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Kumu Pekelo Richmond Opposition Testimony From: Pekelo R
To: W PCtesti mono
Subject: Aole development at Punaluu.Culture over kala
Date: Tuesday, March 5,2024 3:37:18 PM
Aloha kakou,
My name is Pekelo Richmond. I am a makuakane of a lineal decendent of south kona and a
kumu and educator for over 10 years. I am opposed to any new development on the Island of
Hawaii and specifically Ka'u ma Punalu'u makai. The following are reasons for my
opposition.
The state of Hawaii and County of Hawaii has been unable to work properly with DHHL to
procure and produce housing for kanaka oiwi "Hawaiians" for over 130 years. Why do
developers get a pass to build homes for rich foreigners and second home owners? How many
hawaiians must die waiting for land from the state of hawaii on the dhhl waitlists before
anymore for profit, aina killing developments occurs? 1000, 2000, what is a number that is
suitable?
Resorts and developments are an unsuitable and unsustainable society business model. Makes
the rich richer and poor poorer.
Is there clear title on all of this land? Is this land stolen, how was it acquired and passed down
since 1843?
Being a school teacher at a Doe Hawaiian immersion school in south kona i can say with no
doubt, not one of my haumana wants more development of aina and open spaces. They love to
gather, hunt and fish in these places. You think 4 seasons,kohanaiki, or kona village
developments have helped with gathering laws and rights? You cannot eat money or luxury
homes,no?
Natural aina and beaches serves a communities mental and physical health far more than
another development.
Please look beyond short term gains. What is more prized in this world now, natural aina or
greed?
Kumu Pekelo Richmond