HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-05 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Cara Enriques Opposition Testimony From: Cara E.
To: WPCtestimonv;Council Remote Testimony
Subject: Written Testimony opposing proposed development at Punalu'u
Date: Tuesday, March 5,2024 3:58:14 PM
County of Hawaii
WINDWARD PLANNING COMMISSION
Aupuni Center• 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 3 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720
To Whom it May Concern,
We hereby submit our written testimony AGAINST the proposed development at Punalu'u.
We strongly feel that the proposed buildings and facilities are not fit for the land and
surrounding area as it relates to the necessary infrastructure that will be needed for such a
massive development, as well as the simple beauty this native Hawaiian land has to offer its
Kama'aina and visitors alike. Such development would be too large of an impact to the
coastline and native Hawaiian species that live in the area.
Our great grandparents,the Bangay `Ghana, have lived on Punalu'u Beach and this is where
my grandparents, aunties and uncles, cousins, sibling, and my two children have grown up to
know and love as the simple life and beauty we call Punalu'u. My fathers family,the
Enriques `Ghana, also grew up up fishing and spending every day on this beautiful beach,
growing and cultivating a life for their families that is rich with hawaiian culture and love for
the `aina. To add a fitness center, theater, cafe, more condos and huge facilities would steal
Punalu'u's natural beauty and become unidentifiable to our Ohana and all those that have
lived, nurtured, and loved this area for so many lifetimes.
We beg you to listen to the people of O'ahu, the people of Big Island, and all of Punalu'u. Do
what is right and what is Pono, and do not approve the proposed plans or building permits for
this area and leave Punalu'u Beach for Kamaaina to love, enjoy, and malama for many years
to come.
Mahalo for your time and consideration,
Cara Enriques
46-371 Kumoo Loop
Kaneohe HI 96744
(808)227-5115