HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-05 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Myra Jean Sumida Opposition Testimony From: mvraiean sumida
To: WPCtestimonv;Council Remote Testimony
Subject: Opposition to Approval of SMA Use Permit Application
Date: Tuesday, March 5,2024 6:00:20 PM
Aloha Planning Director Zendo Kern and members of the Commission,
This communication conveys my testimony in opposition of the proposed development plans as submitted by
Applicant/Landowner,Black Sand Beach,LLC.
I've been a resident homeowner in Pahala since 1974,and have lived in Ka'u since 1950. I was born at what was
known as the Pahala Hospital,and spent my childhood and teen years growing up in the wahi papa that is the very
subject of this development. My direct lineal descendants who once lived at Punalu'u are interred at Hokuloa
Chapel/Cemetery located on the bluffs of Punalu'u,whose steeple served as a landmark for my family who were
and still are avid shoreline and deepsea fishermen. All that I know of this special and legendary place...the history,
culture,mo'olelo,mele,of Punalu'u,and the lifestyle and family system of Ka'u,I've learned from my Kupuna at
Hokuloa Chapel.Now,I am a Kupuna who wants to be sure our children,mo'opuna(and their children and
mo'opuna)will have a Punalu'u Black Sand Beach that is protected from becoming another RESORT beach.
I am not against development,I am opposed to what the Applicant/Landowner thinks this is what the people of Ka'u
wants or needs. I can confidently say there are many,many,long time Ka'u Kupuna and others who share my
sentiments about this huge development but it is not in their nature to speak out. Many are often intimidated by the
usual vocal proponents so they choose to remain silent.
I ask you as our Planning Commissioners,to kindly take the time to listen to all the humble voices to better
understand what this Community really wants and values.
Please do not approve this SMA Permit Application without an updated EIS and do not allow this Developer's plans
to deviate from our established Ka'u Community Development Plan.
Mahalo piha,
mj sumida