HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-05 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Sarah Cruz Opposition Testimony From: Sarah Cruz(US)
To: W PCtesti mono
Subject: Testimony in OPPOSITION of the Black Sand Beach LLC Application for an SMA(PL-SMA-2023-000046)
Date: Tuesday, March 5,2024 8:59:23 PM
County of Hawaii -Windward Planning Commission (March 7th 2024 Meeting)
Testimony in OPPOSITION of the Black Sand Beach LLC Application for an SMA(PL-SMA-2023-
000046)
Aloha Commissioners,
Mahalo for your time and efforts as part of the County of Hawaii Windward Planning Commission. I
am writing to share my testimony in OPPOSITION of the Black Sand Beach LLC Application for an
SMA(PL-SMA-2023-000046).
I have two main reasons for my OPPOSITION of this application:
1. The application does not meet the requirements of the related governing legislature
(HRS Chapter 205-26(2)(a)). HRS Chapter 205-26(2)(a) notes that an application must
demonstrate that the development will not have any substantial adverse
environmental or ecological effect, except as such adverse effect is minimized to the
extent practicable and clearly outweighed by public health, safety or compelling public
interests. A new and comprehensive environmental impact study needs to be
completed along with an updated shore assessment before any conclusions can be
made on the true environmental or ecological effects of development at Punalu'u.
2. The application lacks a comprehensive understanding of the significant cultural and
socio-economic aspects that hold utmost importance to native Hawaiians and long-
time residents of Punalu'u. While acknowledging the intention of progress and
revitalization,the application fails to demonstrate a sustained and overall benefit to
the native Hawaiians and long-time residents who have nurtured Punalu'u for
generations. It does not provide evidence of how sustainable economic benefits will
be achieved, such as creating a diverse range of skilled labor jobs with living wages
that enable local families to thrive. Additionally,the application does not outline a
plan for the proper preservation of cultural practices and sacred sites, ensuring their
perpetual care and monitoring by knowledgeable stewards.
I am personally tied to Punalu'u through my familial lines as our family has inhabited and cared for a
portion of Punalu'u for over 80 years and across 4 generations. It is my hope that in opposing this
proposed development application,we as a community will be able to work together to find a better
and more balanced solution between progress, revitalization, and preservation.
Mahalo for your consideration,
Sarah Cruz
sarah.a.cruz@pwc.com
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