HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-05 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Aiden Tyrin Opposition Testimony From: Aiden Tyrin
To: WPCtestimony
Subject: Testimony in opposition of the black sand beach Ilc application for an sma(PL-SMA-2023-000046)
Date: Tuesday, March 5,2024 9:37:17 PM
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,
Aiden Tyrin
aidenyrinna�gmail.com