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From: Willow Roback <br /> To: WPCtestimonv <br /> Subject: Proposed development at Punalu'u Black Sand beach(PL-SMA-2023-000046) <br /> Date: Wednesday,March 6,2024 7:50:37 AM <br /> County of Hawaii-Windward Planning Commission(March 7th 2024 Meeting) <br /> Testimony in OPPOSITION of the Black Sand Beach LLC Application for an SMA(PL-SMA-2023-000046) <br /> Aloha Commissioners, <br /> Mahalo for your time and efforts as part of the County of Hawaii Windward Planning Commission. I am writing to <br /> share my testimony that I strongly OPPOSE development for the Black Sand Beach LLC Application for an SMA <br /> (PL-SMA-2023-000046). <br /> I have two main reasons for my OPPOSITION of this application: <br /> 1 The application does not meet the requirements of the related governing legislature(HRS Chapter 205-26(2) <br /> (a)). HRS Chapter 205-26(2)(a)notes that an application must demonstrate that the development will not have any <br /> substantial adverse environmental or ecological effect,except as such adverse effect is minimized to the extent <br /> practicable and clearly outweighed by public health, safety or compelling public interests. A new and <br /> comprehensive environmental impact study needs to be completed along with an updated shore assessment before <br /> any conclusions can be made on the true environmental or ecological effects of development at Punalu'u. <br /> 2 The application lacks a comprehensive understanding of the significant cultural and socio-economic aspects <br /> that hold utmost importance to native Hawaiians and long-time residents of Punalu'u.While acknowledging the <br /> intention of progress and revitalization,the application fails to demonstrate a sustained and overall benefit to the <br /> native Hawaiians and long-time residents who have nurtured Punalu'u for generations.It does not provide evidence <br /> of how sustainable economic benefits will be achieved,such as creating a diverse range of skilled labor jobs with <br /> living wages that enable local families to thrive.Additionally,the application does not outline a plan for the proper <br /> preservation of cultural practices and sacred sites,ensuring their perpetual care and monitoring by knowledgeable <br /> stewards. <br /> I am personally tied(by marriage)to Punalu'u through my familial lines as our family has inhabited and cared for a <br /> portion of Punalu'u for over 80 years and across 4 generations. It is my hope that in opposing this proposed <br /> development application,we as a community will be able to work together to find a better and more balanced <br /> solution between progress,revitalization,and preservation. <br /> Mahalo for your consideration, <br /> Willow Roback <br /> Lwroback@gmail.com <br /> Sent from my iPhone <br />