HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-06 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Willo Roback Opposition Testimony From: Willow Roback
To: WPCtestimonv
Subject: Proposed development at Punalu'u Black Sand beach(PL-SMA-2023-000046)
Date: Wednesday,March 6,2024 7:50:37 AM
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 that I strongly OPPOSE development for 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(by marriage)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,
Willow Roback
Lwroback@gmail.com
Sent from my iPhone