HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-04 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Dane Shibuya Support Testimony From: Dane Shibuya
To: WPCtestimony
Subject: SMA Support Testimony Letter
Date: Monday,March 4,2024 11:43:37 AM
Attachments: 2024-03-04 11-38 1.odf
Please accept my in Support Testimony Letter.
Mahalo Nui, Dane
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
Dane M. Shibuya
POB 839 Naalehu HI. 96772
(808)936-5676
Re: Black Sand Beach LLC (PL-SMA-2023-000046)
Aloha a Honorable Windward Planning Commission,
I was born and raised in Ka'u, went to Naalehu School and graduate of Ka'u High School, I had
the opportunity to work with the community for employment and as part of the community
through the Cultural Aspect. I got married, raised my ohana (family) here, sent them to Naalehu
School and was fortunate to have all four graduates from Kamehameha Schools. And, I always
would tell them to never forget where you come from (Home-Ka'u). I've resided my whole life in
Ka'u, from Plantation lifestyle, Macadamia Nut and Coffee Industry to present time. Currently,
Jobs and quality time with families are lost due to they would have to commute for employment
or like other families relocate from Ka'u and lose their cultural roots. Revitalize Punaluu like the
old time, bring back memories and at the same time preserve the way of life for the community.
In that, I had known owner Eva LUI for Black Sand Beach LLC since the first time she came to
Ka'u over six years ago, because she's my neighbor to our family business "Masazo Pig Farm" off
of Kaalaiki Rd. LUI was very soft spoken, caring and concern individual to her place and
surrounding. Always willing to listen and take criticism or advice. Constantly, express she wants
to help the community- which she has been doin; form an advisory board made up of local
community members, collaborate with the local schools and partnership with local non-profits
throughout Ka'u. With the knowledge and guidance, The Punaluu Project was directed into a
more low-density Culturally sensitive direction and outmost to create employment for the
community of Ka'u- (directly or in-directly) like an economic stimulus to promote small
businesses, Cultural Awareness and Education at the same time preservation. Above most
(Lahui) bring the ohana (families) together to live and strive in Unity. Opportunity for our
community to not need to leave the Islands. I'm strongly in support of Black Sand Beach LLC
Project for the betterment of Ka'u Future.
I humbly ask WPC Commission Members vote in supporting Black Sands Beach LLC Punaluu
Project (P`` a, Dane L-SMA-2023-000046).
Mat�ala - LoM. Shibuya