HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-04 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Jennifer Johansen Opposition Testimony From: Jennifer Johansen
To: WPCtestimonv
Subject: Punalu"u
Date: Monday, March 4, 2024 7:58:52 PM
Aloha members of the Winward Planning Commission.
I am writing to express my opposition to the proposed developments at Punalu'u by Black
Sand LLC. I am a volunteer beach steward and a witness to the overcrowding of the beach due
to tourism. Visitors regularly attempt to fill containers with black sand to take home as a
souvenir and zealously approach basking turtles for photo opportunities, including throwing
sand at them in hopes they will open their eyes for a picture. Most tourists use non-reef
friendly sunscreens and heavy laundry detergents; I regularly smell chemicals from these
products while swimming and on the beach. Punalu'u does not need developments that will
bring more people onto the beach.
Increasing tides are bringing unforeseen changes to the coastline. Prior to even considering
any type of development at Punalu'u the following are needed: 1) an EIS 2)new high tide
marks that align with rising sea levels and king tides, and 3)burial treatment plans for Iwi
kupuna.
Please protect this undeveloped stretch of Ka'u coastal property for kanaka maoli and
kamaaina.
Mahalo,
Jennifer Johansen