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From: John Lyle <br /> To: WPCtestimonv <br /> Subject: Punalu"u Development Comments <br /> Date: Monday,March 4,2024 12:21:24 PM <br /> Aloha , <br /> Our family was not able to attend the recent gathering at Punalu'u but we certainly would have <br /> if we could have. We're sending along this short comment for the record. We live about 20 <br /> miles from Punalu'u and have frequented the area for years. While we do not oppose any/all <br /> development there and we are glad the scale of the proposed development is smaller than past <br /> plans, we still do have concerns. As you know,past development at Punalu'u had been <br /> damaged/destroyed by a hurricane many years ago and the proposed development being so <br /> close to the water may indeed suffer the same fate. And as you know, the area is a critical <br /> habitat for breeding turtles and is a sacred cultural site. We are concerned about the huge <br /> numbers of additional people who will come, especially tourists who we have seen violate <br /> laws about approaching turtles at Punalu'u for decades. Our experience with tourists has not <br /> been totally positive. They have overrun Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park as well. Given the <br /> scope of the development plan and sensitivity of the land, one would expect that an <br /> Environmental Impact Statement would be necessary. And if it were not necessary, one would <br /> hope that one would be done anyway, to assure that all cards are on the table for all to see and <br /> consider. Like we said, we aren't opposed to all development, and the area needs care and <br /> repair, but like so many development projects, it seems a bit rushed. In closing, we say let's <br /> take a few steps back and do it right; do the right thing. If the developers aren't satisfied with <br /> that, then they can go to Florida and expand Disneyworld. Thanks for your time and <br /> consideration. Sincerely, John, Susanne, Jussi and Lani Lyle <br />