2024-03-04 PL-SMA-2023-000046 Molly Dolphin Opposition Testimony

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From: Molly Dolphin To: W PCtesti mono Subject: Opposition to the Development at Punalu"u Date: Monday, March 4, 2024 4:13:07 PM Aloha kakou, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed development at Punalu'u Black Sands. As someone born and raised in Volcano, Punalu'u has been a cherished escape for sunshine and a connection to the kahakai throughout my entire life and it also holds deeper significance for my family. It serves as an area where my husband fishes and dives to provide for our family, adding another layer of importance to its preservation. The whole process for this development has not been conducted in a way that is pono and the current development plans are not in alignment with the values of the Ka'u community, or the surrounding areas. The community meeting, held on a weekday, did not provide adequate opportunity for working individuals to attend. Furthermore, the absence of note-taking during the meeting raises concerns about its sincerity and transparency. It appears to have been more of a symbolic gesture than a genuine effort to involve the community in the decision-making process. I believe it is imperative to conduct an updated Environmental Impact Statement(EIS) before any development proceeds. The last EIS was completed over 50 years ago, and the changes in our environment and community necessitate a thorough reevaluation of potential impacts. Moving forward without an updated EIS is not only disrespectful to the community but also raises questions about the true motives of the developer, indicating a lack of concern for the well-being of Ka'u. Additionally, the absence of a disaster mitigation plan and a burial treatment plan is alarming. These plans are crucial for the protection of both the environment and the cultural heritage of the area. Without such safeguards in place, the development poses a significant risk to the community and its surroundings. Moreover, the current state of our island is already grappling with the effects of over-tourism. This development, seemingly designed to benefit wealthy investors and cater to tourists, exacerbates the problem rather than addressing the needs of the local community. Our island's well-being should take precedence over profit-driven motives. Furthermore, Kona already serves as a major destination for tourists, while those who choose to live in Ka'u and the surrounding communities highly value the simplicity of rural living. Developing Punalu'u Black Sands into a tourist-centric area goes against the essence of why people choose to reside in Ka'u, seeking a lifestyle that embraces tranquility and the authentic spirit of rural Hawaii. We must keep Ka'u country! In addition, I want to emphasize that development in Ka'u should be avoided to preserve the land for the Native Hawaiians and the locals in the surrounding communities. Embracing the concept of malama `aina reflects our responsibility to nurture and manage the land's resources and gifts, fostering a harmonious relationship. The land is not a commodity but a cherished source of knowledge, inspiration, and physical nourishment that deserves respect and care.