HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-06-27 Erick Cremer From: Erick Cremer
To: W PCtesti mons
Subject: Bill 144-24 In Support testimony
Date: Thursday,June 27,2024 11:14:10 AM
Aloha to members of the County Council, members of government, and concerned citizens of
the Big Island,
My name is Erick Cremer, hobby beekeeper, and a resident of Hilo. I have been an off and on
hobby beekeeper in Hilo and Puna since the mid-1980's. I am here today to express my strong
support for Hawaii County Council Bill 144-24, which proposes to allow the keeping of bees
in all zoning areas within our community.
Bees play a crucial role in our ecosystem as pollinators, contributing significantly to the health
and diversity of our local flora. Allowing residents to keep bees not only supports
environmental sustainability but also promotes local agriculture and food security. I believe
this bill aligns with Hawaii County's concerns about safety and regulation are valid, and I
would like to express my deep gratitude to all parties that contributed many hours of
collaboration on this bill over the last several years. Establishing proven best management
practices in beekeeping, with proper guidelines and education for beekeepers,we can mitigate
potential risks and ensure that beekeeping in all zoning areas is conducted responsibly and
safely.
Furthermore, supporting this bill can enhance community engagement and education about the
importance of bees in our ecosystem. It presents an opportunity for residents, including
families and schools, to learn about beekeeping and environmental stewardship firsthand.
In conclusion, I urge the Council to vote in favor of Bill 144-24. By doing so,we can
empower our community to contribute positively to environmental conservation and
sustainability while respecting the concerns of all residents.
Mahalo for considering my testimony and for everyone who has been involved in this long
journey bring this bill to fruition.
Respectfully submitted,
Erick Cremer
1481 Ainaola Dr. Hilo, HI 96720
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For bees, the flower is the fountain of life;
For flowers, the bee is the messenger of love.
-Kahlil Gibran,poet