HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-02-05 Anthony Winfrey Testimony Item #1 Wyatt's Place LLC
Given at WPC 2-6-25 Hearing
2-5-25 Anthony Winfrey Testimony
From: A.Gerrit Bax
To: W PCtesti mony
Subject: Support for Special Use Permit for Wyatt's Place
Date: Wednesday, February 5,2025 6:00:10 PM
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to express my strong support for the special use permit application for Wyatt's
Place, a longstanding establishment that has played an integral role in the Puna community for
over 30 years,under new ownership. As a local farmer and agricultural entrepreneur, I believe
that Wyatt's Place is not only a vital community landmark but also a crucial partner in
promoting and supporting local agriculture.
Wyatt's Place is filling the gap left by Dimple Cheek, and this location has long served as a
gathering space for residents and visitors alike, providing access to high-quality, locally
sourced food and beverages. The location is a landmark between Kurtistown and Mountain
View, and offers a unique opportunity to support the local economy and, in particular, farmers
like myself. With its new ownership and approval for this special use permit, Wyatt's Place is
able to further strengthen its support for local farmers, including my own agricultural business.
Through direct partnerships, Wyatt's Place will create a market for locally grown coffee,
vanilla, cacao, and other locally produced and procured agricultural products, ensuring that the
economic benefits of farming remain within our community. I represent only one of many
farms working with the owners to supply locally sourced agricultural products to a diverse
clientele that we would otherwise be unable to reach in our area. The impact of this service
extends beyond the agricultural community—it provides every local resident with access to
fresh, locally sourced food and strengthens the local economy in a meaningful way.
Approving this special use permit will allow Wyatt's Place to continue being a bridge
between local farms and consumers, giving farmers the opportunity to showcase their
products in a well-established and highly frequented space. This type of farm-to-table
collaboration is essential in boosting local food security,reducing dependency on imported
goods, and sustaining small-scale farmers who otherwise struggle with visibility in larger
markets.
It is important to highlight that Wyatt's Place is not a burden to agricultural land use; rather,it
serves as a critical extension of the agricultural economy by directly sourcing and
promoting locally grown products. By creating a venue where agricultural products can be
transformed into value-added goods, Wyatt's Place is enhancing the economic viability of
small farms and providing a much-needed platform for agricultural entrepreneurs to thrive.
As a farmer directly collaborating with Wyatt's Place to provide high-quality, locally grown
coffee, vanilla, and cacao, I can personally attest to the positive impact this establishment
has on local agriculture. The restaurant's commitment to sourcing from local farms ensures
that Puna's agricultural traditions are not only preserved but strengthened for future
generations.
For these reasons, I wholeheartedly support the approval of the special use permit for Wyatt's
Place. This establishment is a community cornerstone that fosters economic growth, enhances
local food sustainability, and uplifts small farmers. I urge the County to approve this permit so
that Wyatt's Place can continue its legacy and serve as a vital partner in Puna's agricultural
and economic landscape.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Anthony Winfrey
Kurtistown Vanilla Co. and Kilolani Farm
Orchidland, HI
808-345-8256