HomeMy WebLinkAboutComm. 25-010 Comm. 25-010
;n Ho'oulu Lahui
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March 3, 2025
Aloha PONC Commissioners,
I am honored to submit this letter of unconditional support for the application to the Public Access, Open
Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission (PONC) regarding the consolidation and
acquisition of 14 properties in Kumukahi, within the Ahupua`a of Kula. This vital initiative, known as
Kumukahi, represents a significant opportunity to protect and steward one of Hawai`i's most sacred and
ecologically significant landscapes.
Ho`oulu Lahui, a nonprofit organization based in Puna, Hawaii, has dedicated the past 30 years to
cultural and educational initiatives that have laid the foundation for Kua O Ka La Charter School, our
affiliate. We have successfully raised and managed over $20 million in funding, secured permits, and
developed an entire school campus. Our experience demonstrates our deep commitment to cultural
preservation, education, and community stewardship.
This proposal seeks to acquire and unify multiple adjoining parcels within Kumukahi to establish a
comprehensive land management and stewardship plan. The public acquisition of these lands will ensure
the long-term protection of one of Hawai`i's most historically, culturally, and ecologically treasured wahi
pana, preserving its legacy for future generations.
Kumukahi holds profound importance in Hawaiian traditions and mo`olelo. As the easternmost point of
Hawaii, it is revered as the first place where the rising sun touches the islands and is intrinsically tied to
the arrival of Pele. It is also recognized as a llina, a sacred place of transition where spirits pass into the
next realm, making it a site of immense spiritual and cultural significance.
Additionally, Kumukahi is a wahi ilina (burial site), with multiple identified burial locations. This further
underscores the urgency of protecting the land to ensure responsible stewardship and cultural
preservation. Many `ohana continue to honor their kupuna through ceremonies at Kumukahi, passing this
kuleana on to their kamah`i and mo`opuna. The acquisition of these lands would provide the necessary
framework for implementing an approved burial treatment plan, ensuring the respectful care of iwi
kupuna.
Kumukahi and the greater Kula Ahupua`a are home to diverse native flora and fauna, including
endangered species such as the Hawaiian petrel (`Ua`u) and the Hawaiian hoary bat(`Ope`ape`a). The
area also supports vital marine ecosystems that contribute to the biodiversity and sustainability of our
island's natural resources. Public acquisition and stewardship of these lands will ensure the protection of
these fragile ecosystems from future development and degradation.
Ho`oulu Lahui is well-positioned to collaborate on the management and stewardship of this sacred wahi
pana along our Puna coastline.
Mahalo for your time and thoughtful consideration of this important initiative.
With gratitude,
Susie Osborne
Co-Founder, Ho`oulu Lahui