HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-09-10 CRC Comment Memo re Kona Open Space NetworkDR
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County of Hawai‘i
PLANNING DEPARTMENT CULTURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Aupuni Center • 101Pauahi Street, Suite 3 • Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720 Phone (808) 961-8288 • Fax (808) 961-8742
www.planning.hawaiicounty.gov Hawai‘i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer planning@hawaiicounty.gov
C. Kimo Alameda, Ph.D.
Mayor Matthew Clark, Chair Desmon Haumea, Vice Chair Darde Gamayo Roberta “Kuʻulei” Keakealani Kealohanuiopuna Kinney Nicole Lui Janet Six Aaron Spielman
MEMORANDUM
October 8, 2025
TO: JEFFREY DARROW, DIRECTOR
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
FROM: MATTHEW CLARK, CHAIR
CULTURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
SUBJECT: KONA OPEN SPACE NETWORK (KOSN) DRAFT PLAN
Location: North Kona, Hawaiʻi Island
TMK: Various
The Cultural Resources Commission (CRC), at its public meeting held on September 10, 2025,
reviewed the Kona Open Space Network draft plan in consideration of Hawaiʻi Island’s cultural
resources in the North Kona area. Below is a summary of comments and recommendations
offered by the Commission at the meeting.
• The CRC requests consideration of the distribution of archaeological sites within the hubs,
especially where access routes intersect, and how these sites relate to one another. Given
the numerous known and documented sensitive sites in the area, consider addressing the
broader cultural landscape rather than focusing on sites individually as each site is
connected, working together to create a larger landscape.
• Ensure that proposed access is appropriate and sensitive to cultural resources.
• Consider additional Public Access, Open Space, Natural Resources Preservation
Commission (PONC) properties within the area, such as Puapuaʻa Iki.
• Heiau and other sensitive sites, which have been and continue to be important places of
ceremonial practice, carry an obligation of kuleana. Respectful conduct is expected at
these locations. The commission noted that heiau holds the same cultural significance as
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Jeffrey Darrow, Planning Director
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October 8, 2025
churches and strongly advised against including them in the open spaces of the plan to
ensure the protection of these sacred sites.
•Commissioners expressed concerns regarding the use of the terms “open spaces” and
“recreation” in the plan. They cautioned against encouraging walking and biking access to
significant cultural areas, especially in areas that are not currently frequented.
•KOSN is urged to exercise great care in selecting methods to protect and preserve
sensitive sites and burials.Interpretive signage may help educate the public, but
Commissioners cautioned that signage is often disregarded and, without enforcement,
may not prevent damage or desecration of sensitive sites.
•Digital tools such as QR codes or story maps could support interpretive signage and help
to reduce vandalism of physical materials.
•The CRC recommends identifying funding sources and partnering with stewardship
groups to assist in the management and maintenance of sites.
•Engage and inform the community throughout the development of the plan.
•Recognize that “links”should not be geographic features, but the stewards who hold the
kuleana for caring for these sites.
•The CRC urges strong consideration of enforcement measures for the protection of
sensitive areas.
The CRC expressed appreciation for the opportunity to comment and requested to be kept
informed as the plan continues to develop.
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Kona Open Space Network.docm
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