HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-02-26 PCDP Meeting Packet Final
County of Hawai‘i
PUNA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN ACTION COMMITTEE
Aupuni Center • 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 3 • Hilo, Hawaiʻi 96720 (808) 961-8288 • Fax (808) 961-8742
C. Kimo Alameda, Ph.D.
Mayor
Gregory Henkel, Vice Chair Jennifer Scheffel Martha Morishige Vacant Melissa Leilani DeMello, Chair Stephanie Bath Leila Kealoha Susan Osborne Frances Brewer
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the following matters to be considered by the Puna Community Development Plan (CDP) Action Committee (AC) in accordance with the provisions of Sections 92-3.7 and 92-7, Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes (HRS). This meeting will be held in person at the
location listed in this notice and by Interactive Conference Technology (ICT) through Zoom.
DATE: Thursday, February 26, 2026
TIME: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Keaʻau Community Center 16-186 Pili Mua Street
Keaʻau, Hawaiʻi 96749
ZOOM: https://www.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/qDpocjcNRjqopgak0vTGcA
INTERACTIVE CONFERENCE TECHNOLOGY (ICT): A meeting held by ICT shall be automatically recessed for up to 30 minutes to restore communication when audiovisual communication cannot be maintained with all members participating in the meeting or with the in-
person location identified in this notice. The meeting may reconvene when either audiovisual
communication is restored, or audio-only communication is established after an unsuccessful attempt to restore audiovisual communication. If it is not possible to reconvene the meeting as provided in this subsection within 30 minutes after an interruption to communication, the meeting will be automatically terminated.
PUBLIC TESTIMONY: The public may provide oral testimony at the meeting by joining Zoom or
attending in person at the physical location listed above. Although not required, to register in advance for oral testimony please contact staff at CDP@hawaiicounty.gov or (808) 961-8288. Pursuant to Section 92-3, HRS, interested persons who want to provide oral testimony may do so either at the time the committee takes public statements on the agenda, or at the time the specific
agenda item is called. Please note that public testimony may be limited to three (3) minutes in
length per agenda item. In addition, although not required, to ensure timely delivery of written testimony to committee members, it is requested that written testimony be submitted by 4:30 p.m. at least two business days prior to the meeting via email to CDP@hawaiicounty.gov. When submitting written testimony, please specify for which agenda item written testimony is being
submitted. All written testimony will be a part of the public record.
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AGENDA
I.CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALL
II.APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES – The AC will consider approving the draft minutes from theAugust 28, 2025 meeting.
III.PUBLIC TESTIMONY ON AGENDA ITEMS – Pursuant to Section 92-3, HRS, interested
persons who want to provide oral testimony may do so now, or at the time the specific agenda
item is called. Public testimony may be limited to three (3) minutes in length per agenda item.
IV.THIRD-PARTY REPORTS; GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS – The AC may receive and discussinformation from third-party reports by any government official not included in a publicly noticedagenda. The AC may only make decisions on matters originally raised by third-party reports
from any government official at a later meeting, where the agenda for the meeting gives notice
of decision-making on the matter. (Pursuant to SB 405)
•Council Member Ashley Kierkiewicz – Overview of district-related priorities(informational update).
V.BUSINESS
1.Pāhoa Special District Proposed Legislative Suite: The AC will review CommunicationNo. 2026-01, a draft letter regarding the proposed Pāhoa Special District legislative suite.The AC may approve the letter as written or with revisions and authorize PlanningDepartment staff to transmit the letter to the Windward Planning Commission.
2.Support for Cape Kumukahi – Letter to PONC: The AC will consider whether to submit
a letter to the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources PreservationCommission (PONC) in support of Cape Kumukahi (Tax Map Key (3) 1-4-002-052), whichis on PONC’s prioritized list. The AC may provide direction on the letter’s content, approvethe letter with any revisions, and authorize Planning Department staff to transmit the letter
on behalf of the AC.
3.Election of Chair and Vice Chair – 2026 Calendar Year: The AC will elect a Chair andVice Chair to serve for the 2026 calendar year.
VI.PUBLIC TESTIMONY ON MATTERS NOT ON AGENDA – Public testimony may be limitedto three (3) minutes per speaker. (Pursuant to SB 869)
VII.PROPOSED NEW BUSINESS – The AC will discuss potential agenda items for the nextmeeting scheduled for Thursday, April 23, 2026.
VIII.ANNOUNCEMENTS
•The Planning Department is seeking applicants for the Puna CDP Action Committee
and requests assistance in spreading the word to interested community members. Theapplication can be found on the Mayor’s office website at:https://www.hawaiicounty.gov/our-county/boards-and-commissions/boards-and-commissions-application
IX.ADJOURNMENT
NOTICE: This agenda and all related documents are available in the Planning Department’sPuna Community Development Plan Action Committee folder via the County of Hawaiʻi PublicDocuments Repository: https://records.hawaiicounty.gov/Weblink/1/fol/13985/Row1.aspx
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These documents may also be requested from the Planning Department by calling (808) 961-
8288 or emailing CDP@hawaiicounty.gov. The recorded video of this meeting will be uploaded to the Planning Department’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@cohplanningdepartment
The purpose of the public hearings is to afford all interested persons a reasonable opportunity
to be heard on the above items. A person desiring to submit oral or written testimony shall
indicate their name and whether the testimony is on their behalf or as a representative of an organization or individual. Written testimony can be submitted via email or hard copy. Hard copies should include an original and nine copies and be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m. two business days prior to the meeting.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service, other reasonable modification, or language
interpretation to access this meeting please contact the Planning Department at (808) 961-8288 or CDP@hawaiicounty.gov as soon as possible, but no later than five business days prior to the meeting date, to arrange for accommodations. If a response is received after the five-business days deadline, we will try to obtain the auxiliary aid/service or accommodation,
but we cannot guarantee that the request will be fulfilled. “Other reasonable modification” refers to communication methods or devices for people with disabilities who are mentally and/or physically challenged. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.
If you are a lobbyist, you must register with the Hawai‘i County Clerk within five days of
becoming a lobbyist. (Article 15, Section 2-91.3(b), Hawai‘i County Code). A lobbyist means, “any individual engaged for pay or other consideration who spends more than five hours in any month or $275 in any six-month period for the purpose of attempting to influence legislative or administrative action by communicating or urging others to communicate with public officials.” (Article 15, Section 2-91.3(a)(6), Hawai‘i County Code). Registration forms and
expenditure report documents are available at the Office of the County Clerk-Council, 25 Aupuni Street, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720.
PUNA CDP ACTION COMMITTEE Melissa Leilani DeMello, Chair
Meeting Packet QR Code:
PUNA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 1 ACTION COMMITTEE 2
COUNTY OF HAWAIʻI 3
DRAFT MINUTES 4
AUGUST 28, 2025 5 6
CALL TO ORDER 7
Chair Leilani DeMello called the Puna Community Development Plan (CDP) Action 8
Committee (AC) to order at 5:01 p.m. This meeting was held in person at the Pāhoa 9
Community Center and online via the Zoom platform. 10
The full YouTube video of this meeting can be found here: 11 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fn3ARNAbdU&t=890s 12
ROLL CALL 13
Members Present (in person): Stephanie Bath, Franny Brewer, Leilani DeMello, Martha 14 Morishige 15
Members Present (via Zoom): Gregory Henkel and Susan Osborne 16
Members Absent: Kanoe Wilson, Jennifer Scheffel, and Leila Kealoha 17
County Staff Present (in person): Maryam Palma, Janice Hata, and Kim Tanaka 18
There were approximately 14 members of the public in attendance, 12 in person and 2 19 via Zoom. 20
APPROVAL OF MINUTES 21
Committee Member Henkel moved to approve the minutes of the June 26, 2025, meeting 22 as drafted. Committee Member Osborne seconded the motion. The motion passed 23
unanimously. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP: 3:50] 24
PUBLIC TESTIMONY 25
There was no public testimony at this time. 26
BUSINESS: 27
1. Downtown Pāhoa Special District & PVD Guidelines – Council District 4 28
Council Member Ashley Kierkiewicz will present on three proposed items: (1) draft 29
legislation to designate Downtown Pāhoa as a Special Commercial District to 30 expand permitted uses for property owners; (2) a discussion of the Pāhoa Village 31 Design Guidelines, which the County Code requires the Action Committee to 32 review every ten years; and (3) proposed legislation to clarify how the PVD 33
Guidelines Committee is convened and collaborates with the Planning 34
Department. Council Member Kierkiewicz is requesting feedback from the Action 35 Committee on all proposed items. 36
PUNA CDP ACTION COMMITTEE Minutes of August 28, 2025 2
This item was called to order at 5:07 p.m. 37
Council Member Ashley Kierkiewicz presented three proposed bills related to the 38 Downtown Pāhoa Special District and Pāhoa Village Design (PVD) Guidelines. The first 39
bill would designate Downtown Pāhoa as a Special Commercial District, Downtown 40
Pāhoa Special District (DPC), to expand permitted uses such as light industrial, 41 agricultural processing, and creative studios supporting local economic growth and 42 cultural identity without imposing new taxes or obligations on property owners. 43
The second bill involves a district reclassification to establish the boundaries of the special 44
district, focusing on properties fronting Pāhoa Village Road between Post Office Road 45 and Akeakamai Loop, with rezoning intended to provide flexibility while maintaining 46 existing tax rates. 47
The third bill clarifies the role and selection process of the PVD Design Review 48 Committee, proposing that the Action Committee review and confirm its members every 49
two years to increase transparency and connection with the Planning Department. 50 Additional discussion included potential tax incentives, enterprise zone benefits, and a 51 revitalization fund supported by Transient Accommodation Tax revenues to aid small 52 businesses and downtown improvements. Community meetings are scheduled for 53 September 10, with a September 19 filing deadline and potential Council introduction on 54
October 7, aiming for adoption by summer 2026. 55
Committee Member Bath asked how the proposal would affect home occupancy, and 56 Council Member Kierkiewicz explained that home-based businesses currently require a 57 special permit but will confirm details with the Planning Director. 58
Committee Member Brewer requested clarification on the bills, and Council Member 59
Kierkiewicz noted they would be submitted as a package, with the Pāhoa Village District 60 and revitalization fund handled separately. A pre-bill addressing the metes and bounds 61 section of Chapter 25 was already sent to the Council to establish this foundation. 62
Committee Member Osborne suggested agendizing the PVD design guidelines and 63 reviewing the Waikīkī guidelines and asked if the AC could provide a letter of support to 64
the Planning Commission or Department. Council Member Kierkiewicz confirmed that a 65 letter of support would be helpful but not necessary by the October deadline. 66
RJ Parker provided testimony regarding whether it would be beneficial to have meets-67 and-bounds surveying for the perimeter of the special district to avoid future boundary 68
disputes or confusion among property owners, whether the proposed special districts are 69
limited only to portions of downtown Hilo, Pāhoa, and Kailua-Kona and not extended to 70 other areas like Volcano, why these particular bills were not mentioned in the Puna 71 Community Development Plan, whether the landscaping requirements could include 72 native and traditional food-producing trees and plants such as ʻulu, mango, and green tea 73
to support sustainability and local food sources, and whether there could be consideration 74
for affordable or tiny home villages, like the one once located in Pāhoa near Sacred 75 Hearts, to help economically challenged residents be included rather than marginalized. 76 [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP 41:23] 77
PUNA CDP ACTION COMMITTEE Minutes of August 28, 2025 3
Council Member Kierkiewicz responded that while there isn’t a formal meets-and-bounds 78 map, the special district boundaries are clearly shown on a map using TMKs, so there’s 79 no risk of partial property inclusion. They clarified that Enterprise Zones, which offer 80
certain tax benefits, exist in most communities except Waimea, and that creating a 81
Special District requires legislative initiation by a council member. Regarding RJ’s 82 concerns, Kierkiewicz noted that urban forestry isn’t addressed in the zoning bills but is 83 being considered through other ordinances and confirmed that emergency and tiny 84 homes built after the eruption have helped kupuna transition to stable housing, with 85
opportunities for expansion supported by Hope Services Hawaii and the Catholic Church. 86
David Aden provided testimony regarding clarification on the Pahoa Zone Map [SEE 87
YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP 50:04] 88
Community member (name unknown) provided testimony regarding whether developers 89 could potentially buy and demolish all buildings on Main Street in Pāhoa, expressing 90
concern about preservation of the town’s character [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP 54:04] 91
Council Member Kierkiewicz explained that none of the properties are historically 92 protected, so a developer could theoretically do that, but it’s unlikely. Guidelines can 93 encourage preservation, but they are not binding, and maintaining old buildings can be 94 costly and impractical for the community. 95
Hannah Hendricks provided testimony regarding whether the planned hub-and-spoke 96 transit project with the library in Pāhoa is still moving forward [SEE YOUTUBE 97
TIMESTAMP 1:00:12] 98
Council Member Kierkiewicz confirmed the project is still in progress despite leadership 99 changes, explaining that planning, funding, and coordination with the state are ongoing, 100
and co-locating the library and bus hub makes the project more feasible. 101
This item concluded at 6:03 p.m. 102
PUBLIC TESTIMONY ON MATTERS NOT ON AGENDA: 103
Patti Pinto reported that planning staff met with the acting DPW Director, Neil Azevedo, 104 and his team, who reviewed connectivity data and supported starting projects. Work will 105
begin on three key connectivity points, Fern Forest/Eden Rock, Puhala extension to 106 Kopua, and a route from top Hawaiian Acres to Olaʻa Road, improving highway access 107 for multiple subdivisions. She also highlighted the Pāhoa Village Design Guidelines, 108 noting their strong foundation in the Action Committee’s work. Additionally, she discussed 109 a bill that would allow property owners in certain subdivisions to deduct road fees from 110
their property taxes, helping address long-standing road maintenance issues without the 111 county taking ownership or liability [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP 1:03:25] 112
Hannah Hedrick spoke about inter-subdivision connectivity in Puna Mauka, highlighting 113 six priority locations and noting challenges with local road boards resisting the projects. 114 She emphasized the need for ongoing support and visible involvement from the Puna 115
CDP AC to advance these connectivity efforts despite opposition from some landowners 116
[SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP 1:08:12] 117
PUNA CDP ACTION COMMITTEE Minutes of August 28, 2025 4
RJ Parker provided testimony on Puna inter-subdivision connectivity, emphasizing that 118 several subdivisions, Eden Rock, Fern Forest, Kopua Farm Lots, lack adequate 119 emergency ingress and egress, which could pose serious safety risks during lava flows 120
or other disasters. They also discussed broader sustainability concerns, including 121
renewable energy opportunities, protection of native trees and agriculture, and the 122 importance of cooperative planning to enhance community resilience [SEE YOUTUBE 123
TIMESTAMP 1:11:27] 124
George Salazaar provided testimony sharing their lifelong experience living in Pāhoa 125
since 1939, noting local amenities like a nine-hole golf course, and offered to provide 126
knowledge about the area. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP 1:19:07] 127
PROPOSED AGENDA ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING: 128
1. Letter of Support for Special District 129 2. Letter of Support PVD Guidelines 130
3. Federal Lobbyist 131
ADJOURNMENT 132
The meeting was adjourned at 6:32 p.m. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP: 1:01:25] 133
These minutes and all related documents are available in the Planning Department’s 134 Puna Community Development Plan Action Committee folder via the County of Hawaiʻi 135
Public Documents Repository. These documents may also be requested from the 136 Planning Department by calling (808) 961-8288 or emailing cdp@hawaiicounty.gov. 137
County of Hawai‘i
PUNA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN ACTION COMMITTEE
Aupuni Center • 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 3 • Hilo, Hawai'i 96720
(808) 961-8288 • Fax (808) 961-8742
C. Kimo Alameda, Ph.D.
Mayor
Gregory Henkel, Vice Chair Jennifer Scheffel Martha Morishige Vacant Melissa Leilani DeMello, Chair Stephanie Bath Leila Kealoha Susan Osborne Frances Brewer
February --, 2026
Chair Louis Daniele III and Members of the Windward Planning Commission County of Hawaiʻi 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 3
Hilo, Hawaiʻi 96720
SUBJECT: Puna Community Development Plan Action Committee Letter – Pāhoa Special District Legislative Suite
Aloha Chair Daniele and Members of the Windward Planning Commission:
The Puna Community Development Plan (CDP) Action Committee writes to express its strong support for the Pāhoa Special District Legislative Suite, a coordinated package of three bills introduced by Council Member Ashley Kierkiewicz.
This legislation reflects the vision and goals articulated by the community through the Puna CDP, the Kīlauea Recovery and Resilience Plan, the Eruption Economic Recovery Plan, and the Revitalize Puna initiative. Together, these measures represent an important step toward implementing community-driven strategies for recovery, revitalization, and
long-term resilience.
Bill No. 126 establishes the Downtown Pāhoa Commercial Special District, recognizing Pāhoa’s role as a regional town center. It expands permitted uses beyond those allowed under the existing Commercial Village zoning to include light industrial and economic-
support uses such as agricultural processing, co-working spaces, creative media studios, and cultural enterprises. This expansion would support entrepreneurship and broaden economic development opportunities for property owners and local businesses.
Bill No. 124 provides an opt-in rezoning mechanism allowing property owners to transition
from Commercial Village (CV) zoning to Downtown Pāhoa Commercial (DPC). This
Communication No. 2026-01
Chair Louis Daniele III and Members of the Windward Planning Commission February --, 2026 Page 2
approach ensures participation is voluntary while enabling interested property owners to
immediately benefit from the expanded range of permitted uses.
Bill No. 125 clarifies the application of the Pāhoa Village Design Guidelines and establishes a transparent, sustained, and community-led design review framework. This
process will help ensure that future construction and renovations respect and reinforce
Pāhoa’s distinctive small-town plantation character.
Collectively, this legislative package lays critical groundwork for economic revitalization, stability, and long-term resilience in Puna. It creates flexible, community-informed
pathways for growth that align with the vision of the Puna CDP Action Committee: Mālama
Puna A Mau Loa!
The Committee extends its appreciation to Council Member Ashley Kierkiewicz and her team for their continued collaboration and engagement throughout the development of
this initiative. The Puna CDP Action Committee strongly endorses this legislative suite.
Me ke aloha nui,
Melissa Leilani DeMello, Chair Puna Community Development Plan Action Committee
JH
\\hawaiicounty.gov\depts\PL\PL\planning\public\wpwin60\CDP\CDP - Puna\Action Committee\Meetings\2026\2026 Letters
COUNTY OF HAWAI`I
ORDINANCE NO.
STATE OF HAWAI`I
BILL NO. 124
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 25-8-26 (PAHOA ZONE MAP), ARTICLE 8,
CHAPTER 25 OF THE HAWAPI COUNTY CODE 1983 (2016 EDITION, AS
AMENDED) BY CHANGING THE DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION FROM VILLAGE
COMMERCIAL—10,000 SQUARE FEET (CV-10) AND SINGLE-FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL—10,000 SQUARE FEET (RS-10) TO DOWNTOWN PAHOA
COMMERCIAL (DPC) AT WAIAKAHI`ULA, PUNA, HAWAPI, COVERED BY THE
AREA AS MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED HEREIN.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAPI:
SECTION 1. Chapter 25, Article 8, Section 25-8-26, of the Hawaii County Code 1983
2016 Edition, as amended) is amended by changing the district classification from Village
Commercial—10,000 square feet (CV-10) and Single -Family Residential — 10,000 square feet
RS-10) to Downtown Pahoa Commercial (DPC) for the land situated at Waiakahi`ula, Puna,
Hawaii, as depicted on the map attached hereto, marked Exhibit "A" and by reference made a
part hereof, and more particularly described as follows:
1. All parcels having road frontage on the northern side of Pahoa Village Road between
Post Office Road and Akeakamai Loop that are, as of the effective date ofthis
ordinance, wholly or partially within the Single -Family Residential (RS) zoning
district;
2. Any contiguous area covered by two or more adjacent parcels having road frontage
on Akeakamai Loop or on the northern side of Pahoa Village Road, between Post
Office Road and its eastern terminus, that are, as of the effective date of this
ordinance, wholly or partially within the Village Commercial (CV) zoning district;
3. Any contiguous area covered by two or more adjacent parcels having road frontage
on the southern side on Pahoa Village Road that are, as of the effective date of this
ordinance, wholly or partially within the Village Commercial (CV) district, exclusive
of any area within the State Land Use agricultural district; and
4. All parcels adjacent to any area hereinabove described that are, as of the effective
date of this ordinance, wholly within the Village Commercial (CV) district.
Communication No. 2026-02
SECTION 2. Severability. If any provision of this ordinance, or the application thereof
to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or
applications of the ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provision or
application, and to this end the provisions of this ordinance are severable.
SECTION 3. This ordinance shall take effect upon its approval.
Hawai`i
Date of Introduction:
Date of 1st Reading:
Date of 2nd Reading:
Effective Date:
HUBINCE Comm. 708
1MRODUCEID BY: `
0,6-pmn
CO IL MBER, OUNTY OF HAWAI`I
1110 IIIAW 1111
SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL -
10,000 SQ. FT. (RS-10)
TO
DOWNTOWN PAHOA
COMMERCIAL DISTRICT
A-1a
A -la
A-1 a
DPC
VILLAGE COMMERCIAL -
10,000 SQ. FT. (CV-10)
TO RS -10
DOWNTOWN PAHOA RM-2
COMMERCIAL DISTRICT RS-10
RS-1
Feet
500 1,000
AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING CODE
AMENDING SECTION 25-8-26 (PAHOA ZONE MAP) ARTICLE 8, CHAPTER 25 (ZONING)
OF THE HAWAI'I COUNTY CODE 1983 (2016 EDITION, AS AMENDED), BY CHANGING THE ZONE MAP
CLASSIFICATION FROM SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL - 10,000 SQ, FT. (RS-10)
AND VILLAGE COMMERCIAL - 10,000 SQ. FT. (CV-10)
AND AGRICULTURAL- 1 ACRE (A-1a)
TO DOWNTOWN PAHOA COMMERCIAL DISTRICT (DPC)
AT PAHOA, PUNA, HAWAI'I
MAP PREPARED BY:
COUNTY OF HAWAN, PLANNING DEPARTMENT
DATE: Jamary 13, 2026
EXHIBIT "A"
COUNTY OF HAWAI`I
ORDINANCE NO.
STATE OF HAWAI`I
BILL NO. 125
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 25, ARTICLE 7, DIVISION 4, OF THE
HAWAYI COUNTY CODE 1983 (2016 EDITION, AS AMENDED), RELATING TO THE
PAHOA VILLAGE DESIGN DISTRICT.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAVI:
SECTION 1. Chapter 25, article 7, division 4, section 25-7-40, of the Hawaii County
Code 1983 (2016 Edition, as amended) is amended to read as follows:
Section 25-7-40. Purpose and applicability; boundaries.
a) The PVD (Pahoa Village Design) District is established to [feinferee]:
1) Reinforce and promote Pahoa's role as a regional town center while retaining
its rural village feel and identity[ The «..-..ese ofthe regional town eemer iq
to seizve as;
2) Support a diversity of land uses consistent with a compact medium density
area [fer], including retail shopping, administrative and professional activities,
cultural and artistic activities, other supportive business activities, and a mix
of residential uses, capable of serving both village residents and the ever more
populous surrounding subdivisions[. Fuff-e- the FVD dist_iet seeks to
preset ], and
3) Preserve the historical Hawaii plantation architectural [theme] style that has
come to symbolize Pahoa's unique sense of place and identity[, through
implementation of design guidelinesy.4th in the DVrI b)
The PVD district, as used in this chapter, means the area [delineated provided
in the Pahea Village Design Guidelines (hereinafter "design guidelines") and
furthe described as: 1)
All parcels having frontage on Pahoa Village Road from the Pahoa Village Road
and Kea`au-Pahoa Road intersection and the Pahoa Village Road and Pahoa-
Kalapana Road intersection; 2)
All parcels having frontage on Post Office Road between Pahoa Bypass Road and
Pahoa Village Road; 3)
All parcels having frontage on the west side of Kea`au-Pahoa Road between and
inclusive of tax map key numbers: 1-5-007:012 and 1-5-007:080; 4)
All parcels having frontage on Kahakai Boulevard, including any extensions of
Kahakai Boulevard up to the parcel identified by tax map key number 1-
5-008:001, west of Pahoa Bypass Road; 5)
Parcels identified by tax map key numbers: 1-5-005:024, 1-5-006:037, 1-
5-006:015,1-5-003:037 and 1-5-003:046; and
Communication No. 2026-03
6) All parcels any part of which are designated medium density urban in Exhibit
A of Ordinance No. 12-89 amending the general plan land use pattern
allocation guide (LUPAG) map, [ : except:
A) That portion oftax map key no: 1-5-002:020 [that -is] not designated
medium density urban in Exhibit A of Ordinance No. 12-89; and
B) Parcels identified by tax map key numbers: 1-5-001:003 and
1-5-008:001."
SECTION 2. Chapter 25, article 7, division 4, section 25-7-41, of the Hawaii County
Code 1983 (2016 Edition, as amended) is amended to read as follows:
Section 25-741. Design guidelines; intent; adoption; applicability.
a) [The intent of the Pdhe , Village Design Guidelines (hereinafter "design
guidelines""sto] Any design guidelines applicable to the PVD district:
1) Shall be known and may be cited as the "Pahoa Village Design Guidelines":
2) Shall be adopted and subject to amendment by resolution: and
3 Shall articulate primary architectural features and building design
characteristics that have historically been identified as the Hawaii plantation
architectural style or theme.
b) [Design
shall be adffiinist, fed by he .,:Feet,.-] The director shall administer, implement, and
enforce the Pahoa Village Design Guidelines after giving due consideration to the
recommendations of the Pahoa design review committee [having
c) [While
All buildings and
structures, including renovations or alterations to existing ones, within the PVD
districtC. exeeot as otherwise speeified in section 25 7 42(d) ,.,.1,.wd shall be
designed [to -be] in a manner consistent with the [design guidelines and to be
1^,. ent^«y with the existing st_uet.._,.. ] Pahoa Village Design Guidelines."
SECTION 3. Chapter 25, article 7, division 4, section 25-7-42, of the Hawaii County
Code 1983 (2016 Edition, as amended) is amended to read as follows:
Section 25-7-42. Pahoa design review committee; purpose; procedures.
a) The purpose of the Pahoa design review committee [(hereinafter "eenni i#eeL`] is to
provide [an appeftunity fernt for eensistefley with the
design guidelines, on plans r -] local oversight and ensure that all [new] buildings
and [structures as well as alto.....s te 4ha eiaerier of existing buildings and
structures] exterior alterations within the PVD district[.] comply with the Pahoa
Village Design Guidelines.
b) Upen request frafn the direeter, the Puna Community Develepmet4 Plan Aetie*
AG) shall id ntify a reeemmend efie er mere apprepr:ate
2
eammittee and p .id:... any nesessat3, administrative n e.w that may he
feglired:] The Puna community development plan action committee shall invite one
or more appropriate Pahoa-based community organizations to form and provide
administrative support for the Pahoa design review committee. Committee
membership should reflect a broad [cress sesHec3] cross-section of the Pahoa
regional town center [seFviee area and to the e.,tent ..,......... a I" ih le ^hall
Rrylbiteet4ire and de, ign ], with efforts to include professionals from
the construction, small business, architecture and design industries. The Puna
community development plan action committee shall verify and affirm the
participation of each supporting organization and member of the committee every
two years.
c) [The direeter shall provide the eeffffniaee with art appeAunity to eendust aii
rehiteetur-al and design review, e.. eansseney we design guideli nes, e fitwith thdi> of nIi applieatiens for plan
appreval, P.U.D. or sign peFmit, exeept as provided for in subseetien (d) hele... ]
The committee shall review and submit recommendations on all applications for
plan approval, a P.U.D. permit, or a sign permit in accordance with section 25-
2-73, section 25-6-7, or chapter 3, article 3, of this Code, respectively. l) The
eeffimittee
shall eemplete its review of an), applieeAien fer plan appfeV4 stamped "Reviewed by"
with the .late ands nature of the a mittee ehair to Gem the direeter.
xrvrrrtrn xrcmor. 2)
The 'tree
hall lete its « fany applientie« F r n 12T1 Tl n..d C Tiz><rwnmrlaev acres:r-vvia xj cveozvo--ro"n'v"T'verzm. SIN Reviewedby" awith
the
date and signature of the e mittee ehair to the direeter within twe„ty
f..o as lo.,da« da..n ofreeeipt of any plans for partial or 3) The eemmittee shun
review And quhmit its iATWen resexi ;"endatiens Fill plieAe„s f r
sign p «mites a pre.Tided in ehapter Z artiele 3 of this l-ada 4)1 Committee recommendations
to the director shall be consistent with the provisions of the County
Charter, general plan, Puna community development plan, Pahoa Village Design
Guidelines, zoning and other related ordinances and any master plan
adopted for the PVD district. d) The director may
waive the requirement for architectural and design review by the committee when the proposed
improvements will clearly have little or no visual impact on [the presepvatie.,
or promotion ] the Hawaii plantation architectural theme, including, but not
limited to: 1) The aenstrr,etien
or installation Construction of accessory buildings or structures or minor exterior
alterations to the exterior of any existing building or structure that is
not visible from any street frontage of the building site; 2) [The addifien er
replaeenwnfl Additions or replacements of accessory features such as flag poles,
roof gutters and downspouts, railings and fencing of similar size, style and material
or that more closely conforms to the design guidelines;
3) Painting or repainting of the exterior of any building, structure or accessory
feature that is consistent with the design guidelines; or
4) [The replaeement of n..:sting] Replacement of doors and windows [where the
provided that the new size is within
ten percent of the size of the original [deeret window].
e)
to p .:de preliminary revs of aonaaptual plans prior to F mal s..l,n,:ttal of
detailed plans and a ppl:cation for a building permit pan approval, TT Tl opermit, D
sign pewit ]Upon request of prospective applicants, the committee shall provide
preliminary review and comments on draft or conceptual plans prior to submittal of
an application to the director.
fl [
PILD d:striot l.o..pda..:as and submit its rpworAVA on anti on C .. a«. op d«,o«ts to tl.o
design guidelines and- Dim district h-ound-a.:as to the Dann AG within tan years
following adoption of the design guidelines, and every tan years thereafter.
eemTl.
o ittee
may prepare and submit to the D!`TlD n r «an,.«....anantinna for into.:«, neeessaEy.]
The Pahoa design review committee or the Puna community development
plan action committee shall consult with one another before recommending
any amendments to the PVD Guidelines or the PVD district boundaries.
Any proposed amendments, along with the recommendations of both committees,
shall be forwarded through the director to the council for its consideration,
subject to the authority of the director under section 25-2-43 in the case
of any PVD district boundary amendment. R)
Once every ten years, the Puna community development plan action committee shall
invite all current and former organizations and members of the design review committee
to review the Pahoa Village Design Guidelines and the PVD district boundaries
and submit recommendations thereon. Any recommendation accepted by
the Puna community development plan action committee shall proceed as provided
in subsection (fl. ' SECTION
4. Material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken. New material is underscored.
In printing this ordinance, the brackets, bracketed and stricken material, and underscoring
need not be included. SECTION
5. Severability. If any provision of thisordinance, or the application thereof to
any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications
of the ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application,
and to this end the provisions of this ordinance are severable. 11
SECTION 6. This ordinance shall take effect upon its approval.
Hawaii
Date of Introduction:
Date of 1st Reading:
Date of 2nd Reading:
Effective Date:
REFERINCE Comm. 709
IN R DUCED BY:
COUNCIL MEMBER, UNTY OF HAWAI`I
MIlI
o i M
COUNTY OF HAWAI`I
ORDINANCE NO.
STATE OF HAWAI`I
BILL NO. 126
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 25, ARTICLES 1, 3, 5, AND 7, OF THE
HAWAPI COUNTY CODE 1983 (2016 EDITION, AS AMENDED), RELATING TO
SPECIAL DISTRICTS.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAFI:
SECTION 1. Chapter 25, article 1, section 25-1-5, of the Hawaii County Code 1983
2016 Edition, as amended) is amended by adding definitions to be appropriately inserted in
subsection (b) and to read as follows:
Co -working and innovation hub" means an establishment where office space,
supplies, amenities, and other related services are shared among multiple businesses or
individuals."
Creative media space" means a facilitv used for the production of creative media
including film, television, graphic design, website development, video games, and other
digital content, or for the instruction of skills, techniques, methods, and processes used
therein. Creative media spaces typically include, but need not have, a sound stage,
audiovisual recording and editing equipment, and office space."
Cultural enterprise" means an establishment primarily involved in the creation,
display, and sale of arts, crafts, music, performances, activities, and educational
experiences related to the cultural heritage of Hawaii."
SECTION 2. Chapter 25, article 3, section 25-3-2, of the Hawaii County Code 1983
2016 Edition, as amended) is amended to read as follows:
Section 25-3- 2. Designation of special districts.
The special zoning districts of the County shall consist ofthe following:
1) Kailua Village design commission (article 7, division 1).
2) CDH, Downtown Hilo commercial district (article 7, division 2).
3) UNV, University district (article 7, division 3).
4) PD, Project districts (article 6, division 4).
5) APD, Agricultural project districts (article 6, division 5).
6) PVD, Pahoa Village Design district (article 7, division 4).
7) DPC, Downtown Pahoa commercial district (article 7, division )_"
Communication No. 2026-04
SECTION 3. Chapter 25, article 4, division 1, section 25-4-15, of the Hawaii County
Code 1983 (2016 Edition, as amended) is amended by amending subsection (a) to read as
follows:
a) Agricultural tourism is permitted as an accessory use to agricultural processing
facilities in the CG, CDH, CV, CN, ML, MG, [and] MCX, and DPC districts."
SECTION 4. Chapter 25, article 4, division 1, section 25-4-17, of the Hawaii County
Code 1983 (2016 Edition, as amended) is amended by amending subsection (b) to read as
follows:
b) Meeting facilities, which may include special events, are permitted:
1) In the RCX, V, CN, CG, CV, MCX, ML, MG, [and] CDH, and DPC districts,
provided that the director has issued plan approval;
2) In the RA, FA, and A districts, provided a use permit or a special permit is
obtained; and
3) In the IA district, provided a special permit is obtained."
SECTION 5. Chapter 25, article 4, division 5, section 25-4-59.2, of the Hawaii County
Code 1983 (2016 Edition, as amended) is amended to read as follows:
Section 25-4-59.2. Exceptions to the off-street parking and loading
requirements.
The off-street parking and loading requirements of this chapter shall not apply to
the following:
W M Non-residential uses located within that area in the City of Hilo, bounded by
Kino`ole Street, Ponahawai Street, and an imaginary straight line extension of
Ponahawai Street into Hilo Bay and Wailuku River[.];
b)] (2) Dwelling units with a maximum density of one thousand square feet of land
area per unit or less, within that area in the City of Hilo, bounded by Kino`ole
Street, Ponahawai Street, and an imaginary straight line extension of
Ponahawai Street into Hilo Bay and Wailuku River[.];
e)] ((3) That area immediately fronting either side of that portion ofthe Hawaii Belt
Highway which runs from the real property designated as tax map key no: 7-
9-7-66 to the real property designated as tax map key no: 7-9-9:22, in
Kainaliu, North Kona[.], and
T 852-1B*o-m cncz aistfiet hayiag a total AFRA of than seventhousand
five squaredrehundfee h....e F ,.««Dzh.... Village Read.Read. hetween
and
Duuau Viullagv Deadt, provided that any lot ,eated through « .el PenSelid-
Fitian diae.. fiat result in ., !at haying a total area ..C....yen th,. ,7 five 2
re;vide off street parking in asea ranee with the requirement.,; Rfthi";
ehapter.J
4) Any property wholly within the DPC district, extent as may be otherwise
required by plan approval."
SECTION 6. Chapter 25, article 7, of the Hawaii County Code 1983 (2016 Edition, as
amended) is amended by adding a division to be appropriately inserted and to read as follows:
Division . Downtown Pahoa Commercial District.
Section 25-7- Purpose and applicability.
a) The DPC (downtown Pahoa commercial) district is established to:
1) Encourage a dynamic town where environment, culture, commerce, and
community coexist harmoniously;
2) Support diverse economic development, with an emphasis on locally -owned
businesses;
3) Celebrate the historical and cultural heritage ofPahoa in alignment with
applicable design guidelines of the PVD district:
4) Enhance the quality of life of residents and visitor experiences through
improved infrastructure and amenities;
Provide opportunities for recreation, dining, cultural practices, creative
activities, education, business and commercial services, and community
programs in a safe and walkable built environment; and
6) Promote housing availability and community -driven economic growth
b) The zoning requirements of this district shall not ba applicable to any parcel, unless
wholly within the PVD district.
DPC."
1) Adult day care homes.
2) Agricultural products processing, minor.
3) Agricultural tourism, as permitted under section 25-4-15.
4) Amusement and recreation facilities. indoor.
5) Apiaries.
6) Art galleries.
7) Automobile service stations.
8) Bakeries.
9) Bars and cocktail lounges.
10) Boarding facilities. rooming or lodging houses.
Botanical gardens, nurseries and greenhouses, seed farms, plant experimental
stations, arboretums, floriculture, and similar uses dealing with the growing of
1pants.
12) Breweries, distilleries, and alcohol manufacturing facilities.
13) Broadcasting stations or studios (radio and television).
14) Business services.
15) Car washing, provided that the facilities are not detrimental to the character of
the district.
16) Catering establishments.
17) Co -working and innovation hubs.
18 Creative media spaces.
19 Cultural enterprises.
20 Display rooms for products sold elsewhere.
21 Dwellings, double -family or duplex, with a minimum density of five hundred
square feet of land area per rentable unit or dwelling unit.
22 Dwellings, multiple -family, with a maximum density of five hundred square
feet of land per rentable unit or dwelling unit.
23 Dwellings, single-family.
24) Family child care homes.
25) Farmers markets.
26) Financial institutions.
27) Food manufacturing and processing facilities.
28 Group living facilities.
29) Home occupations, as permitted under section 25-4-13.
30 Hospitals, old age, nursing and rest homes.
31 Ice storage and dispensing facilities.
32 Laundries other than those utilizing steam cleaning equipment, provided that
facilities are not detrimental to the character of the district.
Manufacturing_ processing and packaging, light, provided that the activities
are not detrimental to the character of the district.
34) Medical clinics.
35 Meeting facilities, including special events, as permitted under section
25-4-17.
36) Modeling agencies.
37) Museums and libraries.
38) Neighborhood parks, playgrounds, tennis courts, swimming pools, and similar
neighborhood recreational areas and uses.
Offices.
40) Personal services.
u Photography and art studios.
Printing and publishing, including print shops and publishing houses, and
digital media production studios.
43 Public uses and structures, as permitted in section 25-4-11.
44 Repairs establishment, minor.
45 Restaurants.
0
46) Retail establishments, provided that they are not detrimental to the character
of the district.
47) Schools, business.
Schools, photography, art, music, dance or other similar studios or academies.
Schools, vocational.
Special events.
51 Storage and sale of seed, feed, fertilizer, and other products essential to
agriculture production.
Theaters, auditoriums and indoor sports arenas.
53 Wholesaling and distribution operations.
Residential uses in connection with the operation of any permitted use shall be
permitted in the DPC district.
c) Buildings and uses normally considered accessory to the above uses shall also be
permitted in the DPC district.
Section 25-7- Height limit.
The height limit in the DPC district shall be thirty feet.
Section 25-7- . Minimum building site area.
The minimum building site area in the DPC district shall be seven thousand five
hundred square feet.
width of fifty feet.
Section 25-7- . Minimum yards.
Front, rear, and sides: none, except as required by plan approval."
SECTION 7. Material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken. New material is
underscored. In printing this ordinance, the brackets, bracketed and stricken material, and
underscoring need not be included.
SECTION 8. Severability. If any provision ofthis ordinance, or the application thereof
to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or
applications of the ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provision or
application, and to this end the provisions of this ordinance are severable.
SECTION 9. This ordinance shall take effect upon its approval.
Hawai`i
Date of Introduction:
Date of 1 sf Reading:
Date of 2nd Reading:
Effective Date:
REFERENCE Comm. 710
IA
IN DUCED BY:
10I----
COUNCIL MEMBER, COUNTY OF HAWAI`I
0
1111110.1111
Q
1
County of Hawai‘i
PUNA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN ACTION COMMITTEE
Aupuni Center • 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 3 • Hilo, Hawai'i 96720
(808) 961-8288 • Fax (808) 961-8742
C. Kimo Alameda, Ph.D.
Mayor
Gregory Henkel, Vice Chair Jennifer Scheffel Martha Morishige Vacant Melissa Leilani DeMello, Chair Stephanie Bath Leila Kealoha Susan Osborne Frances Brewer
February --, 2026
Chair Deborah Chang and Members of the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission (PONC) County of Hawaiʻi
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1101 Hilo, Hawaiʻi 96720
SUBJECT: Puna Community Development Plan Action Committee Letter – Support for Cape Kumukahi on PONC’s Prioritized List
Aloha Chair Chang and Members of PONC:
The Puna Community Development Plan (CDP) Action Committee writes to express its strong support for the County’s proposed public acquisition and consolidation of the Cape
Kumukahi parcels – 11 parcels totaling approximately 2,000 acres in the ahupuaʻa of Kula, Puna District – currently listed on the Hawaiʻi County Prioritized List for the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund.
This project represents a vital and timely opportunity to protect one of Hawaiʻi’s most
culturally, ecologically, and historically significant wahi pana through conservation, respectful cultural stewardship, and careful public management – fully consistent with the vision and priorities of the Puna CDP.
We are especially encouraged that the application reflects meaningful landowner
engagement: all 11 landowners have been consulted and have provided letters of support indicating willingness to sell for conservation and cultural preservation through the PONC process. This alignment – landowners, community, nonprofit partners, and County purpose – creates a uniquely workable path forward that merits decisive action.
Communication No. 2026-05
Chair Deborah Chang and Members of PONC February --, 2026 Page 2 We also acknowledge and appreciate the commitment of community-based nonprofit partners who are prepared to help steward this place in perpetuity. Hoʻoūlu Lāhui, a well-
established nonprofit with over 30 years of service centered on protecting and educating
about wahi pana, and the Kuamoʻo Legacy Foundation have committed to take leading roles in preservation planning and long-term management in collaboration with the County and community.
Cultural and Historical Preservation
Kumukahi is a wahi pana of profound cultural and spiritual importance. Widely recognized as the easternmost point where the sun first touches Hawaiʻi each day, it is associated with sacred traditions, including leina (a spiritual transition point). Kumukahi is also closely tied to the arrival of Pele and serves as a wahi ilina (burial site) for generations of kūpuna.
These parcels hold deep significance for lineal and cultural descendants who continue to
maintain longstanding ceremonial and traditional practices connected to this landscape. Acquisition and consolidation would allow for coordinated implementation of a Burial Treatment Plan and other cultural management measures to ensure the respectful care
of iwi kūpuna and to preserve appropriate access for descendants and practitioners.
This directly supports the Puna CDP goal to ensure: “Structures and cultural sites that are significant to Puna’s history and cultural traditions are preserved.” (Puna CDP Goal 2.1.1)
Environmental Protection and Stewardship
The Kumukahi landscape includes native coastal ecosystems and habitat supporting endangered and native species, including the Hawaiian petrel (‘Ua‘u), Hawaiian hoary bat (‘Ōpe‘ape‘a), and native coastal plants and trees. Consolidating the parcels enables a comprehensive stewardship approach – ecosystem restoration, invasive species control,
protection of sensitive habitats, and coordinated monitoring – rather than fragmented,
parcel-by-parcel management. This aligns with the Puna CDP goal to ensure: “The native forests of Puna are revered as part of the native culture and are
provided with permanent protection from degradation and loss.” (Puna CDP
Goal 2.1.1)
Community Access, Education, and Managed Use
With appropriate planning, this acquisition can support community-based stewardship, place-based education, and carefully managed public access that honors cultural protocol
and ecological limits. The project creates opportunities for interpretive and educational programming, cultural learning, and low-impact trails or guided access where appropriate – centered on mālama ʻāina and respectful visitation.
Chair Deborah Chang and Members of PONC February --, 2026 Page 3 This supports the Puna CDP goal to:
“Expand awareness and appreciation of the host culture.” (Puna CDP Goal
2.1.1)
Coastal Protection and Public Safety
Cape Kumukahi is a fragile coastal environment. County acquisition and unified
management will help prevent unmanaged impacts such as erosion, habitat degradation,
illegal dumping, off-trail damage, and unsafe use in hazardous coastal areas. A coordinated management plan can balance cultural access and public benefit with resource protection and public safety, while preventing the incremental harms that often occur when lands remain fragmented or unmanaged.
In conclusion, the Puna CDP Action Committee strongly supports this acquisition and consolidation initiative as an investment in the long-term protection of Kumukahi for present and future generations. It advances the County’s public purposes of cultural integrity, ecological protection, community stewardship, and sustainable land
management – supported by a coalition of willing landowners and committed nonprofit
partners. We respectfully urge the Commission to continue advancing this project through the PONC process and to support County action to secure these lands for permanent
protection.
Mahalo for your thoughtful consideration. Sincerely,
Melissa Leilani DeMello, Chair Puna Community Development Plan Action Committee
JH
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