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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCommunity Strengths by Zip Code Tabulation Area2025 LAULIMA COMMUNITY SURVEY Hawaiʻi County is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Summaries and themes, by Zip Code Tabulation Area, from resident responses to survey question 16, “What do you appreciate most about your community?” Contents 96704 Captain Cook ........................................................................................................................ 1 96710 Hakalau ................................................................................................................................ 2 96719 Hāwī ..................................................................................................................................... 3 96720 Hilo ....................................................................................................................................... 4 96725 Hōlualoa ............................................................................................................................... 5 96726 Hōnaunau ............................................................................................................................. 6 96727 Honokaʻa .............................................................................................................................. 7 96728 Honomū ............................................................................................................................... 8 96737 Ocean View .......................................................................................................................... 9 96739 Waikoloa ............................................................................................................................ 11 96740 Kailua Kona ......................................................................................................................... 13 96743 Kamuela ............................................................................................................................. 14 96749 Keaʻau ................................................................................................................................. 16 96750 Kealakekua ......................................................................................................................... 18 96755 Kapaʻau............................................................................................................................... 19 96760 Kurtistown .......................................................................................................................... 20 96764 Laupāhoehoe ..................................................................................................................... 21 96771 Mountain View ................................................................................................................... 22 96772 Nāʻālehu ............................................................................................................................. 24 96773 Ninole ................................................................................................................................. 25 96774 ʻOʻōkala .............................................................................................................................. 26 96776 Paʻauilo ............................................................................................................................... 27 96777 Pāhala ................................................................................................................................. 28 96778 Pāhoa ................................................................................................................................. 29 96780 Pāpaʻaloa ............................................................................................................................ 31 96781 Pāpaʻikou ............................................................................................................................ 32 96783 Pepeʻekeo ........................................................................................................................... 33 96785 Volcano ............................................................................................................................... 34 Page | 1 96704 Captain Cook Residents most appreciate the natural beauty, aloha spirit, close-knit relationships, and peaceful rural lifestyle of their community — tempered by awareness of economic and social challenges but rooted in a shared pride of place and culture. Natural beauty and environment: • Many residents deeply value the natural landscape, including the ocean, beaches, open spaces, and views. Words like “beauty,” “peacefulness,” and “nature” appear frequently. People appreciate the area’s rural, undeveloped setting and its connection to the ʻāina. Sense of community and aloha spirit: • The people stand out as a core source of pride. Residents describe their neighbors as friendly, supportive, and caring, often referring to the “spirit of aloha,” ʻohana, and local culture of helping one another. Several note that this tight-knit, small-town feel fosters trust, familiarity, and cooperation during hardships. Quiet, peaceful, rural lifestyle: • Respondents value the slow pace of life, rural character, and relative safety and privacy of their areas. Low population density, lack of major development, and limited traffic are seen as positives that contribute to quality of life. Culture, heritage, and connection to ʻāina: • Cultural identity runs strong—many express pride in preserving Hawaiian culture, language, and values. • The link between community, land, and sustainability appears through mentions of agriculture, farmers’ markets, and mālama ʻāina. Favorable climate and outdoor living: • Several respondents mentioned pleasant weather and outdoor accessibility (farming, ocean, recreation) as key benefits. Challenges and realism: • A smaller number expressed concern about rising costs of living, economic hardship, and changes to rural life. Yet even these comments often highlight resilience and mutual support among residents. Page | 2 96710 Hakalau Most residents appreciate the people—describing them as kind, friendly, genuine, and community-oriented. • Many emphasize a strong sense of togetherness, Aloha spirit, and willingness to help one another, including newcomers. • Others value the beauty of the area, particularly its natural environment, ocean views, trees, and pleasant weather. • A number of comments also reflect pride in the local culture and grassroots involvement, such as farmers markets and volunteer initiatives. • While most remarks are positive, a few express concern over declining community upkeep, changes in demographics, and lack of government support. In essence, residents most appreciate the people, beauty, peace, and local culture that define their community. Page | 3 96719 Hāwī Residents most appreciate the supportive people in their community, strong community bonds, aloha spirit, peaceful small-town life, and natural beauty. • Strong Sense of Community and Support: Nearly all comments emphasize the close- knit, family-oriented nature of the town. People describe neighbors as caring, cooperative, and always ready to help each other, especially when government support is lacking. • Aloha Spirit and Shared Values: Words like aloha, kindness, compassion, and respect appear frequently, showing pride in local culture and mutual care among residents. • Small-Town Peace and Safety: Many value the quiet, rural lifestyle, low crime, and the sense of safety and familiarity where “everyone knows your name.” • Natural Beauty and Environment: The scenic landscape, fresh air and water, open spaces, and access to the ocean and nature are cherished aspects of daily life. • Cultural and Local Pride: Residents express strong attachment to Kohala’s identity — its Hawaiian culture, traditions, and the shared goal of “keeping Kohala Kohala.” Page | 4 96720 Hilo 670 Responses Residents most often appreciate the relationships, safety, and overall quality of life their community provides People and relationships: • Many residents highlight friendly neighbors, a strong sense of togetherness, and people who are kind, helpful, and supportive. • They value small groups and individuals who “go the extra mile” to help others, often quietly and without recognition. Safety and peace of mind: • Respondents frequently mention low crime, feeling safe, and knowing one another as major reasons they value their community. This sense of safety is tied to trust, honesty, and neighbors looking out for each other. Natural environment and appearance: • Many residents appreciate the beauty of the local environment, such as nature, scenery, and green spaces. These features are seen as enhancing daily life and contributing to a calm, pleasant atmosphere. Supportive institutions and services: • People mention being grateful for churches, local organizations, and public services that support families and those in need. Community facilities and amenities that meet every day needs (like local markets or gathering spaces) are also appreciated. Shared values and identity: • Residents often describe their community as proud, close-knit, and grounded in values like kindness, fairness, and integrity. • They appreciate a strong community identity and a feeling that people care about one another’s well-being. Page | 5 96725 Hōlualoa 56 responses Residents most appreciate their community for its strong sense of connection, peaceful environment, deep-rooted sense of place and culture, and local character. Sense of Community and Caring: • Many respondents emphasize the people — friendly neighbors, caring attitudes, and willingness to help one another. Terms like ʻohana, kokua, and community spirit appear often, reflecting mutual respect, trust, and care across generations. Small-Town Feel and Rural Lifestyle: • Residents value the small-town atmosphere, describing it as quiet, relaxed, and free from excessive congestion or tourism. • Several note enjoying knowing others by name and feeling safe, especially for raising children. Cultural and Historical Connection: • Many responses highlight local culture, history, and traditions, appreciating Holualoa’s heritage, long-time residents, and continued sense of aloha despite changes brought by development and outside influences. Natural Beauty and Environment: • Respondents appreciate the natural setting — the weather, open spaces, access to ocean and nature, and opportunities for farming, recreation, and rural living. Community Improvements and Livelihood: • Some mention local efforts to improve shared spaces, support agriculture, and sustain small businesses and jobs, while a few express concerns about affordability and outside development affecting local families. Page | 6 96726 Hōnaunau 12 responses Residents most appreciate the sense of community and connection in their area — people describe neighbors as friendly, caring, and supportive, often emphasizing how families look out for each other and help when needed. • Many also value the rural, peaceful lifestyle with natural beauty, space, and low traffic, which allows for privacy and even off-grid living. • Some responses highlight local identity and self-sufficiency, such as “hui up” (coming together) and appreciation for local leadership and grassroots engagement. • Others mention the importance of preserving rural character against outside development and maintaining Aloha spirit and accountability, especially regarding community fairness and responsible tourism. Page | 7 96727 Honokaʻa 62 Responses Residents most appreciate the friendliness and Aloha spirit of their community, where neighbors support one another and maintain strong family ties in a small, close-knit town. They value the sense of belonging, cultural diversity, and traditional Hawaiian values that foster cooperation and care. Many also cherish the area’s natural beauty, peaceful rural setting, and community events that bring people together. While a few expressed concerns about outside influences changing the town’s character, most described Honokaʻa as a welcoming, connected, and genuinely caring place to live. • Residents overwhelmingly value the people — describing them as friendly, helpful, caring, and embodying the Aloha spirit. • Many highlighted a strong sense of community, where neighbors know, support, and look out for each other. • There is a deep appreciation for the small-town atmosphere, described as quiet, safe, and close-knit, where it’s easy to stay connected and involved. • Family ties, long-time residents, and local traditions contribute to a strong feeling of rootedness and continuity. • Respondents also praised community organizations and events (like the Honokaʻa Business Association, farmers markets, and local festivals) for fostering togetherness and civic engagement. • The natural beauty and rural environment — open spaces, clean air, greenery, beaches, and the overall peacefulness — are highly valued. • Many mentioned gratitude for local culture, diversity, and Hawaiian values that emphasize generosity, respect, and cooperation. • A few residents expressed concern about outside influences and changing demographics, fearing a loss of traditional values and small-town character, but most still see the community as welcoming and deeply connected to both land and people. Page | 8 96728 Honomū 8 responses Residents most appreciate their community’s rural atmosphere, natural beauty, and sense of closeness among neighbors. • Many value the open space, farming traditions, and access to nature, while also noting the convenience of being close to Hilo and other basic amenities. • There’s appreciation for the local, small-town vibe, safety, and a shared desire for mutual success within the community. • A few residents mentioned downsides — one wished that local businesses catered more to residents rather than tourists, and another expressed financial struggles and a lack of appreciation due to economic hardship. Page | 9 96737 Ocean View 77 responses The community is appreciated for its rural beauty, affordability, strong neighborly bonds, cultural diversity, and spirit of aloha, even amid limited services and economic challenges. Rural, quiet lifestyle and open space • Many residents value the rural setting, large lots, and peaceful environment. Words like “quiet,” “space,” “privacy,” and “country living” appear repeatedly. • People appreciate the natural beauty, clean air, ocean views, and agricultural land use that allow for farming and self-sufficiency. Affordability and opportunity for homeownership • A common reason for appreciation is that the community is one of the few affordable places to buy or build a home on the island. • Residents value being able to own land and enjoy independence, even if amenities are limited. Strong sense of community and mutual support • Many comments highlight good neighbors, community spirit, and the way people look out for each other. • The phrases “we police ourselves” and “ʻohana” appear multiple times, emphasizing self-reliance, caring relationships, and grassroots problem-solving in the absence of strong institutional support. Diversity and aloha spirit • Residents appreciate the variety of people, accepting culture, and the Aloha spirit, which fosters friendliness and cooperation. • Several note the importance of maintaining Hawaiian values, mālama ʻāina, and cultural respect. Page | 10 Community resources and local initiatives • Respondents mention appreciation for local organizations such as the Ocean View Community Center, volunteer fire department, and nonprofits like Petfix. Local open- air markets and community efforts are seen as vital for economic survival and connection. Natural environment and climate • Several people cite the weather, ocean views, and tranquil natural setting as key quality-of-life factors that make the area special. Page | 11 96739 Waikoloa 209 Responses Residents most appreciate Waikoloa as a safe, friendly, close-knit place with a strong sense of community and aloha, surrounded by natural beauty and supported by convenient amenities and location. Relationships and community spirit • Neighbors are described as kind, helpful, and watchful, with many noting that people look out for each other and are ready to help in times of need. • Residents value a small-town, close-knit or “village” feel, community involvement, volunteering, and groups and churches that organize events and support local needs. • Many mention an aloha spirit, ʻohana feeling, and a diverse yet accepting community that comes together for causes, parks, schools, and those in need. Safety, quiet, and quality of life • Safety and low crime are among the most frequently mentioned positives, including feeling comfortable walking, raising kids, and retiring in the area. • People appreciate the quiet, peaceful lifestyle, relatively light traffic, and the fact that the community is mostly non-transient and respectful. • Several comments highlight that, compared to larger towns, Waikoloa still feels safer and more relaxed, though a few express concern about growth and future risks. Natural beauty, climate, and setting • Residents deeply value the beauty of the ʻāina, ocean views, sunsets, and surrounding landscape, including Mauna Kea and the broader island environment. • The dry, sunny, comfortable weather and “island life” pace are repeatedly cited as reasons they enjoy living there. • Many like being able to walk, bike, swim, and enjoy outdoor recreation in a scenic setting that still feels somewhat rural and not overdeveloped (though some worry this is changing). Convenience, amenities, and location • Residents appreciate being close to beaches, resorts, and island destinations while still living in a residential village rather than a tourist hub. Page | 12 • Local amenities such as the community pool, tennis and golf, parks, schools, churches, shops, restaurants, and basic services (grocery, pharmacy, hardware, medical) are viewed as important benefits. • Some specifically value underground utilities, good roads, repaving projects, and a generally well-maintained environment. Engagement, pride, and concerns • People praise community members and volunteers who continually show up for parks, schools, cultural education, environmental care, and helping neighbors. • There is pride in homeowners and long-time residents who care about maintaining quality of life, property values, and community standards. • A minority of responses express frustration with overdevelopment, infrastructure, affordability, and safety planning, showing that even appreciative residents want growth managed responsibly. Page | 13 96740 Kailua Kona 600 responses Residents most often appreciate the people and relationships, followed closely by the local environment and sense of safety their community provides. Many also value convenient amenities, services, and opportunities to participate and have a voice in local decisions. Relationships and support • Strong sense of belonging, friendliness, and neighbors who look out for each other. • Willingness to help, informal support networks, and small groups that “go the extra mile” for others. Safety and peace of mind • Feeling that the area is safe, with low crime and a comfortable atmosphere for families and children. • Ability to walk around, meet others, and let kids play outside without significant worry. Environment and surroundings • Access to parks, green space, and attractive natural surroundings that make daily life pleasant. • Clean, well-kept streets and public areas, often maintained collectively by residents. Amenities and services • Proximity to essential services such as schools, healthcare, shops, and recreation facilities. • Convenience of transportation options and overall accessibility within and beyond the neighborhood. Voice and involvement • Opportunities to participate in community events, groups, and local decision-making. • Feeling heard by local leaders and included in shaping the community’s future. Page | 14 96743 Kamuela 148 responses Residents most appreciate their people and relationships, the aloha spirit and Hawaiian culture, the natural environment, and the safety and small-town character of their community. Underlying these responses is a strong sense of belonging, mutual support, and pride in place, paired with a shared hope to preserve these qualities amid future change. Strong Sense of Community (Most Frequent Theme): • Many respondents highlighted closeness, friendliness, and mutual care as defining aspects of their community. They appreciate knowing their neighbors, the trust built over generations, and the willingness to help one another. Words like “ohana,” “aloha spirit,” and “tight-knit” appeared repeatedly. Aloha Spirit and Local Culture: • Residents deeply value the Hawaiian cultural foundation — kindness, respect, caring for the ‘āina, honoring kūpuna, and preserving paniolo heritage. • The “aloha spirit” was identified as a living practice rather than an idea, reflected in daily interactions and community cohesion. Natural Beauty and Environment: • People consistently mentioned the beautiful weather, mountain and ocean views, clean air and water, open spaces, and access to nature trails and parks. The rural atmosphere and connection to the land are seen as vital to their quality of life. Safety and Peacefulness: • Many residents said they appreciate feeling safe, peaceful, and comfortable in their neighborhoods, with little crime and a quiet, relaxed pace of life. Small-Town Feel and Long-Time Residents: • The small-town charm and the presence of long-time, multi-generation families help create a sense of belonging and continuity. • Several noted pride in being long-term residents and valued that “Waimea still feels like Waimea.” Page | 15 Local Businesses, Farmers Markets, and Self-Sufficiency: • Respondents valued support for local businesses and farmers, access to fresh produce, and the importance of keeping economic activity community-based and sustainable. Preservation and Cultural Stewardship: • A recurring theme was protecting the community’s cultural identity and environment from overdevelopment and outside influences. • Residents appreciate efforts to retain rural character, preserve open land, and ensure growth aligns with local values. Public Services, Arts, and Education: • Some residents mentioned good public amenities, health care, art and cultural events, and educational opportunities, as well as civic engagement and responsive local leadership. Discontent and Concerns: • A minority expressed frustration — citing overdevelopment, high cost of living, or loss of the traditional small-town feel — but even these comments reflected a desire to protect and preserve what they love about the community. Page | 16 96749 Keaʻau 189 Responses Residents most often appreciate the strong sense of aloha and community, the rural natural beauty and quiet, and good neighbors who look out for each other and help in times of need. They also value space, affordability relative to the rest of Hawaiʻi, and the ability to live a more self-sufficient, agricultural lifestyle, even while noting concerns about growth, crime, and infrastructure. People and aloha • Many residents highlight aloha spirit, kindness, generosity, and grounded, “solid” local people as what makes the place special. • Neighbors are repeatedly described as kind, close-knit, helpful, respectful, and willing to share food, resources, and support, especially in tough times or crises. • Several comments emphasize multi-generational families, long-time homeowners, and friends who become ʻohana as central to community identity. Rural character and nature • Residents appreciate the rural, country feeling, low density, and sense of being “tucked away,” with larger lots, privacy, and space to “do my own thing.” • The natural setting—greenery, beauty, clean air and water, ocean access, nearby national park, and good weather—is frequently cited as something people love most. Safety, resilience, and mutual support • Many say they feel safe or relatively safe, especially compared with nearby town areas, and value police presence and seniors’ safety. • Resilience and “strength through struggle” are appreciated, with residents noting how the community rallies, shows up to fill gaps, and works together in hard times. Affordability, space, and self-sufficiency • People value lower housing costs (for Hawaiʻi), reasonable property taxes, and the chance to have big or agricultural lots that support homesteading, growing food, and off-grid or self-sufficient living. • Access to local agriculture, farmers markets, fresh produce, and the ability to grow fruits and vegetables at home are seen as important benefits, even when prices are high. Page | 17 Small-town feel and community engagement • Residents appreciate the small-town vibe, slower pace, and being close enough to Hilo and services while still feeling removed from heavy traffic and tourism. • Grassroots groups, cultural and educational events, parks and recreation, free or low- cost services (like bus transit and community programs), and efforts to protect ʻāina, culture, and local identity are seen as positive signs of community care and involvement. Page | 18 96750 Kealakekua 38 responses Overall, residents most cherish the people, the land, and the enduring spirit of aloha that defines their community. Strong sense of community and relationships: • Many value the friendliness, caring nature, and connectedness of local residents. They mention neighborly support, long-standing family ties, and a spirit of aloha that still thrives. Local roots and heritage: • Several respondents express pride in being born and raised in their hometown, grateful that local families and “old-timers” are still present despite rising costs and development. Natural beauty and rural character: • People deeply appreciate the area’s scenic environment — the ‘āina, ocean, farms, and peaceful atmosphere. Many value that it remains more rural and less tourist-heavy compared to other places. Safety and peacefulness: • Respondents mention low crime, feeling safe in their neighborhoods, and enjoying quiet surroundings. Cultural and spiritual connection: • Some emphasize connection to culture, the ‘āina, and traditional self-sufficiency (growing food, fishing, trading goods). Local leadership and accessibility: • A few appreciate that local government leaders, including the Mayor, are visible and engaged with the community. Convenience and local amenities: • Others note practical advantages like short drives to daily destinations, good schools, and community facilities such as parks and markets. Page | 19 96755 Kapaʻau 56 responses Residents most appreciate the strong sense of community, caring relationships, and rural lifestyle in their area. Many describe the community as close-knit, like ʻohana (family) — where neighbors help one another, look out for each other, and come together in times of need or celebration. In short, residents most appreciate the people, the safety, the land, and the shared spirit of aloha that keeps Kohala connected, caring, and true to its roots. Several themes stand out clearly: People and relationships: • The friendliness, aloha spirit, and multigenerational ties create deep connections and a shared sense of belonging. Safety and peace: • Many mention feeling safe, noting low crime and a peaceful, quiet environment. Rural character and natural beauty: • Residents value the open spaces, greenery, lack of chain businesses or resorts, and the area’s charming, undeveloped landscape. Cultural and historical pride: • There is strong appreciation for local history, Hawaiian culture, and efforts to preserve Kohala’s identity for future generations. Community involvement: • People take pride in volunteering, supporting schools, organizing events, and protecting local lands and traditions. Page | 20 96760 Kurtistown 35 responses Residents most appreciate their community’s friendly, supportive people and sense of connection. • Many highlight neighbors who watch out for one another, strong relationships, and an overall feeling of belonging and safety. • They also value the rural character of the area — the quiet, open spaces, large lots, and privacy that come with living in a country setting. • The community’s natural beauty, including forests and local agriculture, adds to its appeal. • Residents appreciate local amenities and services such as the post office, farmers’ markets, grocery stores, and local eateries, noting their convenience and quality. • A number of comments mention the community’s affordability, good quality of life, and strong agricultural identity. What stands out most is a blend of people, place, and peace — caring neighbors, spacious rural living, and the natural environment that supports a simple, connected lifestyle. Page | 21 96764 Laupāhoehoe 19 responses Residents most appreciate the strong sense of community and friendly neighbors, often describing their area as a place where people help and support one another. • Many highlighted safety and the feeling that residents “look out for each other.” • They value local institutions and amenities, including the library, Papa‘aloa Country Store, Laupāhoehoe Point Park, gyms, and the Laupāhoehoe Train Museum, which serve as gathering places that foster connection. • Several noted their appreciation for local leadership (especially Council Member Heather Kimball) and responsive public services such as police, fire departments, and county road employees. • The community’s natural beauty, rural lifestyle, and quiet, simple living were frequently praised, along with the area’s agricultural roots and “old-timer” stories from the sugar era that help preserve local heritage. • While most comments were positive, one response mentioned some distrust between neighbors, suggesting areas for improved cohesion. Page | 22 96771 Mountain View 76 responses Residents most value their people, natural environment, and peaceful rural lifestyle, while also emphasizing community spirit, resilience, and affordability, despite concerns about crime and infrastructure challenges. People and Neighborliness: • The most common appreciation is for the people, neighbors, and the sense of community. • Many residents described their neighbors as friendly, helpful, and caring. Several emphasized “aloha spirit,” “ʻohana,” and community support, especially during tough times or natural disasters. Natural Environment and Rural Lifestyle: • Many valued the natural surroundings—such as the ʻāina (land), rainforests, clean air, and green, undeveloped spaces. • The area’s rural and spacious character, opportunity to farm or raise animals, and quietness were frequently praised. Peace, Quiet, and Safety: • A large number of respondents appreciated the peaceful, calm, and safe atmosphere of their neighborhoods. • Big land lots, less congestion, and minimal oversight from government were seen as positives. Community Resilience and Interdependence: • Residents highlighted how their communities come together in crises, look out for one another, and show resilience. • There is a sense of self-reliance and volunteer involvement in local projects and upkeep. Affordability and Local Services: • Several mentioned their appreciation for affordable housing and low cost of living, along with basic conveniences like paved roads, county water, the free Hele-On bus, and proximity to parks, schools, and stores. Page | 23 Criticism and Mixed Feelings: • A smaller but notable group expressed negative or mixed sentiments—mentioning crime, corruption, and dissatisfaction with certain conditions (especially in areas like Eden Roc). • Still, even among critical responses, many balanced negatives with some appreciation for people or nature. Page | 24 96772 Nāʻālehu 54 responses Sense of Community • Residents most commonly appreciate the sense of community — neighbors looking out for one another, friendliness, helpfulness, and a tight-knit, family-like atmosphere. • Many emphasize the spirit of Aloha, kindness, and respect that characterize local interactions. Rural Lifestyle • A second major theme is the rural, quiet lifestyle. • People value the peacefulness, safety, and slower pace of life, describing their area as a small town free from “big city” issues. • The natural beauty, including open spaces, mountains, ocean views, and clean air and water, is also a recurring source of pride and gratitude. Community Resources • Residents also mention appreciation for community resources and improvements, such as road repairs under Mayor Kimo Alameda, free mulch, the weekly farmers market, the national park, and local organizations like OKK and the HUB that provide food and support. Concerns • While most responses are positive, a few express concerns about affordability and change, noting that the “aloha spirit” is fading or that the cost of living may force some to move. Page | 25 96773 Ninole 8 responses Residents most appreciate their community’s peaceful, rural environment and strong sense of togetherness. • Many highlight the quiet atmosphere, clean natural surroundings, and friendly, multi- generational families that create lasting connections. • Others value the feeling of safety, well-maintained infrastructure, and community services—such as the local library, churches, and emergency response efforts—that support residents’ well-being and resilience. Page | 26 96774 ʻOʻōkala 4 responses Residents most appreciate the close-knit and welcoming nature of their community. • They value the spirit of aloha among neighbors, the presence of multiple generations of families, and the sense of connection rooted in long-standing local ties. • Many also appreciate the small, self-sustaining character of the area and the peace and quiet it provides. Page | 27 96776 Paʻauilo 14 responses Overall, the community is appreciated for being close-knit, rural, safe, and actively engaged, with a deep respect for both people and place. • Residents most appreciate their community’s strong sense of connection, rural character, and accessibility. • Many highlight the friendly, caring, and supportive relationships among neighbors and local leaders, along with an active community association that encourages involvement and open dialogue with government. • They value the slow pace and small-town atmosphere, noting the area’s farmland, nature, and lack of heavy tourism as key qualities that preserve its peaceful, safe environment. • Other points of pride include the local school’s caring staff, shared community spaces like the gym and ball field, and the community’s commitment to sustainability and tradition. Page | 28 96777 Pāhala 12 responses Residents most appreciate the strong sense of community, safety, and cultural heritage in their area. • Many highlight how neighbors look out for and help one another, creating a friendly, family-like (ʻohana) environment. • Others value the peaceful, rural setting — free from major tourism or urban development — and the ability to feel safe while enjoying the region’s natural beauty. • Several responses mention pride in local culture, traditions, and self-sufficiency, especially the Hawaiian way of life and the importance of protecting Ka‘ū’s land and heritage. Page | 29 96778 Pāhoa 173 responses Residents most appreciate the people, aloha spirit, cultural diversity, natural beauty, and peaceful rural lifestyle of their community. They feel connected to one another, to the land, and to a shared sense of care, resilience, and home. Community and Relationships: • The strongest theme is the people. • Many residents deeply value their compassionate, friendly, and helpful neighbors who “look out for each other” and come together in times of need (e.g., during lava eruptions or other crises). • The sense of ʻohana, aloha spirit, and overall community support are central points of pride. Aloha Spirit and Culture: • References to the Aloha spirit, Hawaiian culture, and respect for the ʻāina appear throughout the responses. • Residents appreciate the cultural diversity, inclusivity, kindness, and shared values that make their area feel welcoming and rooted in Hawaiian identity. Natural Environment and Rural Lifestyle: • Many responses celebrate the natural beauty—clean air, coastline, forests, and quiet rural setting. • People appreciate living away from urban centers, enjoying peace, privacy, and connection to the land. • The ability to farm or grow food and live close to nature is highly valued. Safety and Tranquility: • Words like quiet, peaceful, and safe appear often. • Residents appreciate low noise, little traffic, and a slower pace of life. Page | 30 Affordability and Self-Sufficiency: • Several respondents mention affordable housing (relative to other areas), off-grid living, and self-reliance through farming or renewable energy. These aspects contribute to a feeling of independence and security. Local Resources and Amenities: • Residents also appreciate community infrastructure such as libraries, parks, farmers markets, local businesses, and community centers. These places foster social connection and accessibility. Resilience and Volunteer Spirit: • Multiple comments highlight the community’s resilience—its ability to recover from natural disasters, help one another, and “make it work” despite limited resources. Page | 31 96780 Pāpaʻaloa 6 responses Residents values community connection, safety, responsiveness from leaders, and the shared spirit of cooperation that defines life in their area • Residents most appreciate the strong sense of community and support among neighbors. • Many mention friendliness, generosity (such as sharing food and tools), and people looking out for one another through efforts like Neighborhood Watch. • The peaceful, resilient, and welcoming atmosphere of the area is also valued. • Several respondents highlighted appreciation for responsive local representatives— especially noting efforts by Councilmember Heather Kimball—and the availability of community resources like recreation areas and services such as the Hele-On bus and Civil Defense education programs. • Longtime residents also valued the stability and continuity of families who have lived there for generations. Page | 32 96781 Pāpaʻikou 27 responses Most residents appreciate the strong sense of community, friendliness, and mutual care among neighbors. • Many highlighted how people look out for one another, share resources, and embody aloha and island values. • Others valued the peaceful, country atmosphere, large lots, and natural beauty of the area. • Several responses also mentioned safety, cleanliness, and essential public infrastructure—such as good roads, water, and waste services—as important qualities. • Overall, the community is cherished for its kindness, rural charm, and the way residents come together to support each other. Page | 33 96783 Pepeʻekeo 33 responses Residents most appreciate their community’s natural beauty, peaceful rural atmosphere, and strong sense of neighborly connection. • Many comments highlight the weather, scenic views, open space, mountains, ocean, and farmland, emphasizing the area’s undeveloped, country character and low traffic. • A large number of respondents value the closeness, friendliness, and helpfulness of neighbors, noting that people look out for each other and that the area feels safe and welcoming. • Several residents express pride in the long-standing local roots of families who have lived there for generations and appreciate the sense of continuity and tradition. • Others praise active community organizations and leaders who work to maintain coastal access, preserve natural areas, and strengthen local relationships. • Overall, the responses convey deep appreciation for the beautiful environment, close- knit community, and peaceful rural lifestyle, all contributing to a strong feeling of aloha and belonging. Page | 34 96785 Volcano 83 responses Residents most appreciate their community’s strong sense of connection, natural beauty, and peaceful atmosphere. Community and Cohesion: • Many respondents highlighted caring neighbors, mutual support, and watchfulness — people “look out for each other,” “help out,” and “take pride” in their home. • The local Cooper Center, farmers market, and volunteer efforts were frequently mentioned as gathering points that foster social bonds. Peace and Quiet: • “Peaceful,” “quiet,” and “undeveloped” were among the most repeated words. • Residents value the low noise, rural setting, safety, and slow pace of life, preferring to “keep it country.” Natural Environment: • The area’s forests, native flora and fauna (like ʻōhiʻa trees, apapane birds, and proximity to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park) are deeply appreciated. • Many mentioned “mālama ʻāina” and enjoying open spaces, starry skies, and clean air. Aloha Spirit and Values: • The responses reflect cultural appreciation for aloha, mutual respect, and stewardship—values expressed in phrases like mālama ʻohana and mālama ʻāina. Retirement and Safety: • Several kupuna emphasized the area’s suitability for a peaceful retirement, enjoying both safety and friendship among older neighbors.