HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-12 PL-SPP-2024-000075 Opposition Testimony from Katie RussellFrom:Katie
To:Planning WPC Testimony
Subject:Please vote against permit approval for Teppy Falls of Fire
Date:Tuesday, May 12, 2026 6:18:02 PM
Aloha,
I am writing in strong opposition to the special permit application by Teppy Mountain LLC
(PL-SPP-2024-000075) to host an annual multi-day festival on agricultural land in Papaikou.
Agricultural land in Hawaii is a limited and precious resource. Approving this permit would
set a dangerous precedent for the conversion of ag land across Hawaii Island.
The applicant has already held this event several times without a permit, accumulated over$34,000 in fines, and is currently appealing those fines while simultaneously seeking this
permit. This pattern of disregard for county rules does not inspire confidence that permitconditions will be respected going forward.
I also urge the commission to scrutinize the application's designation of only 14.7 acres for
festival use on a 1,400-acre property. This appears designed specifically to stay just under the15-acre threshold for a higher level of review, and does not reflect the true scale and impact of
this proposal.
Our rural communities, our farming families, and our agricultural lands deserve protection. Irespectfully urge the commission to deny this application.
Mahalo for your consideration.
Katie Russell
Ainaloa, Puna