HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-13 PL-SPP-2024-000075 Opposition Testimony from Elizabeth Claire VanamanFrom:Kukui Nui
To:Planning WPC Testimony
Subject:So no to commercial events on agricultural land
Date:Wednesday, May 13, 2026 9:08:47 AM
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 commercial festival on agricultural land inPapaikou.
Agricultural land in Hawai'i is a limited and precious resource which can ensure food security
for the people of Hawai'i during a time when shipping costs have reached unprecedentedhighs. Approving this permit would set a dangerous precedent for the conversation of ag land
across Hawai'i 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 does not inspire confidence that permit restrictions will berespected going forward.
I also urge the commission to scrutinize the applicant's designation of only 14.7 acres for
festival use on a 1,400-acre property. This appears to stay just under the 15-acre threshold fora 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. I
respectfully urge the commission to deny this application.
Mahalo nui for your consideration.
Elizabeth Claire K.K. Vanaman
Puna district