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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-01-14 Cultural Resources Commission MeetingCULTURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I MINUTES January 14, 2026 MEETING LOCATION: Hybrid in-person and interactive video conference through Zoom with live observation through YouTube. The in-person location was held at the Puna Conference Room – Hawaiʻi County Building, 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1501, Hilo, HI 96720. The full YouTube video of this hearing can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGVfU90br4Y COMMISSIONERS PRESENT IN PERSON: Matthew Clark (Chair), Darde Gamayo, Roberta “Kuʻulei” Keakealani, Kealohanuiopuna Kinney, Janet Six, and Aaron Spielman. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT VIA ZOOM: Desmon Haumea (Vice Chair). ALSO PRESENT: Jean Campbell, Deputy Corporation Counsel; Bethany Morrison, Planning Program Manager; Kim Tanaka, Planner IV; and Ashley DeVera, Board Secretary. Vice Chair Haumea provided a pule to open. Chair Clark called the Cultural Resources Commission (CRC) meeting to order at 10:10 a.m. A quorum was established with seven members in attendance. It was announced that pursuant to Act 220, Session Laws of Hawaiʻi 2021, which amended the Sunshine Law to allow meetings to be remotely conducted online, effective January 1, 2022, the Cultural Resources Commission meetings will be held online, with an in-person location for the public to provide testimony. The meeting can be viewed live online, and a link to YouTube can be located on the County website, as well as links to reports and surveys reviewed at this hearing. Commissioners were reminded that only one person may speak at a time and were asked to raise their hands to be recognized before speaking. Commissioners were asked to introduce themselves and in accordance with the Sunshine Law, identify any member(s) present within the household. Vice Chair Haumea reported being alone in his location. Staff introductions were made. There were no addendums or supplemental agenda items. Cultural Resources Commission January 14, 2026 Minutes Page 2 of 12 STATEMENT(S) FROM THE PUBLIC At 10:12 a.m., Chair Clark opened the floor to receive public testimony. Procedures for testimony were provided. There is a three-minute time limit on each agenda item; statements must relate to items on the agenda. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 4:21] No testifiers were present on Zoom or in person. Public testimony closed at 10:12 a.m. OLD BUSINESS OF THE COMMISSION 1. Kawaihae’s Significance to Hawaiʻi’s History and Concerns Regarding PotenƟal Loss of Historic Resources – Site Visit Report Location: Ahupuaʻa of Kawaihae 1 & Kawaihae 2, South Kohala District, Island of Hawaiʻi [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 4:42] This agenda item was called to order at 10:13 a.m. Chair Clark provided the site visit report, and Ms. Jojo Tanimoto was available to provide updates. There were no members of the public present, and no public testimony was provided. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 5:53] Ms. Tanimoto reported that the Department of Hawaiian Homelands (DHHL) was working on its Hawaiʻi Island plan and that the Kawaihae historic and burial sites were not included. She stated that the unexploded ordnance team had not visited Kawaihae in approximately eight or nine years. Ms. Tanimoto further reported that Makahuna Gulch had no watershed and had eroded onto Kawaihae Road and into the harbor. As a result, people were unable to fish because the sediment level was higher than the water level. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 5:53] Chair Clark provided the site visit report. The CRC Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) had been established on August 13, 2025, to investigate and identify potential actions to support the protection of Kawaihae’s history and historical resources. The site visit was conducted on October 15, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Attendees included Chair Clark, Commissioner Keakealani; Planning Department staff Bethany Morrison, Maryam Palma, and Kim Tanaka; and members of the public Jojo Tanimoto and Eddie Akau. The group initially met at the canoe storage area, where they spoke with Ms. Tanimoto and other community members present and discussed the purpose of the visit and the locations to be visited. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 9:10] Ms. Tanimoto and other community members expressed concerns regarding potential development in Kawaihae and the impact on historic and cultural resources that were not always being considered or addressed. Ms. Tanimoto emphasized the importance of raising awareness that protections are available for these sites. The first site visited was Kawaihae Harbor, where the group discussed several issues, including Makahuna Gulch. It was noted that significant runoff was entering the harbor, preventing fishermen from Cultural Resources Commission January 14, 2026 Minutes Page 3 of 12 being able to fish and contributing to ocean pollution. The group discussed how deforestation caused by goats, dry conditions, and wildfires had contributed to erosion, which could seriously affect natural and cultural resources. Commissioner Keakealani noted that Mr. Akau is a lineal descendant of the area. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 11:36] From Kawaihae Harbor, the group observed Kawaihae Bay and surrounding landforms and landscapes and discussed various issues affecting the area, including harbor expansion plans and proposed roadway improvements. Ms. Tanimoto stated that at Makahuna, the U.S. Army had blasted the mountain, which contributed to erosion flowing into the harbor. She noted that she had attended an unexploded ordnance meeting and inquired about mitigation measures. It was reported that an environmental assessment was being conducted for the harbor and that the area was planned for use as a gravel pit. The next site visited was the former location of Kealahou Church, where graves are present. It was noted that this was the original missionary church established when missionaries first arrived in Hawaiʻi, with permission from Kamehameha. The site also contains a crypt for Isaac Davis. It was further noted that John Young had a home within the National Park area, which is already registered. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of formal protections for the crypt and churchyard, and it was noted that the previous church had burned. Commissioner Keakealani provided historical background on the area. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 15:00] The next site visited was adjacent to the Blue Dragon Restaurant, the former location of the Kawaihae Jail. Concerns were raised regarding flooding in the area, including flood channels that could threaten the structures, as well as the need for ongoing upkeep in light of the planned harbor expansion. Ms. Tanimoto noted that the harbor expansion included plans to add two lanes on Kawaihae Road to improve access to and from the harbor, as large vehicles had frequently damaged the guardrails. Ms. Tanimoto requested assistance with registering these historic sites or receiving training related to their protection. It was also noted that expansion of the area was being considered due to increased traffic traveling to and from Kohala. Additionally, it was noted that an original water well had once been located in the area. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 17:17] The final site visited was the macadamia nut processing area, from which the DHHL project was visible. Ms. Tanimoto expressed concerns that the face of the mountain was beginning to erode and questioned how Forbes Cave would be addressed if development were to occur in the area. The group observed older buildings and discussed the displacement of the community. Ms. Tanimoto shared concerns regarding future management, protection, and stewardship of the area. Based on these discussions, Chair Clark and Commissioner Keakealani worked with staff to develop a recommendation letter on behalf of the Commission. Potential actions discussed Cultural Resources Commission January 14, 2026 Minutes Page 4 of 12 included identifying funding opportunities to support the listing of historic properties. It was noted that funding is available through the State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) for nonprofit community groups to assist with stewardship, protection, and listing of resources on the state or national registers. Chair Clark reported that he had attempted to contact Jessica Puff of SHPD but was unable to reach her and expressed interest in inviting her to provide a presentation on SHPD programs and funding opportunities. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 20:05] Additional considerations included hiring outside expertise or developing expertise within the community to assist with the identification and listing of significant sites and features. As an immediate action, it was suggested that the CRC draft a letter recognizing Kawaihae’s unique landscape, sense of place, and significant contributions to Hawaiian history, and affirming the importance of advancing preservation initiatives to safeguard the area’s natural and cultural resources. It was noted that the Commission could vote at the next meeting to amend or strengthen the language of the letter. Further immediate actions discussed included providing recommendations to the South Kohala Community Development Plan (CDP) Action Committee (AC) regarding potential amendments to the South Kohala CDP to emphasize the significance of Kawaihae’s cultural history and resources and identifying potential funding sources to support long-term preservation efforts. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 21:34] Commissioner Six requested clarification from Ms. Tanimoto regarding whether the intent was to register Kealahou Church with the state register, the national register, or both; however, this was unclear at the time. It was noted that Forbes Cave is protected. Chair Clark stated that further discussion would occur at the next meeting. Chair Clark further noted that the Commission could help by providing resources that Ms. Tanimoto and the community may not be aware of, including compiling a shareable folder of prior archaeological studies, cultural history work by Kepā Maly, and state- and nationally registered sites, along with a corresponding map. He added that at the next meeting, the Commission could provide additional suggestions and links outlining what has been protected and what work has been completed in the past. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 23:13] Ms. Tanimoto noted the need to include the reinterment cemetery. She explained that burials had been removed from the harbor area, and some of these were non-Hawaiian burials, which were relocated to the side of the highway across from the harbor entry. The remaining Hawaiian family burials were relocated to Kohala Mountain Road, next to Kohala Ranch on the boundary line. She stated that the community was requesting that DHHL expand this area in case additional burials are encountered during development. DHHL was also seeking more land in Kawaihae that is currently under lease. Ms. Tanimoto noted that there are unidentified trails that should also be documented and included. She recommended that the CRC attend a community meeting at the Kawaihae Community Center to further engage with the community. Cultural Resources Commission January 14, 2026 Minutes Page 5 of 12 [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 25:25] Chair Clark stated that this concluded his site visit report. He noted that staff would circulate the draft letter prior to the next meeting, at which time the Commission could review, discuss, and provide recommendations. This matter concluded at 10:33 a.m. 2. ʻĀinakō Subdivision Housing Project Consultation Request (PL-CRC-2025-000022) Location: Ahupuaʻa of Punahoa 2 and Piʻihonua, South Hilo District, Island of Hawaiʻi TMK: (3) 2-3-030:001 (por.), 004, and 2-3-031:001 (por.) [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 25:49] This agenda item was called to order at 10:33 a.m. Chair Clark recused himself and Commissioner Spielman assumed the role of chair for the remainder of the discussion. Chair Clark left the meeting at 10:33 a.m., and quorum was confirmed with six commissioners. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 26:38] There were no members of the public present, and no public testimony was provided. Mr. Benjamin Barna, a consultant from Stantec, was present to provide a presentation and answer questions, along with Mr. Neil Erickson from the Office of Housing and Community Development (OHCD). [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 27:25] Mr. Erickson explained that the proposal involved a subdivision for affordable housing that would extend from Kilikina Street, connecting to Waiānuenue Avenue. He noted that the project is located on a 60-acre parcel, bounded on two sides by other properties, including state lands. Chair Spielman asked about the higher-density zoning, and Mr. Erickson clarified that approval from the County Council would be required. Chair Spielman also inquired whether the workforce housing would be dedicated to people who work in the community. Mr. Erickson confirmed this and added that the housing would be available to individuals earning up to 140% of the area median income, who would live in the units rather than rent them. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 30:43] Mr. Barna briefly reviewed the presentation from the previous meeting. Chair Spielman asked whether the area had ever been bulldozed. Mr. Barna responded that one small area had been bulldozed, but once it became a water reservation, it had been left undisturbed. He noted there was likely some water damage, pig activity, and rocks removed by people, but no extensive bulldozing had occurred. Commissioner Six asked whether coral or shells were present, and Mr. Barna responded no. He noted, however, that a handful of ceramics were found near one of the house sites, along with bottles, a shovel, and a hoe. He reiterated that no subsurface testing had been conducted during this phase of the project. Mr. Barna added that he would like to continue discussions with SHPD going forward. Cultural Resources Commission January 14, 2026 Minutes Page 6 of 12 [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 40:18] Chair Spielman requested a map showing density overlaid with the archaeological sites. Mr. Barna presented the map from the earlier presentation. Chair Spielman then inquired about preservation and data recovery. Mr. Barna explained that all sites shown in purple were proposed for data recovery, while sites in orange were designated as preservation and interpretation areas. He further clarified that the map was a draft version based solely on surface archaeology conducted to date. Commissioner Six noted that the first hospital was located in the area in the 1890s and mentioned considerations regarding epidemics, given the presence of mounds and the proximity to the current hospital. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 45:09] Chair Spielman asked what the backup plan would be if subsurface testing, data recovery, or site clearing uncovered something significant. Mr. Barna responded that testing would need to be conducted and emphasized that the project is still in the early design phase. He stated that if something is found, they would assess whether it can be preserved and, if so, whether it needs to be preserved in place. He noted that SHPD has not yet reviewed the project, and that data recovery would occur only after receiving SHPD’s determination letter. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 46:56] Commissioner Six asked how far down they would reach groundwater. Mr. Barna responded that groundwater had been observed emerging from springs in the area. Commissioner Six expressed concern about stable building locations and asked whether place names in the area had been reviewed. Mr. Barna replied that he had discussed this with Noah Gomes, who provided a few place names and shared his knowledge of the area. Mr. Erickson noted that there is very little soil in the area and that it consists mostly of lava flows. He added that the history of the lava flows could be reviewed and an update could be provided later. Commissioner Kinney asked about the age of the lava flows, and Mr. Barna responded that they range from 11,000 to 30,000 years. Commissioner Kinney noted that these flows are part of the Mauna Loa lava flow. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 53:32] Commissioner Keakealani commented on the place names and the puʻu in the area, noƟng her concern regarding water, housing, and the potenƟal clearing of areas that may contain historic and cultural sites. She emphasized the need to proceed with caution. Commissioner Six added that site selection should be done carefully to avoid impacting culturally significant sites and to remain mindful of the wetlands. Vice Chair Haumea noted that the presentation reflected a thriving community. He shared that he had visited Kūpuna from Kaumana and individuals who had worked at the old Hilo Hospital. He further remarked that waiwai nui was considered wealth by his ancestors. Cultural Resources Commission January 14, 2026 Minutes Page 7 of 12 [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 1:03:55] Commissioner Kinney shared his thoughts regarding the untold history of the area. He noted that the site is notable because it is part of the old Mauna Loa lava flow, which occurred in only a few locations, approximately five percent of the area. He added that the area contains a swamp with the potential to preserve botanical materials over long periods, serving as a sort of a “memory bank.” Commissioner Kinney emphasized the need to consider how preservation in the area would be managed and recommended dating the rock walls. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 1:09:21] Commissioner Gamayo commented on the importance of conducting further research to identify the mounds in the area. She expressed concern that development could destroy the area, leaving nothing behind, and emphasized the need to document the story of the site so it can be shared. She remarked that the future is tied to the past and stressed the importance of preserving that history. Commissioner Six added that quantifying historic resources is relatively straightforward, but the more difficult task is properly qualifying and understanding the significance of historic areas. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 1:19:52] Mr. Erickson clarified that under HRS 201H 46-15, experimental housing, allowing for multifamily housing within RS-10 zoning. He explained that the development could include two-story townhouses without individual yards, but with shared common areas, community centers, play courts, and preserved and protected spaces. Commissioner Keakealani reiterated Commissioner Kinney’s earlier comments regarding the “memory bank” and emphasized the need to consider what preservation measures could be implemented and to what extent. At 11:33 a.m. the commissioners took a recess, and the meeting was called back to order at 11:39 a.m. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 1:32:15] Chair Spielman asked if there were any further questions for Mr. Barna or Mr. Erickson. With no additional questions, he requested a motion. Commissioner Gamayo moved that staff be directed to draft a letter summarizing the comments made during the meeting and present the draft to the Commission for review and approval at the next regular meeting, and that the CRC continue to be involved with the project as a consulting entity. Commissioner Six seconded the motion. No further discussion occurred. A roll call vote was taken, and the motion passed with six ayes (Gamayo, Six, Keakealani, Kinney, Haumea, Spielman). This matter concluded at 11:45 a.m. Chair Clark returned to the meeting at 11:46 a.m., and quorum was confirmed with seven commissioners. Cultural Resources Commission January 14, 2026 Minutes Page 8 of 12 NEW BUSINESS OF THE COMMISSION 3. Review and Comment on Proposed Testing Strategy for an Archaeological Inventory Survey for the Hawaiian Island Fiber Link Project (PL-CRC-2025-000038) Location: PACRC and UH Hilo, Waiākea Ahupuaʻa, South Hilo District, Island of Hawaiʻi TMK: (3) 2-1-009:001 (por.), 2-1-009:041 (por.), 2-1-011:004 (por.), 2-1-011:005 (por.), 2-1- 011:010 (por.), 2-4-001:167 (por.). [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 1:38:31] This agenda item was called to order at 11:46 a.m. There were no members of the public present, and no public testimony was provided. Ms. Mara Mulrooney, a senior archaeologist from Pacific Legacy, Inc., along with Mr. Cliff Miyake, the chief operating officer from Ocean Networks, Inc., was present to provide a presentation and answer questions. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 1:41:07] Ms. Mulrooney noted that this was the second time the project team was presenting to the CRC. She explained that a letter regarding Section 106 consultation had been sent by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in September, and the CRC had submitted their comment letter in November. The purpose of the current meeting was to continue discussions under Section 106 and HRS Chapter 6E and to review the archaeological inventory survey testing strategy. Ms. Mulrooney provided a brief description of the project, which involves connecting six islands in the Hawaiian archipelago which has cable landing sites on Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Oʻahu, and Kauaʻi. The two project areas on Hawaiʻi Island are the University of Hawaiʻi (UH) at Hilo, Pacific Aquaculture and Coastal Resource Center (PACRC) and the Cable Landing Station at UH Hilo. She explained that the cables would come onshore at PACRC, connect to existing overhead lines and infrastructure to the UH Hilo campus, and then run underground in existing conduit, with a short segment of new conduit proposed. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 1:44:32] Mr. Miyake stated that the project began in 2022. He reported that the U.S. Treasury Department awarded the State of Hawaiʻi a $101.7 million grant from its Capital Projects Fund to support critical infrastructure improvements. He explained that the State identified inter-island high-speed internet connectivity as an essential infrastructure need. Mr. Miyake noted that the total project cost is estimated at approximately $125–130 million, with the remaining balance to be funded by Ocean Networks. He further stated that the UH was designated by the Lieutenant Governor’s Office as the State’s representative to provide oversight for the project. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 1:46:05] Mr. Miyake explained that the project will connect all six islands through five segments, with a total statewide length of approximately 400 miles. On Hawaiʻi Island, the cable will land in Hilo as part of what is called Middle Mile Infrastructure. The fiber-optic cables will be surface-laid within channels on the ocean floor between the Cultural Resources Commission January 14, 2026 Minutes Page 9 of 12 islands, brought ashore into a beach manhole, and then connected to existing infrastructure, including telephone poles. The cables will then be routed to the cable landing station, where the bandwidth traffic will be terminated, allowing users to connect and distribute the connectivity inland to homes and businesses. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 1:49:38] Mr. Miyake presented a map showing the cable route from the PACRC to the UH Hilo campus. He explained that UH Hilo was selected because it is state-owned property, the State is a partial owner of the system, and several communications companies are already located on campus. He noted that extensive technical research, engineering, and community outreach were conducted, through which the project team gained a deeper understanding of Puhi Bay and the importance of protecting the bay, as well as its cultural practices. Mr. Miyake explained that the project will involve boring underground beneath the land and the bay, extending as deep as possible before emerging at a punch-out point on the ocean floor approximately 1,200 feet offshore at a depth of about 30 feet. He stated that this approach is intended to avoid interference with nearshore gathering and cultural practices. He added that sand channels between coral formations will be used to avoid impacts on coral reefs. Mr. Miyake further noted that one potential benefit of installing surface conduit is the opportunity to collaborate with the UH Marine Education and Research Center (MEGA Lab) to install underwater cameras, which could provide real-time imaging for educational use by schools. He also shared that during community meetings in Keaukaha, concerns were raised about the loss of oral history as kūpuna pass. In response, he stated that the project plans to include an on-island representative to record oral histories and cultural practices in collaboration with the UH, with the intent to digitally preserve and share these materials online. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 1:55:13] Ms. Mulrooney reported that the project team was working with Tetra Tech on the preparation of the draft Environmental Assessment (EA), Cultural Impact Assessment (CIA), and Ka Paʻakai Analysis. She noted that a literature review and field inspection had been conducted and would be included in the EA, which was anticipated to be published the following month. She further explained that the team was developing an appropriate testing strategy for the Archaeological Inventory Survey (AIS), as requested by SHPD, which would include subsurface testing. Ms. Mulrooney noted that four previous archaeological studies had been conducted within half a mile of the project area. These studies identified several architectural historic properties associated with the Keaukaha community and the development of Hilo Harbor. She provided a list of these historic properties along with a map showing their locations. Cultural Resources Commission January 14, 2026 Minutes Page 10 of 12 [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 1:57:30] Ms. Mulrooney reported that a field inspection was conducted at the project location as part of the literature review and field inspection (LRFI), following background research that indicated no previously identified historic properties in the area. During the inspection, large tanks associated with the former wastewater treatment facility were identified; these are currently used by the PACRC for research purposes. She also noted that a platform known as “Piggy’s Point” was identified through input from community members and SHPD. The platform was built in honor of Uncle Piggy, who was known to enjoy fishing and gathering at that location. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 2:00:23] Ms. Mulrooney stated that the project team had reached out to all CIA participants, as well as various organizations and Native Hawaiian Organizations (NHOs) involved in consultation for the project. She reported that feedback was received from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA), which encouraged frequent consultation, particularly prior to initiating AIS field testing. She noted that many participants recommended the inclusion of not only archaeological monitors during construction, but also cultural monitors from the community. Ms. Mulrooney further reported that within half a mile of the UH Hilo campus, 11 previous archaeological studies had been conducted, which identified several sites. She noted that the UH Hilo campus itself is historic, having been established in 1947, and referenced specific historic features and buildings, including a concrete culvert, the Wentworth Building, and the Business Education and Technology Building. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 2:04:26] Ms. Mulrooney outlined the next steps for the project, which included continuing consultation efforts. She reported that the AIS had been submitted to SHPD and that the AIS testing strategy would be refined through consultation with cultural descendants from each ahupuaʻa, NHOs, other consulting parties, OHA, and the Island Burial Council. This concluded the presentation. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 2:06:09] Chair Clark recommended making an effort to reach out to the archaeology program and include students in the process to provide them with practical experience. Commissioner Spielman requested clarification regarding whether archaeological monitoring would occur at both Puhi Bay and UH Hilo, and Ms. Mulrooney confirmed that it would. Commissioner Keakealani questioned the water table and whether trenching would affect the wai. Ms. Mulrooney responded that AIS testing would extend down to the water table, but that project construction would occur below the water table. Commissioner Keakealani expressed concern about movement in the kai and potential impacts to coral or reef resources. Mr. Miyake responded that this was a possibility and explained that divers had mapped the cable route, including paths through coral and sand channels between coral formations. He stated that sleeving the cable would protect it from movement caused by tides and that over Cultural Resources Commission January 14, 2026 Minutes Page 11 of 12 time the cable would bury itself in the sand, further securing it. He added that in other projects, coral has grown on the conduit. He also noted that in international waters, a buffer area extending several feet on either side of the cable restricts seabed mining, creating a protected corridor along the ocean floor. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 2:12:42] Commissioner Gamayo asked how the cable would be repaired if it were to break. Mr. Miyake explained that a repair vessel would be deployed using a route position table to locate the break. A remotely operated vehicle equipped with robotic arms would be sent to dive down, grapple the cable, and bring it up to the ship. The damaged section would be removed, a new span of cable installed, and the cable lowered back to the ocean floor with a buoy before repeating the process on the other side. He further explained that the cable strands would be fused together using high pulses of light, rewrapped for protection, and then returned to the ocean floor. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 2:15:22] Chair Clark asked whether the testing strategy would involve mechanical excavation, and Ms. Mulrooney confirmed that it would. With no further questions, Commissioner Spielman moved that staff be directed to prepare a letter summarizing the comments from the meeting for Chair’s review and submission to the appropriate parties. Vice Chair Haumea seconded the motion. No further discussion occurred, and the motion passed with a unanimous aye voice vote. This matter concluded at 12:25 p.m. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS 1. Approval of minutes for the meeting held on December 10, 2025. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 2:17:16] Vice Chair Haumea motioned to approve the minutes as circulated; seconded by Commissioner Keakealani. No discussion occurred. The minutes were approved without opposition with a unanimous aye voice vote. 2. Election of Chair and Vice Chair of the Cultural Resources Commission for the year 2026. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 2:17:31] Chair Clark opened the floor for nominations for Chair and Vice Chair. Chair Clark received two nominations for Chair (Six, Gamayo) and accepted. A roll-call vote was taken. Chair Clark received seven aye votes (Six, Gamayo, Haumea, Keakealani, Kinney, Spielman, Clark). [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 2:19:21] Vice Chair Haumea received two nominations for Vice Chair (Gamayo, Clark) and accepted. A roll-call vote was taken. Vice Chair Haumea received seven aye votes (Gamayo, Clark, Haumea, Keakealani, Kinney, Six, Spielman). Cultural Resources Commission January 14, 2026 Minutes Page 12 of 12 3. Next meeting tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, 2026. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 2:20:33] Chair Clark asked staff for any additional announcements. Ms. Morrison stated that the State Preservation Plan is being updated and that meetings will be held on each island, likely within the next couple of months. She noted that the draft plan would be posted for public review and comment and that she would keep the Commission updated. Chair Clark asked whether all commissioners could attend the meetings. Ms. Campbell responded that attendance was allowed, and if a commissioner could not attend, they could provide a report at the next meeting. [SEE YOUTUBE TIMESTAMP – 2:22:50] Commissioner Spielman noted that he had read, years ago, a report from the Kona Historical Society about Kawaihae and the road that was constructed there. He also mentioned Certified Local Government (CLG) funds and stated that he would like to add this topic to a future agenda, possibly with a presentation by someone knowledgeable on the subject. Ms. Morrison noted that they would like SHPD to attend and provide an overview of what the program is, how the funds could be accessed, and additional details. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, a motion to adjourn was made by Commissioner Six and seconded by Commissioner Spielman. The meeting was adjourned at 12:42 p.m. with a unanimous aye vote. Vice Chair Haumea provided a pule to close. Respectfully Submitted, Ashley DeVera, Board Secretary A T T E S T : Matthew Clark, Chairman Cultural Resources Commission for Matthew R Clark (Mar 10, 2026 08:44:39 HST) A