HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-08-18 Carrie Kimmel Support TestimonyFrom:Carrie Kimmel
To:Planning LPC Testimony
Subject:Support for Kona Gym
Date:Tuesday, August 18, 2026 7:15:06 AM
Attachments:Support for Kona Gym.pdf
Aloha, Please see attached letter regarding my support for Kona Gym. My daughter hasattended their gym multiple times as part of summer camp and collaboration between our gym
(in Kauai) and their gym. Thank you,-Carrie K
August 10, 2026
Leeward Planning Commission
Attn: Chair Dean Au
Application # PL-SPP-2026-000128
RE: Letter of Support for Kona Gymnastics and Special Use Permit Application
Aloha Chair Dean Au and Members of the Leeward Planning Commission,
I am writing in strong support of Kona Gymnastics] and its Special Use Permit Application #
PL-SPP-2026-000128.
As a member of the gymnastics community on Kauaʻi, I have personally experienced the importance of this
facility and the tremendous value it provides to athletes, coaches, families, and gymnastics programs
throughout Hawaiʻi. Our gymnastics team travels to Kona Gym annually, and this facility is one of the few
locations in the state that has the space and capability to host gymnastics competitions, including State-level
competitions.
For programs on the neighboring islands, access to a facility like Kona Gym is especially important.
Opportunities to travel, compete, train, and learn in a properly equipped facility are essential to the growth and
development of our athletes. The loss of this facility would have an impact that extends far beyond its local
community.
Equally important is the leadership and knowledge that Kona Gym provides to the gymnastics community
across our state. They have consistently supported other gyms and athletes, sharing valuable resources,
experience, and knowledge with coaches and athletes from programs throughout Hawaiʻi. Our own athlete and
coach have benefited directly from this support, and we have been able to bring that knowledge and
experience back to our gym on Kauaʻi to share with our athletes and coaching staff.
This spirit of collaboration is one of the things that makes Hawaiʻi’s gymnastics community stronger. Kona Gym
is not simply a place where gymnastics takes place—it is an important resource and gathering place for the
broader gymnastics community. Its ability to host competitions and provide opportunities for athletes and
coaches from across the state makes it a facility of statewide significance.
For these reasons, I respectfully ask the Leeward Planning Commission to approve the Special Use Permit for
Kona Gym. Maintaining this facility is important not only to the athletes and families it directly serves, but to
gymnastics programs and communities throughout the entire state of Hawaiʻi.
Thank you for your consideration and for recognizing the importance of preserving facilities that provide
meaningful opportunities for Hawaiʻi’s youth and athletic community.
With sincere aloha,
Carrie Kimmel, Mom of a Gymnast with Garden Island Gymnastics
nelsoncarrie@gmail.com
(808) 755-8212