HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-08-31 Maria Gacula Support Testimony
From: Maria Gacula
To: Planning WPC Testimony
Subject: Strong Support for Special Use Permit Application – Keaʻau Benioff Health Center
Date: Monday, August 31, 2026 12:36:19 PM
TO: Windward Planning Commission
VIA EMAIL: WPCtestimony@hawaiicounty.gov
HEARING DATE: Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.
SUBJECT: Strong Support for Special Use Permit Application – Keaʻau Benioff Health Center
Aloha Chair and Members of the Windward Planning Commission,
My name is Maria Gacula, and I am a resident of Keaʻau. I am writing to express my strong support
for the Special Use Permit application for the Keaʻau Benioff Health Center.
Access to reliable, comprehensive, and timely healthcare is one of the most critical needs facing the
residents of East Hawaiʻi, particularly across the Puna and Kaʻū districts. For too long, families,
keiki, and kūpuna in our region have faced significant geographic barriers, long drive times, and
limited local medical resources when seeking routine, urgent, or specialized care.
As someone who lives and works in this community, I see firsthand how our family and neighbors
need accessible medical services nearby. My parents visit the East Hawaii Health Clinic for their
medical care. While we are immensely grateful for the quality of care they receive, having expanded
services integrated into the new Keaʻau Benioff Health Center ensures that they and our kūpuna can
access care conveniently without navigating unnecessary transportation hurdles.
I respectfully urge the Windward Planning Commission to approve the Special Use Permit for the
Keaʻau Benioff Health Center so this essential project can move forward without delay.
Thank you for your time, consideration, and dedication to the health and safety of Hawaiʻi Island
residents.
Mahalo,
Maria Gacula
Community Member / Local Business Owner
16-1311 Pohaku Circle
Keaʻau, HI 96749
(808) 366-2682
maria.gacula@gmail.com