HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-09-08 Sumi Takeishi Opposition Testimony
From: Sumi T
To: Planning LPC Testimony
Subject: Testimony
Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2026 9:16:51 PM
Commissioners,
We already have Hawaiian Telcom in Kawaihae and UH
Hilo Data Centers.. even though they are not large-scale
data centers we need to stop anymore from establishing
data centers here.
The cons are high power usage where we are already
struggling to provide economical power to the residents
and add this power hungry plant will only raise the prices
for us, the residents. Not only drain our electricity but our
water and wastewater facilities. Where they can build is
not the question. To me, they are not welcomed here no
matter what.. no for residential, no for commercial, no for
industrial, no for Ag lands, simply no for Leeward Hawaii
Island
Concerns include, • Potential expansion of data centers and their cooling-water needs • Increasing industrial demand for electricity and water • Protecting Hawaii’s freshwater aquifers from overuse and contamination • Maintaining healthy streams, wetlands, forests, and watersheds • Protecting drinking-water supplies for island communities • Preserving water needed for agriculture and traditional Hawaiian practices
• Balancing economic development with long-term environmental protection
The debate isn't about opposing technology—it's about protecting Hawaii's water for families, agriculture, native ecosystems, and future generations before approving projects that could place additional strain on limited supplies.
Mahalo, Cheryl aka Sumi Takeishi