HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-09-21 Carmen Liberatore Testimony
From: Carmen Liberatore
To: Planning LPC Testimony
Subject: Bill 170 Testimony
Date: Monday, September 21, 2026 7:47:36 AM
Aloha Leeward Planning Commission members,
I understand you will be addressing Bill 170 at this week's meeting.
This email is three-fold:
1. Support the purpose of Bill 170 Section 1. It says we want to define Data
Centers and not have them included as a permitted use in Hawaii County.
2. However, Bill 170 needs an amendment. Support creating a definition of Data Centers that will help differentiate it from Data Processing Centers.
3. REJECT the planning department’s recommendation regarding Data Centers.
It is attempting to create regulations around Data Centers when we are still working
on defining what they are.
Mahalo for your time and attention to the matter which is so important for our
community. We have an opportunity to be a role model for higher levels of
government both in Hawai'i and nationwide.
As a conservation professional, my community and I are very aware of Hawai'i's
delicate and unique ecosystem. All of us on these islands are stewards and
caretakers of this special place. Our careful treatment of data centers/data processing
centers are tantamount. As a conservation professional and as a constituent, I hope
that you recognize how important it is to not move too quickly and to hopefully keep data centers from appearing on our island.
Mahalo for your time and attention.
Carmen Liberatore
28 Oliana St. Hilo, HI