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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSpeakOut Comments - RawDraft Hamakua CDP Community SpeakOuts April 9, 2ol6 / April 23, 2ol6 / May 7, 2ol6 Table of Contents Papa'ikou Community Center SpeakOut — April 9, 2016.......................................................................2 `Aina and Coastal.............................................................................................................................2 Waipi'o Valley..................................................................................................................................2 Agriculture....................................................................................................................................... 3 PublicAccess & Trails.......................................................................................................................3 StrongTowns...................................................................................................................................4 Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide(LUPAG).....................................................................................6 WhoTakes Action............................................................................................................................6 Flipchart in the Refreshment Area...................................................................................................7 GreenFeedback Forms....................................................................................................................7 Papa'aloa Gym SpeakOut — April 23, 2016...........................................................................................7 `Aina and Coastal.............................................................................................................................7 Waipi'o Valley..................................................................................................................................8 Agriculture....................................................................................................................................... 8 PublicAccess & Trails..................................................................................................................... 10 StrongTowns................................................................................................................................. 10 Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide(LUPAG)................................................................................... 12 WhoTakes Action.......................................................................................................................... 13 GreenFeedback Forms..................................................................................................................14 North Hawaii Education and Research Center (NHERC) SpeakOut— May 7, 2016 .............................. 15 `Aina and Coastal........................................................................................................................... 15 Waipi'o Valley................................................................................................................................ 15 Agriculture..................................................................................................................................... 16 PublicAccess & Trails..................................................................................................................... 17 StrongTowns................................................................................................................................. 18 Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide(LUPAG)................................................................................... 20 WhoTakes Action..........................................................................................................................21 Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 SpeakOut Comments Recorded on Flip Charts and Post -its Organized by Location and Station Papa`ikou Community Center SpeakOut - April g, 2oi6 `Aina and Coastal ■ Littering: We clean up a lot of trash on our road ourselves. Does support for native species mean more funding? Look to support the State Commission (K6kua Action) CDP seems to assume all forestry as just mauka. Would like to see recognition that forestry can and is practiced lowland. Be realistic about various land uses that take care of the `aina. (Depends on jurisdiction. Also, people's aspect want recognition.) "View" or "Viewsheds" seems to be defined as unimpeded ocean views. Would like to see recognition that some practices (i.e. forestry) are also taking care of `aina; also can reduce runoff. Hakalau Point development - Houses & mixed commercial/industrial on site - Proposed County Preserved; want to use CDP as justification. Enforcement - How & who will keep accountability? Example: Viewsheds - Natural pockets but land owners have their own rights (i.e. privacy) Like the layout of the boards - easy to read & follow. Can tell it has been a long, but thorough process. Hunting, fishing & gathering in coastal areas is not just recreation - it is subsistence. Any type of development in mauka areas should be restricted. (Relates to CDP mention of cultural/religious practices.) Waste diversion and reduction Climate change considerations included in CDP? Some actions point to need for research - look to partner with UH. Erosion near the singing bridge is a concern - tied to the mowing along roadway. Communication - How can Hamakua communicate better? Inter -district or intra -district? (i.e. To the rest of the island/state vs. within Hamakua. Start with Hamakua and move towards island/state.) How to facilitate new economy (post -plantation)? Littering prevention efforts - Friends of the park, community service groups, work with Dept. of Environmental Management Waipi`o Valley ■ Road to the valley should not be improved to the point of unrestricted access; should be open to residents and open for special tours (i.e. educational, school, etc.) Waipi'o "Rim Lookout" - good idea (mud lane access point) Info on any sale of valley lands should be timely, clear and accurate. Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 Change "Current Tools" -> Non -conforming uses area I I owed but regulated. (Easier to understand? Leave out "on ag land") (See Bethany...) Mill Road - Access + Ownership Plantation? Ownership? (Road) Big properties next to natural waterways Big properties' '6pala (trash) - responsible? Accountability Various rivers not cared for Lessees be responsible to malama (take care of) rivers Expand or looking at incentives to address value added ag processing Within County Planning Department: to have a person(s) to "shepherd" proposals thru the permitting process Repeated use of terms (i.e. "sweeping views" & other terminology that use the term "view" - don't get caught up with that word i.e. Unimpeded view? When ag crop is tall trees - (ulu; windbreaks) "Support financial aid program that support ag" - extend to forestry efforts Community understand there are many types of agriculture Trial programs to involve college students to envision the future use of agriculture on Hawai'i Island Agrohood = neighborhood housing development based on farming Grow own food; affordable housing, power, self-reliance Create strong relationships, business opportunities with farmers and hospitals, health care facilities (i.e. birthing center, elder care, etc.) Farmers' relationship also with pre-school, home school, charter schools, etc. Another way of thinking - instead of Ag vs. Development Target (the Store) uses office employees' food waste to make some of the compost they sell. Food Compost Depots: locations near/at transfer station Subsistence: Aquaponics for average home. Access & Trails No beach access parking on Mill Road unless residents wish to open driveways for parking, hampers access for emergency vehicles Mediation with landowners of public access on how to meet their needs and the needs of those trying to access the ocean Recognizing historical significance of old sugar mill sites that may or may not be visible. Trails may provide access to viewing historical remnants. Public access program needs to educate the public on the location of the access. Locations should be properly signed/marked. Issues regarding Monk Seal to Hawaiian Islands & Federal Gov't limiting access to critical habitat areas along Hamakua coast where beaches are less than 100 feet and issues regarding types of fish Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April 9, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 and shellfish that can be harvested which limits cultural practices. Add photos of harvest of fish/birds/plants to poster boards to increase thought process. Public access is #1 issue of the district (Wailuku to Waipi'o). Must strongly state this in the plan. Plan or agreement with landowners for County to be liable for public access on private property. Encourage universities, high schools, young tech students, etc. to be involved in GIS Land Surveys as a focused study and data compiling with multiple resources such as drones and satellite mapping. "Friends of Public Access" keep area safe & clean. Prevent illegal dumping. Letting non -profits know about public access locations to assist with cleanup. Informing Landowners that they have public access on their property Papa'ikou Mill: Public right of way 24/7 Use of old rail lines as right of ways for hiking & biking Use railroad right-of-ways as walking/biking trails. History of sugar plantations on Hamakua should be mapped and made available; include signage along Highway and promote knowledge of Mill sites. Monthly Festivals in small towns along coastline - Promote town beauty to make them destinations. Better maintenance/signage of public access areas. Laupahoehoe Boat Ramp repair should not be a high-priority item. Mail delivery in small communities like lower Papa'ikou. Traffic improvements at Mill Rd & Hwy 19 intersection. Are immigrant grave sites and burial grounds protected? If not, what options for protection are there? "Many immigrant graves along Hamakua Coast. Nothing to prevent development, but archaeological review needed to proceed with development. When Hawaiian bones found, development stops but what legal protection is available to stop development to preserve/protect "immigrant" bones. Ambulance/paramedic/firefighter services in rural areas; skeptical about implementation of services that are needed to save lives. HMC has an air ambulance on standby 24/7 - what's the accessibility to this service for rural communities? How and when to access service? How to get word out about service? Public/private partnership for a health clinic At a minimum, have a paramedic stationed at fire station(s) How do we get local families to "speak outs" and similar gatherings so that their voices can be heard? Public/private committee to explore economic development and activities of rural communities. Future isn't about building for Mainland people. Increase police visibility; maintaining roads & easements are clear; guard rails at "drops/ditch"; general ground & stream pollution & enforcement (improper/illegal disposal of chemicals, car removal, dumping); protect & support Gina. Hear responses from County (Mayor, etc.) Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2016 / April 23, 2016 / May 7, 2016 Managing Community Crime Issues (burglaries, theft, and noise pollution); increase police presence/visibility & personal interaction with residents (notjust driving by but getting to know the community) Road Safety: Maintaining/clearing road debris on side easements; guard rails in areas where there is a steep embankment; caring for pot holes; parked cars on roadways; children playing in roads unsupervised by caregivers. Pepe'ekeo bus stop need covered area and easement from makai side of community Kaha'opea St. Promote green business models: how to create business with carbon & waste management in mind. Cost benefit analysis to do solar, use Hawai'i county compostable supplies (i.e. one time use products, green business) Community Compost Depot: Drop off at/by transfer stations How to recycle workshops (County Zero -Waste & Recycle Hawai'i) Connecting university students with elders in the community through intergenerational programs such as child/elder care; elder auditing of college classes to create strong and lasting bonds within the community. Sustainability policy UH system. GSI: connecting university students with local projects to increase their learning & connection to community places & people. Affordable housing for working professionals such as doctors, nurses, contractors, teachers, etc., to provide Human Resources to communities in need of these services. Lack of coordination between services in the community to provide consistent services or health care. Livable Wage (i.e. Travel nurse makes more than a permanent nurse) Ask university students to be a part of this via their "schools" or "programs" so that they can do good and meet their educational goals (internships/residency) How can we design our own life and communities? Welfare Trap: income - allow time frame for transition; provide incentives; mandatory volunteer work if not in school or working Methods/ways to keep community members connected to what is happening in the community they live in, not work in. Community Center accessible 24/7: Calendar online; PayPal deposit Affordable housing for blue collar people; self-help projects Livable wage for a single parent with 1 child is $60K Community police officers & student resource officers work long hours to build relationships with community members. How can we continue to keep these officers in our communities beyond their 5 -year agreement? What other economic development opportunities are there besides ag & small business? What other INDUSTRIES can come about? How can we use the open spaces? Programs that allow youth/young people to explore & discover their niche in life & keep them here; teach them a skill. Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 ■ Programs to motivate youth and worthwhile to consider doing. Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide (LUPAG� ■ More town center action near post office of Hakalau - LDU Commercial ■ Rezoning should allow/require public access ■ Papa'ikou Community Center Roof/Center needs to be painted/fixed ■ Would love to see viewplane video along coast with houses superimposed along views - could be done with drones/ultralights, etc. People want better access to coast, opportunity for affordable housing along coastline (i.e. Tiny houses, agrihoods, etc.) Infrastructure innovations - Power & sewage (i.e. Kauai & Northern California capturing methane, harnessing it without needing pipeline. Effective community outreach needed Like the LUPAG proposed changes in Papa'ikou Traffic improvements at Pinky's intersection How does mapping address sea level rise or bluff failure/erosion issues? Not make Waipi'o Road so accessible that everyone can access valley; keep access limited ■ Bus stop at Pepe'ekeo Hwy area Who Takes Action ■ Small, area -specific community groups need help "voicing" concerns toward action. ■ Agencies, etc. need to conduct business to accommodate community members' availability, not the other way around. ■ Danger of Plan (CDP) being ignored. ■ Community association should have someone regularly attend county meetings, etc. Education in "how to access system/process" - how things work. City official meet with local area groups to facilitate "how to access." Entity to coordinate information/communication between State, County, and Federal Government to avoid duplicates. Weave an entity/system/process/hui that makes a palatable connection between community needs & action steps. Community needs "place at table" EARLY in decision-making. Having information to use - How to use info of CDP (i.e. land use) NOW with current projects. "Revitalization" is a RED FLAG word - need clear definition & parameters. Bring together collaborating entities with common needs or opportunities. How to keep people informed regarding small area -specific groups? How to inform of "rights"? How to safeguard rights? How to access available resources, procedures, etc.? Suggestion: Create strong, small neighborhood links thru establishing Kumiai-type groups. Crucial to have timely follow-up & follow-thru on raised issues. Who follows thru? Focus group on existing proposed projects exploring multi-use/function on parcel Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 Who takes action? Hawai'i Wildlife Fund, Recycle Hawai'i, Friends of the Park, Surfrider Foundation, UH -Hilo Sustainability Committee, Blue Zones HMSA, CERT (Civil Defense), RSHCA, Keep Hawai'i Beautiful (Keep America Beautiful Affiliate), CHORE Services, Natural Farming Hawaii, Health & Wellness. Suggestion: "Friends of Public Access" needs to be created to address illegal dumping, maintenance of trails, etc., responsible waste diversion and management. "Buy Local" - Definition needed. What's local (i.e. support a local guy or a local product)? Where does wholesale come from (ground or China)? Ulupono as a resource for local/pono. ■ Who's responsible for bus stops? Flipchart in the Refreshment Area ■ K6kua action difficult as agencies operate in "silos" ■ Community representative designated as "public relations" coordinator - manages communications between community & various agencies (i.e. local, state, federal, etc.) Would likely need to occur on a level even more specific than Hamakua Gathering & maintaining momentum towards community change among community members important Draft CDP mentions financial incentives for growing specific crops (i.e. taro, etc.) Why not incentivize broader agricultural production and forestry to promote good use of ag land? (More general incentives for farmers, foresters, etc.) ■ Does the maintenance of BLM land create lack of natural resources to communities who desire to be self-reliant? Green Feedback Forms ■ For upcoming event (speak out) - use multiple sturdy, non -glass road signs with bright colors; 2 in each direction. 1) CDP 1 Mile Turn Ahead, and 2) CDP time & date posted day before (in time to catch evening traffic/morning traffic) Papa`aloa Gym SpeakOut - April 23, 2oi6 `Aina and Coastal Building resilience for climate change - reforestation, watershed planning, sustainable agriculture Appreciate distinctions in plan between State & County but disconnect in Policy to Action **(+11) Environmental fines should be applied - stiff, no recourse Road to Laupahoehoe Point viewplane is being lost (trees blocking) - State probably has capacity to fix/clear: need to coordinate. - A lot of other views that could be opened on the Mamalahoa Hwy. Invasives - should have a "white list" - what should be brought in, up to individuals to show why something should be brought in. Black list is limited. Watersheds are the continuity between Mauka-->Coastal - Critters within need protection Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 Eucalyptus trees need to be taken care of - what is the plan? Just going to grow back? - KS land - Fire danger "No ... anything that blocks the view of mountains and ocean" is unrealistic - related to forests: before there were natural forests. Access issues are always a concern. Park development at Ha'ina Landing - historic Pa'ahau Mill Site: is clean up necessary? Comes with time. Recycling access - carbon footprint by driving Need space for recreation activities like regional park - space to bike, jog, etc. - Utilize open space for community to gather. Shoreline setback - Coast should be public; Rivers should be too- access; Language saying "Have to have an access trail.." Laupahoehoe scenic lookout - Plantings (landscaping) are blocking view. Public Lookout but Private Land - what can County do? Viewplane next to scenic lookout be preserved by keeping all plantings no higher than rooflines - Kona ruling on private covenant was ruled in favor of limiting plantings to roof) i ne. Keep Waipi'o protected as it is & allow public access, even if it gets sold. Partnership - i.e. Gov't & NGO (like Nature Conservancy) to determine possible future. How can Waipi'o manage the threat to the valley of things like dengue, etc? (Tourists bringing threats into valley) Re: Non -conforming Ag Land use: How can we ensure people don't misuse this and not have stronger consequences? Small fines for big over -steps is not acceptable. How do we manage the "overuse" of the valley? Possibly having to limit access? In other places, people got together, purchased the lands & put it in a trust to assure perpetuity. Maybe that can happen here - either privately, in partnerships, or by the State. Maybe we can set up a lending bank/loan fund to be accessed by the people who work the land & want to buy from Bishop Museum (the land they already steward). Leave decision up to the people of the valley County and/or State should fund the portable toilets by the beach and located on K.S. Land to support public access to the beach. Critical for the current residents/farmers to speak with "one voice" before actions can proceed. Agriculture ■ Partner with NHERC on Resource Preservation Be able to live on your farm land in an economical way Need cohesive definitions between Tax & Planning Departments about what is agriculture & some way to enforce it. Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 Make "micro" incentives for smaller taro patches. Community taro gardens, neighborhood taro patches (20 years is mind boggling!) How much taro would you need to grow to get an incentive? We are 3 acres - more smaller ag parcels (ag 5) Pesticides/Herbicides are a concern because of the residue in soil and runoff in streams to oceans that affect marine life and beneficial insects as well. Conflict between GMOs & organic - isolate GMOs to protect organic farmer interests Concern about ag & vegetation waste (i.e. cuttings) - no recycling facility in North Hilo; have to go down into Hilo. Should have more facilities in this area. Concern about lack of regulations regarding vacation rentals on ag land. Availability of land for small farmers; Ability to live on land you farm; Connection to the land you farm is very important; Property costs=Challenge. Don't have the younger generation engaged in farming. Need to get kids out there both in the forest & fields. Need more programs to support this. How do we get kids to support smaller, local ag? Farm to school; more nutritious food Need more sustainable, local food. Need to provide more locations for farmers to do value - add commercial kitchen, etc. Using ag land for non-ag purposes doesn't support sustainable ag; it diminishes it. Things are built & turned into vacation rentals which is not ag-use of the land. Sometimes don't find out about something being built until after it's done. Need more notice of non-ag projects on ag land so the community can be involved. Value added Ag essential to profits so really need commercial kitchen to be accessible cheaply; profitable farmers & use of farmers. Concerned that ag lots are used for intended purposes (i.e. not gentleman farms or vacation rentals. Green waste in Pa'auilo - There's nowhere to go. We have to throw it away (truckloads) if we don't make our own compost. Distribution & food prep (commercial kitchen) is very expensive so people we know can't use it. How are we able to isolate organic farms from GMO so they can keep their designation? (Costco is willing to buy but there's not enough local, organic options. Ag land should be used as intended. Should not encourage farm land to be converted to residential. Bishop Estate - what's the plan for the Eucalyptus? Long-term plan? Before & After; Private land but County can find out. Lease 4 years; required to remove all trees & kill new ones; first right of refusal to be biofuel; trying to ship Eucalyptus out as quick as possible. Point of contact for ag leases? Buy local Spend our money to have a better way of life. Hakalau Food SHARE (see Facebook) Tuesdays 3-6pm at Hakalau Veteran's Park; example of what we can do to feed each other; emphasis on organic; completely open to public Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 Hawaii Agricultural Land Use Baseline - check it if you haven't already Need County definition of "rural" Hard to be economically sustainable & do ag Ag is a business -->incentivize: water, real property tax benefit -->revisit w/new definition of rural; smaller lots, diversification, group structures, controlled growing environment. Community Natural Farming - spaces for inputs (created & stored); infrastructure (already spending on research & development. Ag research centers in every community - subsets that can make up a bigger network. Shared equipment and machinery Important - Residents need access and use of Laupahoehoe boat ramp. Kids don't have much to do - need access to trails — alternatives Trail behind Minit Stop reopened for hiking or biking to Laupahoehoe Point Old Mamalahoa Hwy Easier process to obtain camping permits from County More access mauka, makai through roadlands with permit Take coastal views into consideration when permitting new construction. (i.e. Laupahoehoe Point Lookout and control overgrowth that may obstruct views) Too many ball fields, not enough trails Increase or add shoulder for bicyclists on Hwy Community lacking walking/biking trails. Increase width of bike lanes on Hwy. Trails would increase overall health of people within the community. Add parks with walking trails. Would increase safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. Allow expansion of Ala Kahakai Trail in Hamakua. Protect and re-establish historic trails in Hamakua. Connect Ala Kahakai Trail with East Hawaii Bring international tourism through pedestrian, hiking and bicycle trails. When increasing shoulders, precautions must be taken to prevent falling debris. Maintain trees on Old Mamalahoa Hwy to allow for alternate path. County acquire (possibly thru PONC) - trail leading to Kukuihaele Breakwater and trail/road to Kukuihaele Lighthouse. In permit approvals, require lateral public access along top of cliffs to maximize the public transit corridor. Laws for drug addicts that require rehab - but programs that develop skills - would help to change things Pa'auilo needs its own recycling station. It's not cost effective to drive/haul. Need mulcher for organic mulch. Place to put bottles and cans in Pa'auilo Need to renovate Papa'aloa gym + annex + tennis courts. Need enforcement of dog + motorbike rules at parks Who to call with immediate concerns w/facility (i.e. lights on, doors open, etc.)? Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April 9, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 New volleyball area next door like Keaukaha! Tennis courts after. Vacant properties not being maintained Options for non -motorized transportation (i.e. shoulder lanes) Clean shoulder and bike lane Roads in limbo - How to ensure that public is able to access these roads. Concern is that adjacent landowners are allowing them to become overgrown to the point that it is inaccessible. Approval and development of Hakalau - PONC for a sugar plantation heritage park Provide a safe, level footpath around the perimeter of the Papa'aloa ballpark for elder community to exercise & walk. Rural transportation network for non -vehicle transportation. Bike & hiking trails - we would exercise if there were some place to go! Some of our mauka roads close from high water during storms. We need alternative routes or redesigning current access. What is KS plans post -eucalyptus? Who do we call to get info for leasing land? Funding for Laupahoehoe Pool - Maintenance/improvements - Use of pool is increasing Uncover historic site on the Hilo side of Maulua gulch: train infrastructure Why do places have the names they do? History & Stones, Connection Preserve scenic views & maintain them Hamakua has little Heiaus, what's next? Uncover & preserve sugar plantation history; increase sense of place, community, character Honomu is dead but our town is so quaint & that can be used. (Post it note: hard to read handwriting) Understand Blair Rd access - gate restrictions Hard to make ag economically viable. Stranded between gulches CERT teams need help with mapping area Catchment vs. County water when county water is inaccessible due to disaster Educate public on PONC Add more green waste recycling Access to the certified kitchen for initial value added processing, juicing, smoothie making, kimchi, salad mix making, sandwich making for sale down at the Point or in Bed & Breakfast Our gym makes it more possible to be healthy without the expense of driving to town (which lowers the level of cash you need to be happy), Build a new, taller place for volleyball (For actual user numbers call Flo Pua 895-7066!) We should be able to sell orange squeezed from our own oranges at any market, especially if the customer is watching. Using a cutting board makes it a health department "No -no." This is not even commonsense. Basic value, added with economics, transparent marketing and customer reaction being instantaneous, should prevail. How about I have liability insurance for possible disappointed customers, and the health department follows common sense? D. Sheehan 962-6247 Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 Need a mulcher for ag waste More assistance with invasive species, too few staff Gastro tourism Isolation due to flooding Central and spaced out food storage for disasters; community food storage Provide a playground in the Laupahoehoe area (across from Post Office) for the local Keiki Why don't we have highway rest stops, picnic areas? Vandalism, tourists - need control Highways should be required to have rest stops Health care & transportation for elderly. County property in limbo - need assistance in making it available for local business use - next mayor Example of Hakalau Farmers Market - true community food sustainability Isolation/Sinkhole/Disaster/Communications - relying on rumor to know what county plans for roads - information meeting to make info available; radio announcements and cell coverage very spotty; when is relief coming? Not every road is appropriate for visitor traffic Inter -island ferry - Support local business Don't think Hamakua is appropriate for heavy industrial uses. Industrial uses should be evaluated on a case by case basis & with local community approval/support. GP states heavy industry should not be placed next to residential - should be considered when evaluating industrial areas. 'Aina Manna Legacy Land - (Look it up) DHHL unfunded plan Ditto first comment above. (Re: Hamakua not appropriate for heavy industrial uses.) Papa'ikou Point should stay Ag as proposed on LUPAG maps. No erosion control measures at Ninole Development - Residential too close to shoreline, houses will fall into ocean. Repeat current and proposed for LUPAG and put on North/South/East/West. Industrial changes along coast make sense to remove. Historic bridges not useful if can't be seen - only costs taxpayers more money to maintain or rebuild. Everybody says protect ag but system isn't working - works for bigger parcels but not for smaller - In order to have successful ag, you need ag knowledge & input from farmers - Need large acreages available (like 500 acres) leased at reasonable rates. State controls huge amount of land. Example of O'6kala Coastal Area State Owned. County also tying up hundreds of acres of ag land. Everybody against growing the trees but it was the largest investment since sugar & it provided jobs. Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 Ag area mauka outside Waipi'o - Area needs reliable water to farm - 10 acre parcels leased, cannot live on - Aren't successful farming - Can't even store equipment or tools Mauka areas traditionally built without permits because permits were hard to get Plan to disallow catchment? Future boomers needing to downsize Create community with low density with community gardens, communal laundry, kitchens, etc. Bring the community together through density - businesses, residences, etc. & create spaces for community to meet/gather. Ninole Coastal subdivision going into ocean Landslides along Hakalau coast (happened when dry) Shoreline setback should be top of cliff Special permit process key/cornerstone to rural economy (Flexibility should be built into the process) Papa'ikou Point near Mill Rd should be Urban Residential since infrastructure is right there. Landowner not clear about why the Ag -Urban line was drawn along this road Need to help our homeless & drug addicts - come up with a plan Laupahoehoe Farmers Market - limited - needs to grow more organic - needs to expand what's "allowed" NHCC (North Hilo Community Council) viable, respectable, credible group to funnel community- based projects through for coordination & consensus -building Need core group to promote health & wellness (mental health, diabetes, etc.) - rural areas get little attention Encourage more vendors & organics at local farmers market County needs way to meet community halfway on needs of public access, acquiring & maintaining ongoing management of area How do you "bridge the gap" between State & County in a way to support County Plans/Planners to be able to facilitate actions/plans/projects? Need another level of How to elevate status of County to have effective partners at State & have more priority? Not a question of money, but of using expertise, resources, etc. Current "processes/procedures" NOT working well Lack of response or acknowledgement of receipt from State agencies to resident concerns/comments (i.e. Hakalau landslide: no response on coastal resource; i.e. Endangered Hawksbill Turtle & Monk Seal What's the priority?? Not consistent Efforts to address coastline setback issue WAS HELPFUL; top of pali designation Discussion with Chip Fletcher (UH Manoa) on sea level rise & its effect on coastal stability. Need to have dialogue at all government levels to ensure County issues are prioritized in funding from those levels. Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April 9, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 WAILEA FOOD SHARE HAKALAU - as a model of how to get things done, take care of each other as well as other activities within community - taking back vacant buildings/land, bridging local & new- comers. (Example of intercultural exchange of plantation era) Demo "good stewardship" Knowledge of past & elevate same values & behaviors that worked so well before. Pohaha i Kalani - Waipi'o Valley Left Foot Steppin' - Volunteer Org Wa'a Hamakua - Navigation Teaching Big Picture: Need to think about connection of Waipi'o Valley to Mauna Kea in a resource -minded perspective. Management should be allocated accordingly to community resource use Recycling center not available in each community (i.e. Pa'auilo needs a simple bin at each transfer station) Rules & Regulations toward vacation rentals on ag land Cocktail hours after elections suggested as a way to get our priorities known to State & Federal Recorder was informed that a resident (informed & active) participated in "Talk Story," yet refuses to participate any further because does not see references to his input (especially regarding Senior Care) - disengaged from process and feels things were left out Several comments received that "processes" DO NOT work because they try to FIT comments into existing, rather than explore new venues/ways ISSUE: Within County jurisdiction vs need to VOICE A VALUE STATEMENT Develop a program to encourage families to grow n ulu tree; how to cook ulu. Give ulu tree and train on care of tree. Plant ulu & other edible vegetation at parks, public spaces and schools. The county regulations regarding honeybees should be reviewed. I think currently an apiary (size/number of colonies not defined) must be 1,000 feet away from a non -Ag zoned boundary. This is not based on what is known about honey bee behavior. There are U.S. cities with ordinances permitting rooftop apiaries on high rises and backyard hives (number of hives limited) in residential neighborhoods. What should happen if the farm plan that enabled a second farm dwelling to be built fails, or is simply not being honored? The relaxing of building permit requirements for ag accessory buildings had good intentions but many unanticipated, potentially negative consequences. The regulations need to be fine-tuned! Waipi'o Valley has several ancient Hawaiian trails that are well-documented on historic maps. The County should work with State DLNR - Na Ala Hele to determine whether any of these publically owned trails (per the Highways Act of 1892) should be earmarked for public use. I realized this will require many considerations: community sentiments, flood plains, kuleanas, current land uses. Note: The historic maps show trails outside of kuleana boundaries. Thanks so much for providing this important informative event. I believe the direction of the CDP as presented here is pointing toward right action. Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 This presentation was well thought out. Can't imagine a better overview. Each of the storyboards and volunteers were/was interesting and informative. Really happy I came. Thank you for the hard work and positive energy. Gastro tourism, community food storage, invasive species help, flood wastes isolation, mulcher Playground for kids Papa'aloa gym needs renovating (to Keaukaha gym height) How can we help as a community? North Hawaii Education and Research Center (NHERC) SpeakOut - May 7, zoi6 `Aina and Coastal ■ Viewsheds makai/mauka important in cultivating holistic stewardship systems -understanding interconnectedness of mauka/makai regions Keep "development" in urban corridors -keep'aina-->'aina Public park areas along coast Hamakua's depleted mauka forests need to be restored to restore watershed vitality ■ Streams & springs dry in Hamakua - Watershed restoration needed Waipi`o Valley ■ Even understanding residents' desire to limit access, it would be good to be able to continue public access (for excursions, hiking, visiting, enjoying nature, etc.) ■ Current toilet facilities are disgusting and represent ourselves poorly, especially to visitors (at the lookout.) Concern about the safety of public access and how lots of things connect to that. Stream maintenance is the issue, notjust emergency response. Need continuing & policies to enable it. Permitting process needs to change. What are the implications of the changes that could come with the sale of Bishop Museum's lands? Ranger Program: Could use 2 P/T ranger positions in addition to the current 1 F/T position. -Continued collection of crucial info is very important. -COH & public need to understand the role & responsibilities of the ranger positions. -Also, what are the "legal" consequences of un -advisable actions of visitors? Accountability issues/Enforcement *Weddings (large wedding gatherings) *4 -Wheel Drive (2 -Wheel) *Camping Need to understand the roles & responsibilities of ranger positions There should always be "guided tours" by local families with roots for visitors of the valley. -It could be used to subsidize maintenance of roads, river, farmers, etc. Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2016 / April 23, 2016 / May 7, 2016 We should pay attention to Waipi'o's productive past as a template for today; -Prior to 1800's, there were 20,000 (pa?) living in the valley servicing the surrounding areas, all the way to Puako; thriving community. -The valley can easily support a well -thought out visitor experience. State to support such efforts above, encouraging partnerships with residents. -Figure way for $$ earned to stay in the valley. Shoreline squatting a big problem & a health issue Sewage management is an issue. -Can look at organic means to address it. Recognize innovative ways to deal with invasive pests (i.e. apple snails=escargot) Re -test the fallow lands (closer to shore) to see if salt content has diminished enough for production. Commentary: At one time, Waipi'o Valley was able to support 20,000+ residents as well as feed the rest of the island during times of drought & famine. Chief Hi'ilawe spoke of "sharing" Waipi'o Valley with visitors from other islands (the person of the place creating its own visitor industry). We've actually regressed in a number of ways in our attempt to "protect" this special place. We need to understand the rhythm of the valley and work it rather than try to control it. Priority on understanding & responding to the influx of invasive species especially as it relates to food production. -Attention to border/points of entry Need to live in balance with nature Some kind of education for beginning homesteaders as an alternative to corporate agriculture Inter -island shipping produce; what about super -ferry? -Shipping /transport costs Water conservation - recommendations for farmers on irrigation -Incentives for farmers to make efficient use of water (maybe state grants to develop model programs Resources about crops & where they grow best (for new farmers) Charge military fair market value & give farmers $1/year leases -subsidize farmers instead of military Who/how ag lease rates are set? Watershed/re-forestry: mauka to makai corridors (unbroken) to maintain & restore waterways/clouds. Agriculture education/exposure for kids (especially local kids) Certified kitchens on state lands - state supported More locally grown food sold locally - processing & sales at one location Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 Promote healthier cattle -i.e. lowline cattle - higher production per space; better quality; smaller breed -Need slaughter facilities for beef & poultry Organic poultry (eggs & broilers) Increase access to organic compost & mulch (in each region) -Process highway & road -trimmings for compost Local food to local schools Organic -only Zones Locally grown blueberries? (Regarding: Expand Agriculture Market Opportunities (i.e. Branding for Hamakua products & buy local campaigns) Helps smaller farmers to be able to grow stuff. (Regarding: Provisions allow farmers to live/work on land) County Public Access & Trail Program would be great island -wide -Could be resource for tourists so they know what they can access -So many trails/roads but no records County should listen & take action on obstructed roads -Homestead Roads Hazards block access on trails -Is there any "groundtruthing" to see what is actually there? Waipi'o Cultural Center -People get experience without having to tread upon it. Hard to find where the trails are -Not a lot online -Visitor info Good to have facilities - water, restrooms Community-based action from the 'Ahualoa Community Association via board member, Pete Sparks -Opened trails -->Complicated due to private property on trails that existed Learning how to walk within our communities again Public access roads need to be safe -Know carrying capacity -Some were walking trails - now with trucks & cars -Need to be maintained regularly (not only during emergencies) - work together with COH -In Waipi'o, the streams are like roads Share responsibility maintaining remote areas -Pack in/out *Accountability: know consequences -Stay on trails *Accountability: know consequences Draft H -am Rua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 Brochures & Videos informing visitors of special places that are hard/dangerous to access. -Be general about protecting & perpetuating these places *Know how to act if visiting What does access mean for maintenance? -Scheduled hours? -Dates closed that public is informed about? What is public vs. private when it comes to access? -historic trails -laws -highways act Use of trails -difference between access to home or resources & tourism (i.e. horseback rides) -balance in sharing access (i.e. beach/shoreline in Waipi`o) Policy/guidelines for cultural/spiritual/sustenance practice? -Pros & cons for both -People can take advantage Overall, things need to be defined -How do we make certain places accessible in clear & defined way? How to measure setback & corridors from cliffs? -Currently not very clear. People whose yards extend towards cliff build fences -Should be reprimanded for blocking access Should increase information boards at trailheads -If certain trails get a lot of traffic, should be a ranger on hand to inform -When trails get heavy traffic, people start going off -trail & onto private property -Info Boards: *Map *Info pack of what is in area, no-go zones, what is on the trail so they know what they saw Clear middle & sidelines & median reflectors are very helpful, especially at night & in the winter when it rains heavily. Add moku/ahupua'a names/boundaries -capture mo'olelo of place Happy with what is here in this section of the CDP (heritage & history). I hope it happens. Priority of bridge safety Penalty for contractors for going beyond the time of their project? Or, work at night & close off more lanes to finish under budget & early. - How is time factored into decisions on contract proposals? (Notjust cost) Draft H -am Rua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 Mass transit options being considered? Train? -Maybe something the tourist industry could support for residents? -Bus? Hop on/off? Road/street/highway lighting -A lot of the lights don't have shields (so no directed lighting). Light is allowed to go off to the side & not directed to the road/street/highway. -Suggestion: Use LED lighting and/or put shields on existing lighting Too bad to have lost the pharmacy & we need to explore having a pharmacy in Honoka'a -Access to medication for seniors and young people -face to face rapport with a pharmacist is important for health care and information on how medication counteract with each other Need more fire stations. My insurance wouldn't cover the total value of my home & property. They didn't count the volunteer fire station in Pa'auilo. Is the volunteer fire station active? More restroom facilities A visitor center "Lack of cell phone coverage and internet service" -Build more towers or alternative technology that provides better reception Senior care as an industry should be pursued -good fit with lifestyle Lack of affordable properties/rentals -limited income for home purchase Appreciate Historic Honoka'a Town except limited parking Bring in industries that are eco & community friendly Growth that mirrors the integrity of community Electrical vehicle charging stations -Is there a plan to dedicate a certain amount of stalls to charging stations? Complete construction of water infrastructure at site near Tex Drive -Inn Before I go to work & after I come home - stores are closed. Would like some access to stores. Seems like hours are geared toward visitors & retirees. Tapping into cultural heritage --> Create package deal--> Passing Thru-->Guided tours by local Aunties & Uncles -Mauna Kea, Waipi'o, Waterfalls, etc. -Use of technology Up the hill (right before get to the mart) zoned for parking -parking -bus access Culture Center as a Visitor Center - Help small businesses Draft H -am Rua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 -Get out info, maps: we can develop points of interest -Work with Heritage Center Each town finds its niche (particular crops, other?) -Allow small industrial lands by these towns -Build (centralized?) processing facilities for communities -->package-->sell -Need certified kitchens Having clear center and sidelines and median reflectors are very helpful. Water Issues: Well at Ahualoa drilled and 12" pipe being built to bring water to Honoka'a. On Jack's property, 15,000 gallon tank. He gave an acre to State to have it be built there. Affordable Housing: Market value is really high ($350K -$420K), unaffordable to average local family unit. Is there enough water to support current & future neighborhoods and neighborhood developments? A recognition of town history. Civic or town historic markers highlighting a walking tour or pathway to discover town charm. This nurtures civic pride, town walkability & economic stimulus for businesses. This way, we nurture civic pride and a mindset that "Honoka'a" is a stop along the coast rather than a "drive-thru town." All of this makes a healthy additive that enriches community. Make progress on affordable & senior housing opportunities. Explore economic growth that mirrors the integrity and character of Honoka'a town. For example, Elder care residential & treatment facilities (as we have 50 -bed hospital here and elderly population.) Explore specific tweaks to zoning code that would make it more cost effective for developers to create affordable homes, multi -unit homes, or inter -generational homes to rent or sell at affordable prices. Signs at district/moku boundaries 2 Separate O'6kala trails up mauka (umi koa) Gated roads - Homestead: COH-DPW not responding to complaints; government roads should be accessible (Pa'auilo Mauka) CDP can speak to reforestation of mauka areas: incentive to take cattle down to lower areas & reforest mauka areas Forest corridors to restore watershed: 100ft each side of gulches restores native species, water quality Allow more industrial/processing in each area for farmers Only 2 certified kitchens in area Draft H -am akua CDP Community SpeakOuts April g, 2o16 / April 23, 2o16 / May 7, 2o16 Who Takes Actior ■ Like to see some "teeth" - when city agency contacted; no response -MAMA (Mauka Makai Access Hamakua Ag Plan) still intact & able to mobilize if have reason to & wants to be heard. Need ag support - resources, information, marketing support Need to work with developer to lower construction cost to aid availability of affordable housing. -Residential housing village should be allowed/considered. -Multi-generational use houses - expanding current'Ohana housing to allow for multi -kitchen Support community growth - no commercial growth Make presentations at Ahualoa Community Association - Meeting to gather input/information Create systems that perpetuate & maintain what we already know - what we innately know but have forgotten; avoid the current status of keep starting over only to fail again; adopt ways & methods that return us to basic know-how that works, survives & thrives -Simple & genuine Hawaiian Cultural Center & Community Center/Space -Talking with Heritage Center + -Goal: Central place for visitors -Intro -Maps (points of interest) - send out; connect -Corridor to Coast/Waipi'o Valley -Community-Owned & Operated: Independent model & co-op away from corporate; each group take care of itself -Started with Kickstarter: $20K for 1yr operating -Place-based -All Activities in-house --> $$ stays in-house -Reducing some regulations & costs