HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-02-20 Letter to Sylvia Luke re HB 1884, HD 1 Relating to Subsistence and Right to Farm (2)Harry Kim
Mayor
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Wil Okabe
Managing Director
Barbara J. Kossow
Deputy Managing Director
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553
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February 20, 2018
Representative Sylvia Luke, Chair
Committee on Finance
Hawari State Capitol, Room 308
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dear Chair Luke and Committee Members:
Re: H 1884, HD 1 Relating to Subsistence and Right to Farm
Hearing Date 02/22/18 — 11:00 am, House Conference Room 308
Although HB 1884 is well meaning, and subsistence farming is generally to be
encouraged, I must oppose HB1884, HD I. As stated in the testimony of the
Department of Agriculture, the unintended consequences of this bill may be substantial.
We can anticipate that elevating subsistence farming to the same level as
commercial agriculture will cause problems that have already been flagged by several
State departments and agencies. 1 would add that there are numerous residential
subdivisions on agricultural land (particularly on the Big Island but elsewhere as well),
which are made up of relatively small lots and where we must recognize that some
agricultural activities can constitute a nuisance, such as the raising of pigs or chickens.
Protecting against neighborhood conflict is important, and HB 1884, D 1 might make
the situation very difficult to control.
1 regretfully urge that H
1884, HD 1 be deferred.
Respectfully submitted,
Harry Kim
Mayor, County of Ha ar
County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.