HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-02-21 Letter to Donovan M. Dela Cruz and Gilbert S.C. Keith-Agaran re SB 3090, SD 1 Relating to Government (Mauna Kea) (2)Harry Kim
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Wil Okabe
Managing Director
Barbara J. Kossow
L)ptity ltdanaging Director
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February 21, 2018
Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Chair
Co ittee on Ways and Means
Hawai'i State Capitol, .00m 2:11
Honolulu, HI 96813
Senator Gilbert S.C. Keith-Agaran, Vice -Chair
Committee on Ways and Means
Hawai`i State Capitol, Room 211
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dear Chair Dela Cruz, Vice -Chair Keith-Agaran and Committee Members:
Re: SB 3090, SD 1 elating to Government (Mauna Kea)
Hearing Date: 02/23/18 — 10:30 am; Conference Room 211
As much as I appreciate the interest this Legislature has in resolving issues surrounding
management of our beautiful and sacred mountain, Mauna Kea, I cannot support SB 3090, SD 1. On the
other hand, I also appreciate the foresight it takes to have a legislative vehicle available, in case action is
necessary to implement a solution that fulfills the mountain's destiny and the desires of the parties. If that
is the goal of SB 3090 and SB 3090, SDI, I applaud it.
Mauna Kea can be a symbol of international cooperation. The mission of the place is to be a
beacon of hope for the world, The vision includes bringing world recognition of the Hawaiians, their
achievements as well as the wrongs done to them. The mission of this mountain is not just to showcase
that, but to showcase to the world the beauty of the cosmopolitan people of Hawaii and the possibility of
harmony and peace. Where else, out this little place in the ocean, to have countries commit to that?
To a lot of people, Maula Kea is not a place for science, it is part of their soul. If we are going to enter
into that sacred space, we must do so with care and caution and compassion.
In truth, the leg slature may not be the best forum to resolve the conflicts surrounding Mauna Kea,
as much as you would like to help. However, the current management structure is based on statute, and
therefore any reform may have to be e shrined in statute. SB 3090, SD 1 is an attempt to contribute to
the mission, but the legislation that can resolve our conflicts has not yet been written.
I respectfully request hat the Legislature pause in its well leaning efforts, for fear that it may
escalate the war. My recommendation would be passage of an 3090, SD 2 that leaves out all
specifics and is virtual, a "short 'arm" bill, and allow the process to continue.
espectf submitted,
Harry Ki
Mayor,County of Hawaii
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