HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-03-09 Letter to Mike Gabbard re HB 1884 HD1 Relating to Subsistence and Right to Farm •'''i;,'. Wil Okabe
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Harry Kim
Mayor
Barbara J.Kossow
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March 9, 2018
Senator Mike Gabbard, Chair
Committee on Agriculture and Environment
Hawai'i State Capitol, Room 224
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dear Chair Gabbard and Committee Members:
Re: HB 1884, HD 1 Relating to Subsistence and Right to Farm
Hearing Date: 03-12-18 — 1:15 pm; Conference Room 224
Although HB 1884, HD 1 is well meaning, and subsistence farming is generally to
be encouraged, I must oppose it. 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. I 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 HB1884, HD 1 could make
the situation very difficult to control.
The potential unintended consequences of this bill are too great, and I must urge
that HB 1884, HD 1 be deferred.
Thank you for your consideration.
Respectfully submitted,
Harry Ki
Mayor, County of Hawai'i
County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.