HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOMM. 155 Kramer, M - Land Fund1/19/10
Members of the Charter Commission,
While others will offer arguments about the cultural and environmental importance of purchasing sensitive
lands (particularly in a down market),I am writing to you primarily because I do not wish you to take any
action to reduce the 2%for Land special fund on procedural grounds.This measure was placed on the ballot
in 2006 and the people of this island already decided (with a 63%affirmative vote,which qualifies as a
mandate)about this budget allocation.The temporary economic difficulties of our island are not relevant to
this issue,as this is an issue of permanent priority.The people decided that purchasing these sensitive lands
is such an essential purpose –more important than many other county activities –that it deserved to be
removed from the everchanging political process,which we see now is in full effect.The people decided
that they wanted permanent assurance that this use of public funds would always occur,not sometimes or
only during the boom years.It would be very presumptuous for the Charter Commission to presume that
the people of this island no longer feel this way;as such,I urge you to allow the will of the people to stand
and not overrule the popular vote.Doing so would be a violation of the legitimate democratic process that
has already occurred.
Thank you for your consideration,
Michael Kramer
Managing Partner,Natural Investments LLC
Founder,Kuleana Green Business Program of the KonaKohala Chamber of Commerce
3310910
P.O.Box 390595
Keauhou,HI 96739
COMM. 155