Comm No 0003.01.45 - Testimony - Ad Hoc - PONC fund and Maintenance fund

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HAWAII COUNTY CHARTER COMMISSION 1:30 P.M. DECEMBER 14, 2018 WEST HAWAII CIVIC CENTER TESTIMONY FROM SUSAN DURSIN, SOUTH KONA Aloha Chair Adams and Commission Members: My name is Susan Dursin. I am speaking today on my own behalf. While I appreciate the work of the Charter Commission, I also want to thank members of the PONC Commission. Their work in carrying out the voters' wishes is much appreciated. I am opposed to reducing or capping amounts for land acquisition. Voters who passed the PONC Charter amendments had the long view. They were not thinking in ten or twenty year horizons. They wanted protected open space for future Big Island residents, and they were willing to spend certain amounts to that end. Yes, the fund may accumulate, but having a large amount available, and having it protected in perpetuity allows the purchase of favored, highly valuable property when it becomes available. It also ensures interest in matching funds. I ask that the Ad Hoc Committee continue their review of Charter provisions relating to PONC. The report includes no interviews with members of staff, commission members, groups applying for maintenance funding, or organizations with land conservation experience. Much can be learned by continuing the review, especially about process. There is no doubt that PONC could be administered more effectively. It was clear early on the Parks and Recreation had their hands full, besides having a bias that does not necessarily favor PONC. Moving PONC to Finance would be an improvement. The fact remains, however, that there is no one with the time and authority to focus on negotiating land purchases, monitoring maintenance and management, and setting up matching funds. PONC badly needs staff, dedicated wholly to PONC. They can be paid out of PONC funds. Once again, I thank you for your service on the Charter Commission, and thank you for considering my testimony. Comm. No. 3.1.45