2025-09-01 PL-REZ-2025-000083 Opposition Testimony from Kahualani Aitken

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From: Kahualani Aitken To: WPCtestimony Subject: Testimony Regarding Proposed Rezoning Application to CV-20 Date: Monday,September 1,2025 6:00:01 AM Dear Commissioners, I am writing to respectfully submit testimony regarding the application to rezone the subject parcel to CV-20. If approved, this rezone would set a precedent for neighboring lot owners to apply for commercial rezoning. Such development would likely result in pin-to-pin clearing of native `ohi`a forest and extensive paving for parking lots along the Old Volcano Highway frontage. This type of land use change would have lasting environmental and community impacts. We strongly support appropriate commercial development in Volcano village. However, according to a local realtor, there is already a significant amount of unused commercial real estate in the village (such as the properties next to True Value Hardware). Additionally, there is a lot currently for sale next to Eagle Cafe within the already approved commercial zone that could potentially be utilized or swapped for this purpose. It is also important to note that the proposed parcel is located outside of the intended commercial zone as identified in the Puna Community Development Plan (PCDP) and the Volcano Community Development Plan (VCDP 2015). Furthermore, under the Hawaii County General Plan 2045, the area on Old Volcano Highway above the post office is designated "Low Density Urban," where the primary use is residential with only ancillary community and convenience-type commercial uses. The post office and areas below are designated "Moderate Density Urban," where village and neighborhood commercial uses are intended to be located. For these reasons, I respectfully request that the rezoning application be denied.