Group News: Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, and Oʻahu
Hawaiʻi Island Group
Hawaiʻi County General Plan 2045 Comment Period Ends March 1, 2024
By Chuck Flaherty, Hawaiʻi Island Group Chair
As the March 1st deadline approaches for members of the general public to submit comments on Hawaiʻi County’s current draft General Plan 2045 (GP2045), the county planning department has taken little to no action to address some of the most serious of concerns raised to date.
Despite the concerns described below, the Hawaiʻi Island Group (HIG) encourages Sierra Club members and members of the general public to take the time and make the effort to provide comments on the GP2045, in the hope that those comments will be incorporated at some point in the process before the final legislation is passed. Click here to read the draft General Plan and provide feedback.
Also, in order to facilitate public comments, HIG strongly encourages our members and residents of the Hawaiʻi Island to urge the county planning department to:
Address universal complaints about the limitations inherent in the online platform and software that members of the public must use to review and comment on changes to the existing 2005 General Plan and Land Use maps.
Provide a listing of all changes by parcel made to Land Use maps with explanations for each change.
Provide a listing of all substantive changes from the text of the 2005 General Plan with an explanation for each change.
With regard to #1 above, the GP2045 was presented to the public via an online “document engagement platform for government” by a mainland consultant, Konveio. A review of the Konveio website makes it clear that this complicated platform is most often used within and amongst businesses and government agencies. In those few instances where it has been used for gathering public comment, it is also clear that the Hawaiʻi County Planning Department did not present and use the platform in its public meetings as other government agencies had in theirs. Other government agencies presented sections of documents at each meeting for public review, discussion, Q&As, and comment. On the other hand, the planning department held “informational meetings” with no formal presentation or Q&A sessions. It also held informal community meetings in which the Konveio online platform and its two softwares were presented and demonstrated along with the content of the entire GP2045. Yet these meetings rarely exceeded two hours. In order to make comments, a member of the public still must have the appropriate technology, software, and technical ability to access and operate the software that drives the online platform. In any case, HIG believes the use of the Konveio online platform to present and receive comments from the general public of rural, agriculturally-based Hawaiʻi Island has been culturally inappropriate and inherently undemocratic and hopes that no county agency will use an online platform for similar purposes moving forward.
With regard to #2, members of the public must access and learn how to operate and navigate a completely separate second software on the Konveio platform, “ArcGIS”, in order to review and comment on Land Use maps in GP2045. Otherwise, it is impossible to see the Land Use map changes between the 2005 General Plan and 2045 draft General Plan. Even when a change is discovered (and it isn’t easy to do so), this software is cumbersome, difficult, and provides no explanation of the reasoning behind each change. The planning department must take action to find a means to present a listing of all land use map changes in order to make them easier to see and understand.
With regard to #3, starting from the top, the GP2045 does not contain a written table of contents. The table of contents is a drop-down menu separate from the online document. In addition, the GP2045 does not show how or why the following essential elements contained within the 2005 General Plan have been changed:
Goals
Policies
Standards
Courses of action
General Plan amendment procedures
Amendments to land use designations
Changes to Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide maps
Despite numerous requests, the planning department has thus far refused to provide a listing of changes to the above essential elements of the 2005 General Plan. Without this frame-of-reference information, without knowing and understanding what and why changes have been made, it is effectively impossible for members of the general public to make informed comments on the GP2045. Is it better? Is it worse? Without these changes being identified and explained the leeward and windward planning commissions and county council will be facing the same challenges as well.
Many members of the public and organizations, including HIG, continue to do their best to make comments and provide their knowledge, expertise, and experience for the betterment of the General Plan comprehensive review process, despite these challenges. And so, it is imperative the planning department be more considerate of those for whom they work and take immediate action to address these three issues.
Thirty Meter Telescope Update
by Deborah Ward, Hawaiʻi Island Group member
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is seeking the participation of stakeholders regarding Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. NSF investment is sought for the construction and operation of the Thirty Meter Telescope. NSF initiated Section 106 consultation for this potential undertaking with the Hawai‘i State Historic Preservation Division and concurrently published a Notice of Intent to Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement and Initiate Section 106 Consultation in the Federal Register (87 FR 43062). They acknowledge the importance of comments on the need for respectful practices, consideration of key principles from the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and adherence to best practices identified in the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation’s (ACHP’s) Consultation with Native Hawaiian Organizations in the Section 106 Review Process: A Handbook (ACHP, 2011).
If an individual or non-profit group is willing to make the time commitment to follow the Section 106 process, they may contact Carolyn Branco by phone at 703-292-4592 or by email at cblanco@nsf.gov. The Sierra Club Hawaiʻi Chapter ExCom has designated me (Deborah Ward) to represent the Sierra Club in this process, reflecting our fifty-years in the care and protection of the cultural, natural, and geologic treasures on the Mauna Kea region. I will be reporting monthly to the ExCom about the consultation process.
Upcoming Outings
Saturday, February 10, 2024
Kaʻū Desert Footprints Trail, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (E/F)
3.8 miles round trip, elevation = 3500’ +/- 500’
See evidence of a historic event from the volcano as we hike on the Footprints Trail out to the Maunaiki trail. Then we will return the way we came. Parking is at the pull out west of the National Park entrance or east of Naʻālehu between mile markers 38 and 39. The trailhead is well-marked. There is a trash can and an emergency telephone at the trailhead but no other services. There is very little shade so be prepared with water, hat, sunscreen, boots, and raingear. ROD protocol please. Reserve with leader Sunny LaPlante at 808-964-5017.
Maui Group
Rising floodwaters: ‘āina based solutions
by Lucienne de Naie, Maui Group ExCom member
The effect of climate change has been very visible along south Maui’s coast and the need for a “green infrastructure solution” has been a major focus of the Sierra Club Maui Group and many other community groups. Kula Kai (the traditional name for what is often referred to as “Kīhei”) has faced years of successive major flood events. Each storm, while bringing lifegiving water to the land, also sends mud choked waters into local homes, visitor resorts and businesses, undermines local roads and infrastructure and pollutes coastal waters and Kula Kai’s extensive reefs.
“The reality is that we are getting the intense rainfall of what planners call ‘100-year storm’ events a few times every year,” explains former south Maui County Council representative Kelly King. “We need to work with nature to protect south Maui’s natural wetlands and restore their capacity to help absorb and filter muddy storm waters.”
For many years local community groups have tried to convince lawmakers and agencies to deny building permits to projects proposed on lands that once functioned as wetlands. These efforts were often not successful, and many areas that functioned as wetlands for many years, were filled in and covered with housing—these areas now face the impacts of the more severe storm events of the last decade. Many additional south Maui parcels are currently zoned for residential use and have projects proposed.
Fortunately, under council member King’s leadership, Maui County did pass an updated wetlands protection and restoration ordinance in 2022 (“Bill 91”). It provided for a better definition of wetland characteristics; a mapping of wetland areas to establish a wetlands overlay district—where any proposed building activities faced increased scrutiny; and a review of potential wetland parcels to be protected as open space and restored.
A January 28th Sierra Club educational wetlands tour along the south Maui coast gave participants a front row seat into the recent devastating flood damage and a peek into the slow progress being made to implement Bill 91. The tour was led by Robin Knox, a water quality expert working with Save the Wetlands Hui, a local non-profit formed to protect and restore the area’s once prolific wetlands. The Maui Group has supported the hui’s efforts to pass stronger wetland protection ordinances, identify key wetlands for open-space purchases, and advocate for wetland parcels being protected in the South Maui Community Plan update.
The tour also provided a hopeful note for the future, showcasing efforts by local kānaka maoli restoration group ‘Āinakūkoʻa o Waiohuli Kai, led by Cody Nemet Tuivaiti. ‘Āinakūkoʻa utilizes traditional Hawaiian practices to restore native plant vegetation on a county-owned beach front parcel that was once part of a much larger complex that included the Waiohuli Kai fishpond, Waipuilani stream, and an associated muliwai (estuary.) Both Āinakūkoʻa o Waiohuli Kai and Save the Wetlands Hui offer regular volunteer opportunities. A Sierra Club National outings group recently spent two days at the Waiohuli Kai site removing invasive plants and rated it the top experience of their two week stay on Maui.
Upcoming Outings
Saturday February 10, 2024
Mākena Aupuni Trail (C/E)
South Maui (Honuaʻula Moku) , 3 miles
During the time of King Kamehameha III, a kingdom-era road (“Aupuni Road”) was constructed between Ulupalakua and the small sheltered Keawalaʻi Bay (present site of Keawalaʻi church in Mākena). Recent archaeological studies on Mākena Resort lands have rediscovered remains of this once popular 1830’s mauka-makai route. The “Aupuni Road” is being protected as part of an 100-acre preserve on Mākena Resort lands. Join this first Sierra Club access to the preserve and the ʻAupuni Road. Trail route is generally uphill. Terrain includes dirt roads and lava flow areas and some areas are bushy and overgrown.
Leader: Lucienne de Naie, huelogrl@icloud.com
Sign up
Sunday February 11, 2024
Kanaio Stupa Hike and Service (C/E)
Kanaio, 4 miles
Some steep grades. Hike up the south slope of Haleakalā to a beautiful shrine built in 1982 and view the south coast. We will also help pull invasive fireweed from Prayer Rock Meadow and then go up to Prayer Rock for lunch. Meet at 9am at the Ulupalakua Ranch Store (upper Kula). Bring lunch, water, and rain gear. Limit 18.
Leader: Rob Weltman, robw@worldspot.com
Sign up
Sunday February 18, 2024
Hiking and Yoga on the Kapalua Coastal Trail (E)
Kapalua, 3.5 miles
Join us for a hiking & yoga experience along the Kapalua Coastal Trail. This will be a 3.5 mile round trip hike along the shoreline with beautiful views of the ocean. Although we go through an old lava flow, this is a fairly easy walk with some uneven sections. As the sun is setting Meeyoung will lead a 30-minute all levels standing yoga practice…no yoga mat or props needed. We may practice on grass or rocks, so wear sturdy shoes (sneakers OK). Bring snacks, sunscreen, hat, and any gear you may require. There are restrooms at each end of the walk. We will meet at the D.T. Fleming Beach Parking lot at 4:30pm.
Leader: Meeyoung Lepore, hikewithaloha@gmail.com
Sign up
Saturday February 24, 2024
Hāmākua Mālama Service Outing (C/E/S)
Ha‘ikū, 2 miles
Help clear away abandoned rubbish from gulches in Ha‘ikū’s Hāmākua Coastal Preserve and re-plant native species. Tools, snacks, trash bags etc will be provided. Co-sponsored by Mālama Hāmākua.
Leader: Lucienne de Naie, huelogrl@icloud.com
Sign up
Sunday February 25, 2024
Makamakaʻole Stream (13 Crossings) (C/E)
North Shore, 2.4 miles
Beautiful hike with many stream crossings and waterfall-fed pools. Trekking poles are recommended due to loose rocks in the stream and potentially wet trails if there has been recent rainfall. Bring water, snacks/lunch, water shoes, swimsuit. Limit 10. Meet at Waiehu Golf Course parking lot at 8:00am to carpool.
Leader: Ann Schultz, acm_schultz@hotmail.com or 808-344-6628
Sign up
Friday March 1, 2024
Olowalu Shoreline Hike (C/E)
West Maui (Moku of Lāhainā) , 3 miles
Olowalu beach reserve was established over 100 years ago and provides public access along this historically significant shoreline. The hike will emphasize the area’s history and the unique marine environment found off shore. The hike covers a variety of terrains, from beach sand to dirt pathways. Participants can enjoy an optional swim at Olowalu landing on the return route.
Leader: Lucienne de Naie, huelogrl@icloud.com
Sign up
Sunday March 3, 2024
Pilale Bay Hike (C/E)
East Maui, 3 miles
Hike to Pilale Bay down a steep slope to explore Halehaku stream, Halehaku Heiau and remains of a Hawaiian settlement. Bring water and snacks. Limit 10. Meet at 8am at the Haʻikū Community center.
Leader: Rob Weltmann, robw@worldspot.com
Sign up
Oʻahu Group
Oʻahu Group seeks enforcement of animal feeding laws at Wāwāmalu Beach
by Reese Liggett, Oʻahu Group Outings Leader
Unfortunately, Wāwāmalu Beach has become the site of roaming pet and feral cats, released by irresponsible owners and subsequently subject to visitation and feeding by their owners and others.
In response, the Oʻahu Group sent a letter dated January 19, 2024 to the Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board requesting it “…consider a resolution or other action to enforce compliance with animal and animal feeding laws…” which forbid such activity at Wāwāmalu Beach (or for that matter, any other City and County of Honolulu public park or recreation facility).
Chapter 10 of the Revised Ordinances of Honolulu (ROH) addresses rules and regulations for Honolulu’s parks and recreation facilities and specifically states that:
“Within the limits of any public park it is unlawful for any person to: [item (9)] permit any animal to enter and remain within the confines of any public park area…[and (10)] Feed any animal or bird when signs are posted prohibiting such feeding.”
Further this sign is posted and makes Chapter 10 rules and regulations plain to the using public and expresses the financial penalty (per Chapter 10) for violators.
The reasons for such restrictions are many and well known. Food left by well-meaning people attracts pests like rats and mongoose, and cat feces can shed toxoplasmosis that can be fatal to marine mammals. The Oʻahu Group is very hopeful that the Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board will proceed with its request and that the board will pursue enforcement of the rules and regulations. It is notable that the Department of Parks and Recreation relies solely on the Hawaiʻi Police Department for enforcement of the ROH Chapter 10 rules and regulations.
The Oʻahu Group’s letter was favorably addressed at the Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood’s January 30th meeting. And its request for enforcement of posted park rules can be expected.
Wāwāmalu Beach, the natural, northeast section of Sandy Beach Park, is habitat for native plants and animals including endangered monk seals, sea birds, and turtles, is also a great place for the public to stroll about or just sit and gaze at the surf and surrounding beauty.
For decades it was driven on by off-roaders that were a danger certain to native plant and animal life. A Sierra Club activist spurred the Honolulu government to install the current boulder barrier. Nature, time, and Sierra Club conservation efforts are extracting invasive plants and encouraging native plants to return to this approximately five-acre area to its Native Hawaiian naturalness.
Pau hana with the Oʻahu Group
Thursday February 15, 5-7:30pm
Aloha Beer Company, 700 Queen Street (across from Lex Brodie’s)
Time for Sierra Clubbers to socialize, organize, and aggrandize our hopes and actions for a better environment starting right here in Hawaiʻi nei. Too long we’ve been on Zoom screens and social media—it’s time to be face-to-face, smile-to-smile, and ideas-to-ideas.
No host, no tickets or reservations—run your own tab; but do share the pupus! Or better yet, order a tasting flight and share some of your four short glasses. And there are plenty of bevs besides beer. Earlybirds—do snag some tables.
Validated parking up the ramp just ewa (left) of Aloha Beer.
Third Sunday draws a crowd of Maryknoll School sophomores
by Reese Liggett, Oʻahu Group ExCom member & outings leader
Oʻahu Group’s monthly conservation service project at the Wāwāmalu Beach section of Sandy Beach Park was the scene of an eager bunch of sophomores (and others) on the Sunday morning of January 21. They pulled or jacked-out a host of invasive koa haole stumps and other weeds, as well as cared for and planted more native plant seeds. Sierra Club outing leaders Suzan Harada and I dutifully signed their testimonial papers for Maryknoll School that requires environmental public service from its students—a terrific requirement.
Please join us for our next third Sunday event on February 18:
Come out for seed collection and sowing, litter pick up, as well as invasive plant removal. Personal pickaxes welcome. Bring closed-toe shoes/boots, gardening gloves, sunscreen and water bottle (refill available). Meet 9am at the northeast access area just northeast of the traffic light. Limited to 25 participants out of concern for the delicate planting environment. Participants under 18 require a parent or guardian. Please reserve your spot by emailing wliggett@twc.com. Note: There will be no third Sunday service day in March.
Upcoming Outings
Sunday, February 4, 8am
Mālama Tree Crew: Ala Mahamoe Tree Maintenance
1,000+ trees were planted in this area by volunteers led by Professor Mora, in partnership with The Outdoor Circle, Mālama Learning Center, Ko‘olau Mountain Watershed Partnership, and the Garden Club of Honolulu in 2018. Unfortunately it was a rough winter and many trees died. However, in the years since, we have planted almost a thousand trees to re-establish the native watershed—and most of them have survived! Help us keep them thriving! We will be watering, weeding, and clearing debris from around these recently planted trees. Meet at 8am at the gate between 1800 and 1812 Ala Mahamoe St. Tools provided. Bring long pants, long-sleeve shirt, water, hat, sunscreen, gloves. Reservations required at least 1 day prior to makikirandy@yahoo.com.
Sunday, February 11, 7:45-11am
Mālama Tree Crew: Pālehua Service Project
Native forest restoration.The work is in Akupu Enclosure, restoring ʻelepaio habitat. Tasks include planting, weeding, watering, fertilizing and berming. Please bring water, a snack, and gloves. There may be some mosquitoes so long pants and long-sleeve shirts are recommended. Meet at Makakilo Community Park at 7:45am. RSVP to leader Randy Ching at makikirandy@yahoo.com.
Sunday, February 18, 9am-12pm
Wāwāmalu Beach Service Project
Help return Wāwāmalu Beach to its native/natural status after years of off-road abuse and inattention. Seed collection and sowing, as well as removal of invasive plants on tap. Personal pickaxes welcome. Bring closed-toe shoes/boots, gardening gloves, sunscreen and water flask (iced refill available, no plastic water available). Meet 9am at the northeast access area just northeast of the traffic light. Limited to 25 participants out of concern for the delicate planting environment. Participants under 18 require a parent or guardian. Please reserve your spot by emailing wliggett@twc.com. Co-leader Suzan Harada.
Saturday, February 24, 7:30am-12pm
Ocean Count with Humpback Whale Sanctuary
Assist the Humpback Whale Sanctuary with its annual humpback whale and other marine animal counts at Spitting Cave, Portlock. Shore count at top of exposed coastal cliff. Short, beach access trail is steep, slippery in parts. Not appropriate for young children. If interested in volunteering, contact Sherine at boomla@hawaii.edu for an informational letter.