Group News: Hawaiʻi Island Group, Maui, and Oʻahu
Hawaiʻi Island Group
Farm Dwelling Issue Spreads to Hawaiian Paradise Park in Puna District
By Chuck Flaherty, Hawaiʻi Island Group Chair
Can two homes be built on one-acre lots in the state land use Agriculture district (state Ag District)?
That is question now being raised by residents in the massive Hawaiian Paradise Park subdivision (HPP).
HPP received subdivision approval for over 8,800 lots prior to June 4, 1976. This date is important because that is when the state Supreme Court issued a ruling defining “farm dwellings”. The court’s ruling established legal precedent that only dwellings associated with a farm and/or farming activities are permitted in the state Ag District. Hawai’i County subsequently amended its zoning code to reflect the legal precedent set by the court’s ruling.
It is also important to understand that lots in the state Ag District are not allowed to be less than one acre and that most lots in HPP are larger than one acre. In addition, most HPP lots are zoned A-1a by Hawai’i County, that is, Agriculture zoning with lots of at least one acre.
However, because HPP was given subdivision approval prior to June 4, 1976, the county has been taking the position that any first dwelling built on HPP lots are “grandfathered” as single family residences for any residential use.
Last year, a group of HPP residents noticed that several lots had been cleared and two 2-story homes were being built on each lot. They subsequently learned that:
Building permits for second dwellings were being issued with a “First Farm Dwelling Notice” being given to the permit applicant without the county making any determination as to whether or not the lot contained a farm or had farming activities on it, and
Applicants for any additional dwellings on the lots were being required to sign “Additional Farm Dwelling Agreements”, but again without any oversight or enforcement by the county to determine whether or not the agreements were being followed.
The HPP group contacted the state Land Use Commission (LUC) and learned that the LUC has no enforcement authority, other than to issue declaratory rulings (DR). DRs allow the LUC to clarify how a statute, rule, or prior Commission order applies to a specific situation. However, a DR can only be initiated by a petition from an interested person(s) or by the Commission itself to resolve disputes or eliminate uncertainty. The county has ultimate administrative enforcement authority.
As a result, the HPP group held a public meeting to discuss the issue with HPP residents and has also been in discussions with the county Planning Director Jeff Darrow and their county council representative, Ashley Kierkiewicz, as well as state Representative Ilagan, Senator San Buenaventura, LUC staff and the Governor’s office to try to clarify and resolve the situation before it escalates into legal actions. Attempts to meet with Mayor Alameda have so far been unsuccessful.
Director Darrow did provide the group with the following statement, "The Planning Department's policy has always been to inform the owner/applicant of a "first farm dwelling" that there are requirements under State Law for a farm dwelling. We do not enforce farming requirements for a first farm dwelling. This is beyond the ability of the Planning Department to enforce every first farm dwelling on the island along with all of the other complaints we receive on a daily basis. We do enforce any "additional farm dwelling," which requires information to be approved, and which is recorded with the Bureau of Conveyances."
Meanwhile, the HPP group continues to organize and research with the ultimate goal of working with the county to reach a solution in which state and county laws are being followed and enforced to
Prevent further damage to the state Ag District,
Develop a regenerative, sustainable, and resilient locally-based agricultural economy, and
Create affordable housing for agriculture workers and their families.
Hike Leaders Needed!
Do you love exploring the outdoors and sharing its beauty with others? The Sierra Club Hawaiʻi Island Group is looking for passionate individuals to join us as volunteer outings leaders!
Our outings leaders guide hikes and service projects that connect community members to the stunning landscapes of Hawaiʻi Island while fostering a deeper appreciation for mālama ʻāina. Whether you’re experienced in leading groups or simply eager to learn, we’ll provide the training and support you need to succeed.
Why become an outings leader?
Inspire others to cherish and protect Hawaiʻi’s unique ecosystems.
Enjoy opportunities to explore new trails and sites.
Build community with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts.
Together, we can make a difference—on the trail and for the planet. If you’re ready to step up and lead, we’d love to hear from you!
Email our outings chair, Diane Ware, at volcanogetaway@yahoo.com to learn more.
Let’s explore and protect Hawaiʻi together!
Maui Group
Sierra Club Maui Annual Meeting Celebrates Community,ʻĀina, and the Future of Food
Sierra Club Maui’s Annual Meeting on November 1, 2025, brought together more than 100 community members, advocates, and partners for an inspiring afternoon at the Cameron Center in Wailuku.
This year’s theme, “Water, ʻĀina, & the Future of Food,” focused on the connections between Maui’s natural resources, local agriculture, and community resilience.
The gathering opened with an awards ceremony and slideshow celebrating individuals whose dedication to aloha ʻāina continues to shape Maui’s environmental movement:
ʻOnipaʻa Awardees: Buck Joiner & Napua Barrows (Waihe’e Limu Restoration)
Mālama i ka ʻĀina Awardees: Kyle Ellison (Mālama Kula) & Sara Tekula (Kula Community Watershed Alliance)
Mālama Kahakai Award: Ashford De Lima (Ho'oponopono O Makena)
Bob Babson Award: Rob Weltman (Re-Tree Hawaii)
Award recipients shared wisdom with the audience: Buck Joiner encouraged everyone to take the first step and act if you see a problem, reminding us that leadership can be simple. Napua Barrows emphasized how volunteer work helps people feel connected to nature. Sara Tekula shared that the Kula Community Watershed Alliance is beginning plantings for the new makahiki season. Kyle and Sara were adorned with first wattle lei’s by Kula community members, symbolizing progress in removing these highly invasive trees. Ashford spoke of his deep love and connection to Makena, and Rob was recognized for his extensive service through Re-Tree Hawaii, work in the legislative arena, and for helping make Sierra Club Maui’s hiking group one of the most active in the country — a true example of dedicated stewardship and aloha ʻāina.
After the awards, attendees enjoyed a community potluck lunch, featuring main dishes from Flatbread Pizza Company, Nalu’s South Shore Grill, beautiful flowers donated by Neola Caveny, and salad greens from Papa Leroy’s, alongside homemade sides, desserts, local fruit, and a lively seed and plant swap.
The afternoon concluded with a panel discussion, moderated by Aja Eyre, featuring Bobby Pahia, Kamalani Pahukoa, and Jeannine Rossa. Panelists shared insights on regenerative agriculture, water advocacy, and biosecurity, followed by interactive breakout discussions where community members exchanged ideas and inspiration.
Mahalo nui loa to everyone who joined, shared ideas, food, and plants, and Neola Caveny for the fresh flowers! You all helped make this year’s meeting a success. Events like this remind us of the collective strength of Maui’s environmental ʻohana — and the power of coming together to mālama ʻāina and create a sustainable future for all.
💚 Want to get involved? Check out the awardees’ organizations and join a project near you!
Upcoming Outings
Saturday November 8, 2025
Makawao Forest Trail Maintenance Day (S), Upcountry 4 miles
Join us from 10am-1pm for a rewarding day of trail maintenance in the beautiful Kahakapao Forest Reserve in Makawao! Gloves and tools will be provided with safety training. Bring sturdy, closed-toe boots, water bottle, and protective clothing. Trail maintenance plays a vital role in preserving our forest ecosystems. Join our Facebook Group "Kahakapao Krew" to get the latest updates!
Leader: Raina Myers raina.myers@sierraclub.org
Sunday November 9, 2025
Waihe‘e Ridge Trail hike (C/E), Waihe‘e, 5 miles
This is a moderate to strenuous hike, as it is uphill most of the way to the top, a 1600ft elevation gain. This trail can be very slippery if there has been recent rainfall, so a hiking stick is important. Meet at 8am at the upper parking lot: turn mauka (inland) at Circle M Ranch (mile marker 6.9 on Kahekili Highway) and drive .9 miles to the upper parking lot.
Leader: Annie Schultz, acm_schultz@hotmail.com.
Monday November 10, 2025
Makaīwa Bay hike (CE), East Maui, 2 miles
A ridge hike with a long, steep descent with ropes to the shoreline, then an optional short swim across a channel to see a natural arch. While only two miles round-trip, this is a strenuous hike through brush and with a 750 foot elevation change and rope descent/ascent. Beautiful shoreline and fascinating lava formation. Video: https://youtu.be/ZHfVxHdhtZ4.
Leader Adam van Alderwerelt, TidusWulf@gmail.com
Saturday November 15, 2025
Pauʻwela Point Lighthouse and Tide Pools (C/E), North Shore, 4 miles
Moderate, with some steep muddy sections. Dramatic coastal views and tidepools. Meet 8 am at Ha'ikū Community Center. Bring lunch, water and footwear good for slippery rocks. Possible opportunity to bathe in the pools. Bring a plastic garbage bag if you would like to help collect trash along the way. Limit 15.
Leader: Rob Weltman, robw@worldspot.com
Sunday November 23, 2025
Waiakoa Loop Trail (E), Polipoli, 4.5 miles
The trail begins at the hunter's check-in station on Waipoli Road near the top of the switchbacks. 4.5 miles is the total hike length. The trail travels north on the contour for 1 mile, switches back down 400' elevation, turns back south above the forest boundary and then switches back up 500' elevation to the starting point. Wear bright clothing. Be aware of hunters who off the trail. Trail was re-opened in 2024 after damage from rains. This is a beautiful trail.
Leader: Annie Schultz, acm_schultz@hotmail.com or (808) 344-6628
Saturday November 29, 2025
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. Take Hahana road from Hāna Highway and turn right at the signage for Mālama Hāmākua. See https://maps.app.goo.gl/PPSaE9QpyLeSWCLXA Co-sponsored by Mālama Hāmākua
Leader: Lucienne de Naie huelogrl@icloud.com
Mālama i ka ʻĀina Awardees Sara Tekula and Kyle Ellison with their wattle leis.
Oʻahu Group
Meet Our Executive Committee! Need One More.
By Oʻahu Group Nominations Committee
Sierra Club, Oʻahu Group Executive Committee consists of seven volunteer leaders, elected to serve two year terms, and help set the priorities and positions for our work on Oʻahu and Chapter. Take a look at the diverse group we have at this time! If you are interested in getting involved at this leadership level, feel free to reach out to contact@sierracluboahu.org.
Kiara Bacasen:
Kiara a lifelong advocate for the development of healthy, sustainable, and just relationships between humans and the natural systems we rely on. My approach to this work is shaped by my experiences as a community organizer, my formal education in sustainability science and design, and the wealth of wisdom regarding holistic sustainable systems being practiced right here in Hawai‘i and by indigenous communities across the world. While I retain interests in many interrelated fields, my current work as an on-call chef at Roots Cafe and on the sales and marketing team for the Hawai‘i ‘Ulu Cooperative allows me to focus on Hawaiʻi’s food systems, highlighting the importance of the relationships between people and with ‘āina while bringing in my own unique background to the solutions we put forth.
Honuʻāina Nichols
Honuʻāina (they/she/ʻoia) currently resides in Hālawa, ‘ohana is from ‘Aiea and Wailupe. A recent UCSB graduate in Political Science and community organizer with the UCDivestTMT Campaign. They are a kiaʻi wai and alpha ‘āina. Honuʻāina spends her days working as the Climate Champion and Education Coordinator at Mālama Loko Ea fishpond in Hāleʻiwa. Additionally, she is a part time paralegal intake at the Legal Aid Society of Hawaiʻi and taking her LSAT in January. They have recently connected deeper with Kanaloa with the assistance of Kuleana Coral Restoration’s Coral Occupational Application and Scientific Techniques program.
Angela Huntemer
Serving on Sea Shepherd ships around the world, hiking and freediving in Hawaiʻi for the past thirty years have galvanized Angela’s commitment to biodiversity. Degrees in psychology and education and twenty years of Elementary teaching have provided her with tools and connections to effect change. Through place-based education and as an environmental activist, she has worked proactively with community from school kids to NGOs, corporations and government to protect habitat at Turtle Bay, Waiale’e, Pupukea-Waimea MLCD, and other areas n the Ko’olauloa-North Shore. Angela brings North Shore to the table and loves the opportunity to study issues in depth.
Karen Shishido
Karen was raised in Leeward O‘ahu and spent several years on the continent for college, teaching in Japan, volunteering for an NGO, and pursuing a master’s in energy and environmental policy. She is currently a project manager for Hawai‘i Energy, a ratepayer efficiency program, where she manages clean energy workforce training, K-12 education, and advancement of Hawaii’s energy conservation code. She is a passionate advocate for social justice and the environment. Prior volunteer board service includes Sierra Club O‘ahu Group (Secretary and co-editor of Mālama), Kanu Hawai‘i, Common Cause Hawai‘i, Shifted Energy and currently the Hawai‘i Alliance for Progressive Action (HAPA).
Camile Cleveland
Camile is a Senior Manager at Hua Nani Partners, a Hawaiʻi-based consulting firm, where she works with public, private, and nonprofit clients to advance climate policies and clean energy solutions both in Hawaiʻi and across the US. Previously, she served as the volunteer Policy Coordinator and Executive Committee member for Surfrider Foundation’s Oʻahu Chapter. Camile holds a BSE in Mechanical Engineering and a certificate in Aerospace Engineering from Duke University. Camile is a proud Kaimukī resident and enjoys freediving, hiking, and crafting in her free time.
Jun Shin
Jun was born and raised on Oʻahu. He is a rank-and-filer in Hawaiʻi’s movements and struggles for peace, social justice, the dignity/power of the working class, and the planet. Jun is seeking to be a better organizer. He is the former Environmental Justice Action Committee Chair for the Young Progressives Demanding Action. He is a graduate of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.
Marti Townsend
Marti’s mission is to build a movement to reverse the climate crisis. She is currently the Regional Engagement Specialist at Earthjustice. Her previous posts include Executive Director for the Sierra Club of Hawaiʻi, The Outdoor Circle, and KAHEA: The Hawaiian Environmental Alliance. She has been instrumental in establishing Hawaiʻi’s Environmental Court, protecting Mauna Kea’s conservation district from overdevelopment, establishing the Papahānaumokuakea Marine National Monument (and Northwestern Hawaiian Islands State Refuge), combating environmental racism and much more. She is a graduate of University of Hawaiʻi’s William S. Richardson School of Law, Boston University, and Moanalua High School. She is married with three kids, two cats, and a dog. Marti loves her job, but can’t wait for the world to be saved so she can kick-off what she thinks could be her ultimate career move: stand-up comic.
Upcoming Outings
Sunday November 9, 2025
Mālama Tree Crew: Pālehua Service Project
Join us to clear debris, weed, and water around 75 newly planted native trees in the Akupu Enclosure in the Gill Ewa Lands (GEL). GEL encompasses 1,600 acres in the southern tip of the Waianae mountains dedicated to preserving the lands important biological, cultural, economic and historical resources. The Akupu Enclosure provides habitat for endangered elepaio to nest. Meet at 7:45am at Makakilo Community Park, near the top of Makakilo Drive. We will work from 8am-11pm. To help you prepare, we suggest wearing long sleeves, pants, and closed toe shoes. Although we provide tools, you might prefer to bring your favorite tool and gloves. Remember to pack water, a snack, and insect repellent. Reservations are required at least one day prior, so please RSVP to sherrycassetta@gmail.com with your full name and phone number.
Sunday November 16, 2025
Third Sunday: Wāwāmalu Beach Service Project
Help return Wāwāmalu Beach to its native/natural state after years of off-road abuse and inattention. Natives planting, seed collection and sowing, as well as removal of invasive plants on tap. Personal pickaxes welcome and encouraged. Work gloves provided. Interpretation of course. Bring flask, cool water available. Reservation required, please RSVP to Reese at wrliggett@yahoo.com. Limited to 24 participants due to fragile nature of plant regeneration.