Laksmi Melelani Abraham

The committee reviewed a proposed planting plan for Kalama Park by the Maui Outdoor Circle and supported the plan with conditions regarding tree placement and the addition of irrigation. Discussions also included revisions to the Maui County Planning Plan, specifically regarding the value of removed trees and the Special Management Area process. Furthermore, the committee addressed issues concerning unauthorized tree removal at the Hawaiian Homes site in Lahaina and potential replacement species. Other business included the signing of commendation letters for local properties and planning future agenda topics.

The board discussed several items, including public testimony regarding water meter requests and appeals for properties in Haiku. Members addressed the 60-day rule for water meter issuance and granted exceptions for specific applicants. The board also reviewed the Water Supply Rules Subcommittee report, discussed the appellant powers of the board, and received updates on the Pookela Well production capacity and infrastructure maintenance at the Olinda Plant. Additionally, the board approved a resolution for an outgoing member.

The board discussed the proposed South Maui Community Park Project, covering design elements such as the gymnasium, athletic fields, parking, amphitheater, and lighting plans. Key discussion topics included the project's historical planning context, the phasing of construction dependent on county funding, traffic mitigation measures, security and alcohol policy, fence and hedge aesthetics, and irrigation strategies using reclaimed water to support landscaping.

The board discussed the assignment of a hearings officer for an appeal regarding building permit requirements at a property in Kula. Additionally, a request for a variance from the Maui County Code regarding dwelling structure definitions, shelter requirements, and sanitation for a property in Makena was considered and approved with conditions, including an indemnity agreement and a restriction against transient vacation rentals or bed and breakfast operations. Finally, an unfinished business item concerning a two-story dwelling variance in Kahului was deferred to a future meeting due to the late submission of necessary plans.

The committee held a meeting to discuss litigation matters, specifically the settlement authorizations for claims related to an air incident on Lanai involving county employees, as well as tax appeal cases for Auwahi Wind Energy, LLC, and Kaheawa Wind Power, LLC. The discussion included public testimony regarding the fair treatment and compensation of employees involved in the accident, as well as explanations from legal counsel regarding workers' compensation laws, settlement procedures, and the status of tax appeals.