I support the repeal of the exclusion for grading and grubbing for trenching utilities because it's allowed certain companies to trench in culturally sensitive areas without triggering a review by SHPD. While utility installation is important to move forward quickly, in many cases, underground utilities should not violate the constitutionally protected rights of Hawaiians. In an incident last fall in Kaua'ula on the westside, this is exactly what happened. A developer was taking advantage of this existing exclusion to avoid triggering a review by SHPD (my theory). 5 wahine koa had to put themselves in the trench, because there were known burials in the area, which resulted in their arrests. However, remains were hit by the crew a short time later. This exclusion cannot stand when there is so much cultural importance that lies beneath the ground here in Maui.
I support the repeal of the exclusion for grading and grubbing for trenching utilities because it's allowed certain companies to trench in culturally sensitive areas without triggering a review by SHPD. While utility installation is important to move forward quickly, in many cases, underground utilities should not violate the constitutionally protected rights of Hawaiians. In an incident last fall in Kaua'ula on the westside, this is exactly what happened. A developer was taking advantage of this existing exclusion to avoid triggering a review by SHPD (my theory). 5 wahine koa had to put themselves in the trench, because there were known burials in the area, which resulted in their arrests. However, remains were hit by the crew a short time later. This exclusion cannot stand when there is so much cultural importance that lies beneath the ground here in Maui.