Aloha,
This is a good deal for the island. The hotel owners are covering much or all of the costs. Kahana benefits from the use of Kahana beach along with the tax base. If the hotels fall into the ocean, as has happened in Florida and other parts of the world, it will be a real black eye for Maui and Hawaii in general. It would be a mess that would end up in lawsuits and take years to remove the condos and clean it all up. This is Kahana's chance for a gorgeous beach.
Aloha,
Jan Shields
As a long time resident, I remember walking the beach at Kahana. Last summer was great when it was there again. The hotels are paying for it so that is fair. We get to use which I know I will. I think managing the beach is a good idea.
Waikiki renourishes the beach every 5-10 years with the support of the City of Honolulu and their partnership with Kyoya who owns a few of the hotels there. WHY is this any different? Why does the State allow that and not this??
Managed retreat might be good in some cases. But not in this case. The complexes are going to pay for it and have no where to retreat to. I clean many of the units and depend upon them for my business. If they go away my business goes away and our tax revenue goes away. Who is going to make up the difference? We the locals? Who is going to pay if they fall into the ocean? I support the effort.
I support this Kahana Bay project completely. The Kahana bay beach nourishment project will be an excellent project and have a great result for the entire community. It has many advantages. Having a beach along Kahana will be great for residents of the community and give the guests at the resort a place to hang out and stay put. Without the nourishment guests will continue to go to our local beaches, overcrowd them, cause parking problems, and worsen traffic. It is better to have a beach in front of the complexes so they stay put and thereby reduce the attendance and traffic at the parks and beaches that we frequent. The project will provide us better fishing opportunities, enhance the turtles habitats, and enlarge the beach at S Turns so that it isn't so crowded. Being paid for by the complexes is the best part of all. We get the benefits and not the cost.
I support Kahana Bay Project and believe that it is the best way to not only save the beach but also everything near the shoreline. Something needs to be done to stop the erosion. Are we ready to start planning a future for a Maui without beaches? Mahalo!
As an owner of a condominium at Valley Isle Resort for 25 years., I fully support the Kahana Bay Mitigation Project and will pay my share of the costs associated with the project. I believe project will provide significant economic benefit to West Maui and enjoyment to renters and the local community.
Oppose any TGroins, seawalls, buffering, offshore sand mining… anything that will disturb the natural balance and processes of our shorelines and off shore ecosystems!! These wealthy malahini always trying to take away from kanaka and the ‘aina, now they want our fishing grounds, reefs and beaches to be manipulated for their convenience and pleasure. No even consider giving back local access and parking?? This kupuna says time for stop!!!
I am in support of this project as it is being proposed to be paid for by the owners, not with taxpayer money.
The land on this planet has been changing shape for billions of years. Eventually, at some point in the distant future, the islands could potentially not even be here at all. So why not take advantage of our ability to protect the shorelines and islands and enjoy them for as long as possible?
I’ve seen managed retreat mentioned many times but have never seen a viable plan. Where will these buildings retreat to? Is there realistically somewhere to move them? Who’s responsible for the cost if the shoreline isn’t restored and these buildings eventually need to be demolished? Most likely, the taxpayers since the buildings themselves will be bankrupt.
Strongly support as a resident if this helps to increase parking and build a county beach park that residents and visitor can enjoy the beautiful Kahana Bay and elongated beaches.
I Support the Kahana Bay Erosion Mitigation project. I feel that it will give back beaches for the marine animals, allow honus and seals a place to rest, allow coral to come back (a lot of coral is currently buried by the sand that has shifted), the groins will give some fish and crabs new protection which could allow for more on shore fishing.
The owners in Kahana Bay are paying for this project and does not financially impact other residents financially. If however, we go the route of managed retreat- where does the millions of dollars come from, residents need to relocate, demolish the buildings, haul away the rubbish, and who is going to make up all of the lost tax and tourist revenue? Consider the impact to the environment.
Remember someone allowed the buildings to be built, now we need to maintain and manage a balance of marine animals and residents with the least impact. Sarah Schmerling
I am writing to express my wholehearted support for a significant initiative currently being considered in our beautiful Kahana Bay. The ongoing erosion project, with its primary objective of restoring the beaches, holds immense value for our local community and the thriving economy that relies on the allure of our pristine coastal environment.
Kahana Bay has long been cherished by both residents and visitors alike. Its picturesque beaches not only serve as a source of natural beauty but also play a vital role in sustaining our local economy. The tourism industry, which is a key driver of economic activity in our region, heavily depends on the appeal of our shoreline. With eroded beaches, the attraction for tourists diminishes, resulting in potential losses for local businesses, reduced job opportunities, and a decline in overall prosperity.
The erosion project serves as a beacon of hope, aiming to restore the natural balance of our bay's coastline. By implementing sustainable and scientifically backed measures, we can rejuvenate our beaches, ensuring they remain attractive and accessible to both locals and visitors. The restoration efforts will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of our shoreline but also contribute to the preservation of our valuable coastal ecosystems, supporting biodiversity and maintaining a healthy environment.
In addition to safeguarding our local economy, the Kahana Bay erosion project holds significant benefits for our community as a whole. Our residents rely on the accessibility and beauty of our beaches for recreational activities, leisure, and overall well-being. By preserving and reviving our coastal areas, we are providing future generations with opportunities to engage in healthy outdoor activities, enjoy the splendor of our natural surroundings, and forge connections with nature that are vital for personal growth and community cohesion.
It is crucial to recognize that the erosion project is not just a short-term solution; it is an investment in the long-term sustainability of our community. By proactively addressing the challenges posed by coastal erosion, we are demonstrating responsible stewardship of our natural resources and embracing a vision of resilience for the future. This initiative will serve as a testament to our commitment to preserving the unique character and economic prosperity of Kahana Bay.
In conclusion, the Kahana Bay erosion project stands as an essential endeavor that warrants our full support. By restoring our beaches, we are not only preserving our natural heritage but also ensuring the continued success of our local economy. Let us unite in endorsing this initiative, recognizing its significance in bolstering the well-being of our community, fostering environmental sustainability, and maintaining the allure that makes Kahana Bay such a remarkable place to live and visit.
This is a wonderful beach that both area residents and visitors can enjoy together. We have to take action to protect and preserve it,.
Currently there is public beach access and that will continue to be maintained.
Let's all enjoy the sandy beach together!!!
I support this project. The design will help restore and protect the beach for years to come. Those involved in the planning and design have worked hard to use best in class solutions being mindful of the environmental impact. This is a solution will ensure the economic vitality of this community which without intervention is in grave jeopardy. I ask you also support this effort. Many mahalos.
I am writing to express my wholehearted support for the Kahana Bay Restoration Project. As a small business owner born, raised, and living in Maui, I firmly believe that this project holds immense potential for the local economy. Importantly, the project's funding would be derived directly from the owners themselves, alleviating the burden on taxpayers. The restoration of the beach would benefit the entire community.
I strongly support this project. Tourism is an essential part of our economy and having beaches helps promote our tourist industry. Many locals are employed in the industry and the loss of jobs associated with a loss of the beach would be devastating to all island inhabitants. We can't afford to not move forward with this project.
Rebuttals to Arguments Against the Kahana Bay Beach-Restoration Project
by Marion Ceruti, Ph.D., Kahana Reef Maui resident
Objection 1. No Access. (This project will not) allowed locals to pass through their properties to fish, hunt, or access the beach. This is obviously the negligence of the landowners and condo management. Already the area is inaccessible and rugged and local residents do not have access to the coast areas in this large area of Kahana. There is no increased access for the public to the coastline in the proposed plans, which also shows the intent that this project is not for LOCALS or will have any local benefit. There is little to no public beach access there. If they are to make any improvements it must be required that they provide beach access.
Rebuttal. These objections are based on wrong assumptions and a lack of understanding regarding the proposed project. First, locals already fish from beaches and seawalls on private property at Kahana Bay. Second, there is nothing to hunt at Kahana Bay apart from sea creatures. Third, the Kahana Bay unit owners expect those who have been entrusted to manage the property to maintain the property values, which is why the unit owners overwhelmingly support and promote the proposed beach-restoration project. Not to restore and secure the shoreline would be the most negligent thing we could do. Actually, these arguments against the project are reasons to support it. Significantly, the restored beach would be public, not private as so many seem to think. The arguments offered against the proposed project are actualIy reasons to support it. If you want more public-beach access, support the beach-restoration project.
Objection 2. The proposed project will not work. The research shows these do not work well and with sea level continuing to rise are only a temporary fix.
Rebuttal. Answer. This objection is based on wrong assumptions and a lack of understanding regarding the proposed project. Projects similar to the area already working all over the world. Recently, groins-and-sand have been installed successfully at Iroquois Point, O’ahu. The project has been well researched and it has been determined to be the best solution. Models designed to predict sea-level rise are theories, not scientific observations. These theories depend on assumptions. No model using data going back only 150 years, which is short on a geological time scale, can guarantee the accuracy of predictions.
We must protect our homes. Extensive studies already have been performed. In the time it has taken to complete these very comprehensive studies, the erosion crisis continues at Kahana Bay. Time is not on our side. We must act decisively now, in the most timely manner to meet this urgent need. We urge government officials of the County of Maui to provide beach restoration so we can save our homes. Nothing can be gained by delays.
Objection 3. Durability. Don't allow temporary solutions.
Rebuttal. Regarding ”temporary” nature of the solution, the proposed beach restoration project will provide long-term relief as an alternative to the current extensive array of temporary sandbags, which have been installed to prevent a large-scale erosion disaster. The arguments offered against the proposed project are actualIy reasons to support it. If you don’t like “temporary,” support the beach restoration project.
Objection 4. Funding and Housing. The proposed solution will NOT benefit the actual people of Maui county, many of whom are struggling to find housing while these second and third vacation homes sit empty. Any and all funding should be put into making new developments mountain side with dual solar rails shuttling people to and from the shoreline that should be turned into green space and beach park.
Rebuttal. The residents of Maui County, some of whom live at Kahana Bay, will benefit because the project will provide a public beach for the people of Maui County. The cause of the housing shortage has been shown not to be the “vacation” homes. Affordable housing and vacation rentals constitute two very different markets. The Grassroots Institute of Hawai’i, under the direction of the Rev. Dr. Keli’i Akina, has demonstrated that cause of the housing shortage is a combination of zoning regulations and the permitting process.
Most of the units at Kahana Bay do not remain empty for long periods of time. They are occupied, one way or another, including some that provide homes for Maui residents. If we Kahana Bay residents lose our homes to erosion, it will exacerbate the housing shortage on Maui.
New mauka developments are already in progress on West Maui. It is not the kuleana of Kahana Bay owners, including its residents, to pay for every housing development with private funds. Affordable housing projects already have other funding. Completion of affordable housing projects does not depend on, nor does it require the cancellation of the proposed beach-restoration project. With the steady stream of tax money pouring into the coffers of the state and local governments, we can have both beach restoration and affordable housing. They are not mutually exclusive.
Objection 5. Environmental concerns: (The proposed project) will cause harm to reefs and (sea life) where they are put. Environmental damage of sand mining will be detrimental to the health and well being of our reefs as well as the benthic creatures. Off island residents are proposing full on destruction for their personal enjoyment.
Rebuttal. The Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), addresses these objections. Various aspects of environment impact, such as these, have been researched very extensively and very carefully. The results have been documented in the DEIS. Research shows that beach-restoration project will have no lasting negative effect on benthic and reef wildlife. For example, construction will be suspended during the coral-spawning season. Most coral reefs are outside of the construction area anyway. In fact, the groins will provide habitat for various mollusks and other creatures. An effort will be made to move stationary sea creatures to appropriate areas of the the sea floor makai of the groins. One cannot complain that this project will harm sea life and at the same time engage in fishing, which kills fish.
The sand will be reclaimed from the off-shore deposits and returned to the locations from which it was eroded originally. The shoreline will be restored to its location during the 1970s when many of the buildings were constructed. It is no accident that the sand deposits are located downstream of the new public beach that will be restored at Kahana Bay. In any case, large-scale sand and gravel mining in inland environments is very different from the relatively limited sand reclamation proposed for the KB beach restoration. Inland sand mining is not designed for public-beach restoration, but rather, industrial uses.
The environment will be enhanced in the long run. Maui residents who live in Kahana Bay units have an urgent need to protect their homes. “Personal enjoyment” of guests who visit other units comes with a substantial financial reward to the people of Maui County because the owners of rented units pay the highest property-tax rates. This substantial tax collection continues to fund the police department, the fire department, roads, agricultural management, parks, and other recreation facilities. All of these enumerated benefits contribute to the personal enjoyment of all Maui residents.
Objection 6. Surrounding areas, rip currents. They have provided no information regarding the effects of the groins north or south of these locations, or the effects on the reefs. There should be more research regarding this. This project would impact the natural flow of the ocean more than it is currently doing to the detriment of other shoreline areas. Also, generally next to groins or jetty's rip currents occur. These will create a serious safety hazard to individuals that lack ocean knowledge and strong swimming ability.
Rebuttal. Because Kahana Bay has natural rocky outcroppings on the north and south, the proposed beach-restoration project will not harm the immediate area of Kahana Bay, nor will it harm any other areas. The groins and sand will have a positive impact on Kahana Bay by preventing erosion. No area will be affected negatively, especially areas downstream to the south, which consist of a natural rocky coastline. Groins will not affect anything north of Ke’ea point at Kahana Bay, upstream of the prevailing current. South of Kahana Bay is the location where the Kahana Bay’s beach sand has been deposited after it was eroded by the prevailing south-bound current. We expect a short-term inconvenience due to construction, which always happens is when infrastructure is being built or repaired. In the long term, these groins are not expected to increase the currents in the beach area, which will remain as they are off shore in the vicinity of the outer reef and makai of the groins. The sand will be maintained within each cove created by adjacent groins because the currents will be diminished significantly within each cove. Groins will not increase the rip currents beyond what is already present. Groins and sand will preserve the beach for all to enjoy.
Objection 7 The project will ruin surf breaks.
Rebuttal. As a surfer of many years, I can tell you that the groins will enhance public access to the surf. The ends of the groins will not be anywhere near the breaks, which are much further out.
Aloha,
This is a good deal for the island. The hotel owners are covering much or all of the costs. Kahana benefits from the use of Kahana beach along with the tax base. If the hotels fall into the ocean, as has happened in Florida and other parts of the world, it will be a real black eye for Maui and Hawaii in general. It would be a mess that would end up in lawsuits and take years to remove the condos and clean it all up. This is Kahana's chance for a gorgeous beach.
Aloha,
Jan Shields
As a long time resident, I remember walking the beach at Kahana. Last summer was great when it was there again. The hotels are paying for it so that is fair. We get to use which I know I will. I think managing the beach is a good idea.
Waikiki renourishes the beach every 5-10 years with the support of the City of Honolulu and their partnership with Kyoya who owns a few of the hotels there. WHY is this any different? Why does the State allow that and not this??
Managed retreat might be good in some cases. But not in this case. The complexes are going to pay for it and have no where to retreat to. I clean many of the units and depend upon them for my business. If they go away my business goes away and our tax revenue goes away. Who is going to make up the difference? We the locals? Who is going to pay if they fall into the ocean? I support the effort.
I support this Kahana Bay project completely. The Kahana bay beach nourishment project will be an excellent project and have a great result for the entire community. It has many advantages. Having a beach along Kahana will be great for residents of the community and give the guests at the resort a place to hang out and stay put. Without the nourishment guests will continue to go to our local beaches, overcrowd them, cause parking problems, and worsen traffic. It is better to have a beach in front of the complexes so they stay put and thereby reduce the attendance and traffic at the parks and beaches that we frequent. The project will provide us better fishing opportunities, enhance the turtles habitats, and enlarge the beach at S Turns so that it isn't so crowded. Being paid for by the complexes is the best part of all. We get the benefits and not the cost.
I support thé project. Save the shoreline.
I support Kahana Bay Project and believe that it is the best way to not only save the beach but also everything near the shoreline. Something needs to be done to stop the erosion. Are we ready to start planning a future for a Maui without beaches? Mahalo!
As an owner of a condominium at Valley Isle Resort for 25 years., I fully support the Kahana Bay Mitigation Project and will pay my share of the costs associated with the project. I believe project will provide significant economic benefit to West Maui and enjoyment to renters and the local community.
Oppose any TGroins, seawalls, buffering, offshore sand mining… anything that will disturb the natural balance and processes of our shorelines and off shore ecosystems!! These wealthy malahini always trying to take away from kanaka and the ‘aina, now they want our fishing grounds, reefs and beaches to be manipulated for their convenience and pleasure. No even consider giving back local access and parking?? This kupuna says time for stop!!!
Time for retreat management
I am in support of this project as it is being proposed to be paid for by the owners, not with taxpayer money.
The land on this planet has been changing shape for billions of years. Eventually, at some point in the distant future, the islands could potentially not even be here at all. So why not take advantage of our ability to protect the shorelines and islands and enjoy them for as long as possible?
I’ve seen managed retreat mentioned many times but have never seen a viable plan. Where will these buildings retreat to? Is there realistically somewhere to move them? Who’s responsible for the cost if the shoreline isn’t restored and these buildings eventually need to be demolished? Most likely, the taxpayers since the buildings themselves will be bankrupt.
Strongly support as a resident if this helps to increase parking and build a county beach park that residents and visitor can enjoy the beautiful Kahana Bay and elongated beaches.
I Support the Kahana Bay Erosion Mitigation project. I feel that it will give back beaches for the marine animals, allow honus and seals a place to rest, allow coral to come back (a lot of coral is currently buried by the sand that has shifted), the groins will give some fish and crabs new protection which could allow for more on shore fishing.
The owners in Kahana Bay are paying for this project and does not financially impact other residents financially. If however, we go the route of managed retreat- where does the millions of dollars come from, residents need to relocate, demolish the buildings, haul away the rubbish, and who is going to make up all of the lost tax and tourist revenue? Consider the impact to the environment.
Remember someone allowed the buildings to be built, now we need to maintain and manage a balance of marine animals and residents with the least impact. Sarah Schmerling
Time for manage retreat
I am writing to express my wholehearted support for a significant initiative currently being considered in our beautiful Kahana Bay. The ongoing erosion project, with its primary objective of restoring the beaches, holds immense value for our local community and the thriving economy that relies on the allure of our pristine coastal environment.
Kahana Bay has long been cherished by both residents and visitors alike. Its picturesque beaches not only serve as a source of natural beauty but also play a vital role in sustaining our local economy. The tourism industry, which is a key driver of economic activity in our region, heavily depends on the appeal of our shoreline. With eroded beaches, the attraction for tourists diminishes, resulting in potential losses for local businesses, reduced job opportunities, and a decline in overall prosperity.
The erosion project serves as a beacon of hope, aiming to restore the natural balance of our bay's coastline. By implementing sustainable and scientifically backed measures, we can rejuvenate our beaches, ensuring they remain attractive and accessible to both locals and visitors. The restoration efforts will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of our shoreline but also contribute to the preservation of our valuable coastal ecosystems, supporting biodiversity and maintaining a healthy environment.
In addition to safeguarding our local economy, the Kahana Bay erosion project holds significant benefits for our community as a whole. Our residents rely on the accessibility and beauty of our beaches for recreational activities, leisure, and overall well-being. By preserving and reviving our coastal areas, we are providing future generations with opportunities to engage in healthy outdoor activities, enjoy the splendor of our natural surroundings, and forge connections with nature that are vital for personal growth and community cohesion.
It is crucial to recognize that the erosion project is not just a short-term solution; it is an investment in the long-term sustainability of our community. By proactively addressing the challenges posed by coastal erosion, we are demonstrating responsible stewardship of our natural resources and embracing a vision of resilience for the future. This initiative will serve as a testament to our commitment to preserving the unique character and economic prosperity of Kahana Bay.
In conclusion, the Kahana Bay erosion project stands as an essential endeavor that warrants our full support. By restoring our beaches, we are not only preserving our natural heritage but also ensuring the continued success of our local economy. Let us unite in endorsing this initiative, recognizing its significance in bolstering the well-being of our community, fostering environmental sustainability, and maintaining the allure that makes Kahana Bay such a remarkable place to live and visit.
Sincerely,
Spencer Schmerling
This is a wonderful beach that both area residents and visitors can enjoy together. We have to take action to protect and preserve it,.
Currently there is public beach access and that will continue to be maintained.
Let's all enjoy the sandy beach together!!!
I support this project. The design will help restore and protect the beach for years to come. Those involved in the planning and design have worked hard to use best in class solutions being mindful of the environmental impact. This is a solution will ensure the economic vitality of this community which without intervention is in grave jeopardy. I ask you also support this effort. Many mahalos.
I am writing to express my wholehearted support for the Kahana Bay Restoration Project. As a small business owner born, raised, and living in Maui, I firmly believe that this project holds immense potential for the local economy. Importantly, the project's funding would be derived directly from the owners themselves, alleviating the burden on taxpayers. The restoration of the beach would benefit the entire community.
I strongly support this project. Tourism is an essential part of our economy and having beaches helps promote our tourist industry. Many locals are employed in the industry and the loss of jobs associated with a loss of the beach would be devastating to all island inhabitants. We can't afford to not move forward with this project.
Rebuttals to Arguments Against the Kahana Bay Beach-Restoration Project
by Marion Ceruti, Ph.D., Kahana Reef Maui resident
Objection 1. No Access. (This project will not) allowed locals to pass through their properties to fish, hunt, or access the beach. This is obviously the negligence of the landowners and condo management. Already the area is inaccessible and rugged and local residents do not have access to the coast areas in this large area of Kahana. There is no increased access for the public to the coastline in the proposed plans, which also shows the intent that this project is not for LOCALS or will have any local benefit. There is little to no public beach access there. If they are to make any improvements it must be required that they provide beach access.
Rebuttal. These objections are based on wrong assumptions and a lack of understanding regarding the proposed project. First, locals already fish from beaches and seawalls on private property at Kahana Bay. Second, there is nothing to hunt at Kahana Bay apart from sea creatures. Third, the Kahana Bay unit owners expect those who have been entrusted to manage the property to maintain the property values, which is why the unit owners overwhelmingly support and promote the proposed beach-restoration project. Not to restore and secure the shoreline would be the most negligent thing we could do. Actually, these arguments against the project are reasons to support it. Significantly, the restored beach would be public, not private as so many seem to think. The arguments offered against the proposed project are actualIy reasons to support it. If you want more public-beach access, support the beach-restoration project.
Objection 2. The proposed project will not work. The research shows these do not work well and with sea level continuing to rise are only a temporary fix.
Rebuttal. Answer. This objection is based on wrong assumptions and a lack of understanding regarding the proposed project. Projects similar to the area already working all over the world. Recently, groins-and-sand have been installed successfully at Iroquois Point, O’ahu. The project has been well researched and it has been determined to be the best solution. Models designed to predict sea-level rise are theories, not scientific observations. These theories depend on assumptions. No model using data going back only 150 years, which is short on a geological time scale, can guarantee the accuracy of predictions.
We must protect our homes. Extensive studies already have been performed. In the time it has taken to complete these very comprehensive studies, the erosion crisis continues at Kahana Bay. Time is not on our side. We must act decisively now, in the most timely manner to meet this urgent need. We urge government officials of the County of Maui to provide beach restoration so we can save our homes. Nothing can be gained by delays.
Objection 3. Durability. Don't allow temporary solutions.
Rebuttal. Regarding ”temporary” nature of the solution, the proposed beach restoration project will provide long-term relief as an alternative to the current extensive array of temporary sandbags, which have been installed to prevent a large-scale erosion disaster. The arguments offered against the proposed project are actualIy reasons to support it. If you don’t like “temporary,” support the beach restoration project.
Objection 4. Funding and Housing. The proposed solution will NOT benefit the actual people of Maui county, many of whom are struggling to find housing while these second and third vacation homes sit empty. Any and all funding should be put into making new developments mountain side with dual solar rails shuttling people to and from the shoreline that should be turned into green space and beach park.
Rebuttal. The residents of Maui County, some of whom live at Kahana Bay, will benefit because the project will provide a public beach for the people of Maui County. The cause of the housing shortage has been shown not to be the “vacation” homes. Affordable housing and vacation rentals constitute two very different markets. The Grassroots Institute of Hawai’i, under the direction of the Rev. Dr. Keli’i Akina, has demonstrated that cause of the housing shortage is a combination of zoning regulations and the permitting process.
Most of the units at Kahana Bay do not remain empty for long periods of time. They are occupied, one way or another, including some that provide homes for Maui residents. If we Kahana Bay residents lose our homes to erosion, it will exacerbate the housing shortage on Maui.
New mauka developments are already in progress on West Maui. It is not the kuleana of Kahana Bay owners, including its residents, to pay for every housing development with private funds. Affordable housing projects already have other funding. Completion of affordable housing projects does not depend on, nor does it require the cancellation of the proposed beach-restoration project. With the steady stream of tax money pouring into the coffers of the state and local governments, we can have both beach restoration and affordable housing. They are not mutually exclusive.
Objection 5. Environmental concerns: (The proposed project) will cause harm to reefs and (sea life) where they are put. Environmental damage of sand mining will be detrimental to the health and well being of our reefs as well as the benthic creatures. Off island residents are proposing full on destruction for their personal enjoyment.
Rebuttal. The Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), addresses these objections. Various aspects of environment impact, such as these, have been researched very extensively and very carefully. The results have been documented in the DEIS. Research shows that beach-restoration project will have no lasting negative effect on benthic and reef wildlife. For example, construction will be suspended during the coral-spawning season. Most coral reefs are outside of the construction area anyway. In fact, the groins will provide habitat for various mollusks and other creatures. An effort will be made to move stationary sea creatures to appropriate areas of the the sea floor makai of the groins. One cannot complain that this project will harm sea life and at the same time engage in fishing, which kills fish.
The sand will be reclaimed from the off-shore deposits and returned to the locations from which it was eroded originally. The shoreline will be restored to its location during the 1970s when many of the buildings were constructed. It is no accident that the sand deposits are located downstream of the new public beach that will be restored at Kahana Bay. In any case, large-scale sand and gravel mining in inland environments is very different from the relatively limited sand reclamation proposed for the KB beach restoration. Inland sand mining is not designed for public-beach restoration, but rather, industrial uses.
The environment will be enhanced in the long run. Maui residents who live in Kahana Bay units have an urgent need to protect their homes. “Personal enjoyment” of guests who visit other units comes with a substantial financial reward to the people of Maui County because the owners of rented units pay the highest property-tax rates. This substantial tax collection continues to fund the police department, the fire department, roads, agricultural management, parks, and other recreation facilities. All of these enumerated benefits contribute to the personal enjoyment of all Maui residents.
Objection 6. Surrounding areas, rip currents. They have provided no information regarding the effects of the groins north or south of these locations, or the effects on the reefs. There should be more research regarding this. This project would impact the natural flow of the ocean more than it is currently doing to the detriment of other shoreline areas. Also, generally next to groins or jetty's rip currents occur. These will create a serious safety hazard to individuals that lack ocean knowledge and strong swimming ability.
Rebuttal. Because Kahana Bay has natural rocky outcroppings on the north and south, the proposed beach-restoration project will not harm the immediate area of Kahana Bay, nor will it harm any other areas. The groins and sand will have a positive impact on Kahana Bay by preventing erosion. No area will be affected negatively, especially areas downstream to the south, which consist of a natural rocky coastline. Groins will not affect anything north of Ke’ea point at Kahana Bay, upstream of the prevailing current. South of Kahana Bay is the location where the Kahana Bay’s beach sand has been deposited after it was eroded by the prevailing south-bound current. We expect a short-term inconvenience due to construction, which always happens is when infrastructure is being built or repaired. In the long term, these groins are not expected to increase the currents in the beach area, which will remain as they are off shore in the vicinity of the outer reef and makai of the groins. The sand will be maintained within each cove created by adjacent groins because the currents will be diminished significantly within each cove. Groins will not increase the rip currents beyond what is already present. Groins and sand will preserve the beach for all to enjoy.
Objection 7 The project will ruin surf breaks.
Rebuttal. As a surfer of many years, I can tell you that the groins will enhance public access to the surf. The ends of the groins will not be anywhere near the breaks, which are much further out.