I strongly oppose contaminating Olowalu as a quick fix to house Lahaina’s toxic ash! I do not support it being a temporary spot either! There is no logic in moving the ash and contaminating another piece of land on our island!
The ash can be contained safely within the burn zone inside giant containers out of the weather until there is an optimal solution to this.
There is plenty of solutions and working with bioremdiation, bio char and nasa to come up with a smarter solution!
People live at Olowalu it is sacred land and burial grounds. There is a water table there and the reef is right down the hill! This will turn into a bigger problem, an environmental disaster if it happens!
We need to include the community and hire professional scientists to help us solve this. Not take the cheapest quickest bandaid.
We are not powerless victims!
We are powerful surviors!
Will we be casualties of hate, and fear?
NO QUICK FIX FOR TOXIC ASH!
THIS IS A BLUE ZONE 💙
THIS ISSUE. WILL CHANGE MAUI FOREVER!!
out
And this isn't about making people wrong. It's about truthful, honest, and factual of evaluation of
where we are if our iü belief systems.
If they cannot serve us in difficult times, and what good are they?
I am writing today to oppose the continued building at Olowalu. I believe there are better options than endangering the water table and reef system. Contractors building for USACE at Olowalu currently are not showing respect for the ‘aina and we should be concerned. We have litter everywhere, and their vehicles were found leaking water, fully saturating the ground they were parked on (enabling the toxins from the litter to leech into the ground).
I believe that we should be looking to future technologies for our landfill and disposal system. There are multiple zero waste facilities across the globe. These facilities break down waste and toxins, producing clean water, biochar, concrete, and clean energy. We are at a moment in which we will be in need of more biochar than we have at any given time before! Why simply find a place to bury this hazardous material when the technology exists to break down the toxins completely and produce byproducts that we can use for rebuilding Maui?!
We so desperately need to convert to a circular economy, and this would be an incredible step forward.
We are unable to ban plastics entirely on Maui, as we still receive shipments with loads of plastic daily. From the other islands, from the mainland, from abroad… The plastic is never going to stop. We need to find a way to actually break it down so that we are not continually adding plastics to the environment that our loved ones will inherit. This seems like the perfect time to take advantage of a private company wanting to fund a project like this on Maui. We constantly worry that we have no money in Maui county’s budget, and we already pay enough to not recycle in an environmentally or economically-friendly way.
I understand that we are on a tight timeline because we want these families to be able to rebuild and get back in their homes as soon as possible. I believe that we can find a place to store things inside of the burn zone. It doesn’t seem like there is a single person who is not worried about the environment and the timeline of rebuilding… To me, it makes the most sense to begin debris removal as planned and store the burritos in a large container inside of or adjacent to the burn zone while we build this facility.
I understand that this does not completely solve the problem of the debris being exposed to the elements, but I have simply not been provided enough information about the temporary site. From what I’ve seen, I do not trust the design at Olowalu. The felt liner is laid upon sharp cinder, and my understanding is that the temporary site does not have any bioremediation or extra protections that the final site would have. It also seems to be built on a slope and adjacent to a reservoir. I think it is in need of more protections than it has!
One thing that I have yet to understand is this:
It has been said that driving the debris across the island would put the environment at risk because some would still be liable to blow out of the truck when driving. So why are we okay with burying a large amount of material in one spot but not letting a small amount of debris fly away on the way to the landfill that is already being used in central maui?
I would love an answer to that question.
I humbly ask that you, councilmembers, go by the Olowalu building site. What I have seen of it makes me feel deeply uneasy. Please encourage them to mālama. Our lives depend on it.
As a Marine Biologist for 35 years and a Maui Resident for over 20 years, I have dedicated my entire life to protecting our precious water.
Both sides have valid points here. The Lahaina ash must be removed as soon as possible as the people having to live next to it are suffering and we must keep more Lahaina residents from selling and leaving—not to mention the fact that the next big rain could wash it all into the ocean!
BUT in all this haste and desperation to fast track the decision to place the toxins in Oluwalu, are we then creating a whole new problem?
At the Dec. 22nd meeting the TMK for the possible permanent site of 14 acres was revealed to be right next to the ‘temporary’ TMK site of 5 acres. It is quite possible, and perhaps probable, that the County or Mayor will choose to make it the permanent site. Once the ash is dumped onto this “temporary” site, the damage is done. This is a violation of the Ohana of Olowalu, its ancestors and all of our future descendants, our Keiki. The aquifer is a lattice of underground streams, and when toxins enter this lattice they will contaminate, not just down stream, but upward and crosswise for miles in every direction!
Let’s rise above this division and come to a solution we can all get behind! After the fires, we came together in such creative passion and devotion and were able to overcome so many obstacles and do workarounds at every roadblock to get to the people in need—with food, water, and supplies. We can do that again, here, with this issue! We need the same energy and dedication NOW!
Just because we have not found a solution we can all get behind yet, does not mean it does not exist… and yes, I know time is of the essence.
Separating out the small amount of cremated bones that have not yet been recovered, as best we can, and making a monument to commemorate our loved ones’ lives, is one beautiful solution. Once separated, could it be possible to carry the rest of the toxic ash in sealed containers (by Helicopter, perhaps, in order to not clog up the roadways?) to a place where there is BLUE rock foundation, not cinder, where we can then also place the liner we now have in Oluwalu? I understand that the land next to the Central Maui Landfill is on BLUE ROCK, is not a cultural site, sanctuary, or conservation district.
These are just my current ideas. Ultimately, I am asking for a time and place, very soon, where we can all come together as a community to share ideas and solutions.
Lastly- IT IS IMPERATIVE that we consider newer, proven technologies such as the use of mycelium in the soil and the idea of pyrolysis (and there are also other technologies from various countries and space missions used to make this kind of toxic material inert). And if we are able to use pyrolysis to break down the toxic material and entomb it into concrete—much like Pele does in her Lava—then once this ash is neutralized we could begin to do the same with our landfill trash(!)--which would be a huge win for our entire island and our planet. We could provide a blue print for the rest of the world, if we choose to do so, at this unprecedented time in our history.
Kecia Joy
Captain Planet Says Absolutely No! To Toxic Waste & Pollution! We're The Planeteers You Can Be One Too, Because Saving The Planet IS The Thing To Do! Pollution & CORRUPTION IS NOT THE WAY! Here's What Captain Planet Has To Say "The Power Is Yours" To Oppose to Toxic Waste, Pollution, & Stupidity!
Here's The Facts Jack from Living Earth Systems
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zpSCx0e4-PfYsJnc6uRcOjwCLtC5bXOrxCPe8yT2cUc/edit?usp=drivesdk
The County of Maui & Governor Josh Doodoo Green isn't telling the whole truth to the public and discussing several key issues, such as Poisions & Hawaiian Sacred Religious & Historical Cultural Sites & Ancient Burials
The County is telling the public that they will be recycling the concrete and other materials that can be recycled. Are they taking into account the migration of dioxins into porous concrete material?
Dioxin is known to migrate into concrete, so what is the process for dealing with this dioxin-laden recycled concrete? How will they text for this and manage concrete dust and where will it be taken to perform the recycling? Are they planning to use a crusher onsite which will release dioxin particulates into the environment? When crushing concrete, these dioxin particles move around in air and water and air filters will not detect them. Dioxins are destroyed only in excess of 1,200 degrees.
DESECRATION AND DESTRUCTION OF INDIGENOUS HAWAIIAN ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES
The Army Corps of Engineers is bulldozing and excavating sacred Hawaiian archeological and cultural sites, turning them into temporary and permanent toxic waste dumps as documented by drone footage and several photo diagrams below.
The archeological significance of the Olowalu area is detailed in a February 2012 survey of Hawaiian cultural sites for the Olowalu Town Project and Master Plan. The survey describes more than 40 significant Hawaiian structures and features such as heaius, the Olowalu Petroglyph Complex, burial complexes, habitation complexes and other petroglyph sites, terrace and mounds, skeletal remains (Iwi)
The Olowalu toxic waste site features some of the most prominent Hawaiian archeological features in the entire Olowalu valley. However, it is not included in the master plan survey since it was outside the proposed Olowalu Town Development Project and Master Plan.
Contaminating this site with some of the world’s most dangerous, cancer-causing toxins will prevent lineal descendants of the Olowalu Valley from visiting the site and will permanently restrict it from any further Hawaiian ceremonial cultural use.
At least four known significant archeological structures are threatened by the toxic waste dump site and damaging excavation practices underway. There are also likely several burial mounds located on the western-facing slope of the cinder temple that are being desecrated.
The proposed Olowalu toxic dump site holds significant historical and cultural significance to native Hawaiians who are unanimously opposed to its use as a toxic waste dump. (Olowalu Massacre) Many are calling this a second Olowalu Massacre—a massacre of the ʻāina and erasure of Hawaiian history. (Council Minutes (12/22/23)
Hinano Rodrigues described Olowalu cinder pits sited for the toxic waste dump as considered by indigenous Hawaiian kupuna as the “ovaries of Pele” and has expressed his opposition and his whole community’s opposition.
Numerous lineal descendants of the region testified during the December 22, 2023, Maui County Council special session (minutes yet to be published), describing the deep offense and outrage at having not been consulted by the same decision-makers claiming to care about cultural sensitivity during the debris removal process. (Lahaina Community Meeting (12/18/2023), (Council Minutes (12/22/23)
A survey published by Lahaina Strong documented 98% opposition to the Olowalu toxic waste site by local Hawaiian residents of Lahaina, many of whom are lineal descendants. (Lahaina Community Meeting (12/18/2023)
Hawaiian families who both live in, farm and run businesses in Olowalu have voiced extreme opposition. (Council Minutes (12/22/23)
FEDERAL LAWS VIOLATED / STATE LAWS SUSPENDED UNDER “EMERGENCY PROCLAMATION”
The County is in violation of at least 10 Federal Laws suspended under its Emergency Proclamation including: the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, Endangered Species Act. Toxic Substances Control Act, and too many others to list.
The County is also in violation of at least 10 municipal laws, notably its climate change and resilience commitments described in Ordinance 5264 which minimizes runoff of pollutants into nearshore waters and air, aquatic, and marine environments.
The County violates at least 10 of its own municipal codes designed to protect the public and our Hawaiian culture—a culture now as endangered as the whales. It is the job of the County to protect, not cause further injury to the public and our endangered Hawaiian culture.
OPPOSITION TO OLOWALU TOXIC DUMP SITE
Sylvia Earle, Mission Blue World-Renowned Marine Biologist, first female chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (former), National Geographic Explorer at Large, Time Magazine’s first Hero for the Planet
Liz Taylor, President of Deep Ocean Exploration and Research (DOER)
Office of Hawaiian Affairs
Hinano Rodrigues, lineal descendant of the Olowalu Valley who represents the kupuna of the region. (Watch Kawai Rodrigues Testimonial Video at https://shorturl.at/INX02)
Hawaii State Department of Health Officer and Maui’s top public health official, Dr. Lorrin Pang (watch interview)
Sierra Club (Civil Beat: Experts Raise Concerns Over Planned Use Of Olowalu Landfill To Store Fire Debris)
Larry Holm, Lead Engineer, Toxic Waste Site Development, Parson’s Engineering
Maui Nature Conservancy. Civil Beat: Maui Starts Building Temporary Landfill For Wildfire Ash And Debris Despite Public Concerns
Petitions released have collected more than 10,000 signatures in opposition to the dump site
Several expert testimonies were provided during the Maui County Council Special Session on December 22, 2023 by scientific and health experts in opposition (Council Minutes (12/22/23)
As of December 23, 2023, there have not been any community testimonies in support of this proposed temporary toxic waste site.
ALTERNATIVE CONCEPTS THAT ARE VIABLE FOR TOXIC WASTE DISPOSAL
According to Maui County officials, the Olowalu toxic waste site was selected for logistical convenience, speed of returning Lahaina residents to their properties, cost reduction, and economic stimulation. (Lahaina Community Meeting (12/18/2023),
A large portion of the community that is in opposition, especially those living in Olowalu valley and who treasure its marine sanctuary, believe it’s paramount to keep toxic waste from contaminating the ocean and other precision natural resources.
To achieve these goals, the community has researched and presented only a few concepts for consideration. There are likely many others to be explored. It is recommended the County of Maui consult with several of the experts cited below and explore additional ideas.
ALTERNATIVE TEMPORARY SITE CONCEPTS
The County of Maui could work with the local community and business owners to procure or lease an alternative temporary site for storage of toxic debris within the Lahaina burn zone (approximately 10 acres based on the current temporary site of 6.7 acres).
The Lahaina burn zone is already contaminated and therefore possesses fewer environmental cross-contamination risks and threats to the public health of Maui residents and visitors during removal and transportation. Those who are in Lahaina are in hazmat protection and protected by air monitors.The transportation to a Lahaina burn zone site is also vastly more cost effective.
Central Lahaina is a more desirable site when compared with Olowalu’s unstable cinder and loose sediment substrate and with its unpredictable, terrain-induced accelerated winds and flash flooding.
Central Lahaina features low wind and rainfall and will be much less prone to cross-contamination of pristine environments, threats to public health, and contamination of historical cultural sites, as well as Maui’s most precious reef ecosystem.
Once transported, it is recommended waste be moved into safe containment units and readied for relocation to a permanent destination. This will be a much easier and economically viable solution than to dig toxic debris out of the temporary Olowalu site using measures like “burrito wrapping” or other more protective high-tech container systems which have been identified.
The toxic debris “readying” process would likely entail a combination of technologies already vetted and proven to work and in use today. Below are some descriptions of these options with links to scientific experts and universities for more information.
PERMANENT SITE AND WASTE PROCESSING CONCEPTS
CONCEPT 1: USE FEMA DOLLARS TO EITHER REMOVE A PORTION OF THE TOXIC WASTE, OR USE THE CENTRAL MAUI LANDFILL OR OTHER SITE TO SAFELY STORE IT AND NEUTRALIZE IT BY EMPLOYING BIOREMEDIATION TECHNOLOGIES
FEMA has agreed to transport and pay for toxic debris removal, currently estimated to perhaps cost billions of dollars and take approximately 3 years.
To reduce the time to remove debris, and cost, we can prioritize the most toxic wastes for removal off island. The remaining waste can be transported to the Central Maui landfill.
Along with this approach, we can explore the potential of bioremediation to neutralize heavy toxins shown in multiple use cases to be fast and effective biological methods for detoxifying contaminated sites including the Gulf oil spill tragedy. (National Institute of Health). These can be effective for wildfire toxin neutralization as well.
If you want to know more, talk to Mr. EDDY GARCIA
www.recenters.org
Aloha
President Sheby "Keiki'okalani" Billionaire
#Pikachu
December 28, 2023
Subject: Strong Opposition to Toxic Ash Disposal in Olowalu Mayor Bissen and The Maui County Council
I am writing to you as an engaged voter and concerned member of the Maui County Community, expressing my vehement opposition to the proposed toxic waste disposal site in Olowalu.
The prospect of temporarily storing these hazardous substances in our community poses an imminent threat of causing irreparable harm to our invaluable soil, water, air, ocean, and, most importantly, our people.
Olowalu, recognized as a Pu`uhonua, a Place of Refuge, holds deep cultural and environmental significance. Placing a toxic waste disposal site in this sacred location endangers both human and environmental health, compromising the very essence of what Olowalu represents.
Detailed toxicology reports have revealed that the ash debris slated for disposal contains alarming levels of Arsenic, Lead, Antimony, Cobalt, and Copper. These toxic elements have the potential to inflict severe and lasting damage to our local ecosystems and endanger the well-being of our community members.
I urge you to reconsider the decision to establish a toxic waste disposal site in Olowalu. Instead, I propose redirecting the toxic ash to designated landfills on the Mainland United States, where facilities are specifically equipped to handle and mitigate the risks associated with such hazardous waste.
Furthermore, I strongly advocate for the creation of a separate memorial dedicated to the victims of the Lahaina Fire. It is inappropriate and disrespectful to intermingle a memorial with toxic waste, and the memory of those affected by the tragedy deserves a place of remembrance distinct from potential environmental hazards.
In conclusion, I stand resolutely against the establishment of a toxic waste site in Olowalu. The inherent risks to our community, `Aina, and Kai are too significant to ignore. I implore you to prioritize the well-being of our environment and the safety of our residents.
Also... At the meeting at Lahaina Civic Center on Dec. 18, brief remarks were given by a person referred to only as Brittany. I have been able to ascertain this is Brittany Zimmerman of Yummet. It is also my understanding her company is already active on the Big Island, converting toxic and solid waste into a benign concrete material. I wonder why this approach has not gained more traction for Maui.
Yes, the toxic ash needs to be removed from Lahaina as soon as possible. However, this option seems rushed and easily botched. This site is supposedly temporary and all EPA standards will be upheld, but having closely watched the litigation against Maui County’s violation of the Clean Water Act with respect to the Lahaina waste treatment injection wells, I cannot say that my trust lies in Maui County’s ability to refrain from cutting corners. As someone who lost my home, I am willing to wait to rebuild to make sure that the clean up process is done properly. I have seen some amazing alternative ideas put forward that seem to go unconsidered. The future of Lahaina AND Olowalu can be beautiful if we get this right the first time. As I learned from someone today, the Hawaiian word for this is Kina’ole. Let’s do this right for the right reasons the first time.
I Strongly Oppose Using Olowalu as your Toxic Guinea Pig & Here is a Youtube Video I made to explain in it to you in a simple easy to understand format; Click the button & Link Below and Awaken Your Mind to How The Community Truly Feels!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyS_7WGwrUs
Google Data Fact Sheet: Olowalu, Maui
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zpSCx0e4-PfYsJnc6uRcOjwCLtC5bXOrxCPe8yT2cUc/edit?fbclid=IwAR0d7VbRkCpxV7ms863Il6hUJJ9UFp9gdA4zBRh16Np1M08HsYD8UrRf-ho
I am writing in opposition to your Temporary Toxic Dump Site in Olowalu. I reside less than 2 miles away from the location and am very concerned for the health of myself and my family, as well as the fronting beaches that we spend all of our spare time at.
Your decisions to make this a temporary dump site are rash and reckless. The results of this decision will only cost you so much more in the long run as it will have a catastrophic negative impact on our environment, the reefs and sea life, and our very lives and livelihoods.
With just some basic research, anyone can conclude that it's not a matter of if the toxins will reach people in our community and the reef, but when. It's just absurd to me that you would consider rolling the dice with people's lives and the environment. You apparently do not live anywhere near Olowalu, nor do you spend your weekends like hundreds of others at Launiupoko Beach Park.
I implore you to take the time to reconsider and dispose of the toxins in a proper manner that will not cost more lives and cause more damage to our environment.
Should you choose to move forward with your reckless decision, I will, without a doubt be selling my home and moving elsewhere. I will be the first of many whom will not think twice to sell their home to someone from the mainland because you give us no alternative. My family's health is my number one priority. I am born and raised in Hawaii and worked tirelessly to buy my home in Lahaina where I have resided for the last 25 \years.It will be a shame to see it destroyed by reckless decisions hiding under the emergency proclamation.
Greetings Committee Chair, Council Member, Tamara Paltin. On behalf of the Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina, we submit our opposition to the AUGUST 2023 MAUI WILDFIRES TEMPORARY DEBRIS DISPOSAL SITE AND FINAL DEBRIS DISPOSAL SITE (DRIP-2(13) at Awalua, Olowalu based on the County of Maui’s failure to exercise a fundamental cultural protocol and cornerstone of our native Hawaiian ‘Home Culture’ which is ask permission before entering/taking.
As reported at the Board of Land and Natural Resources Meeting on October 27, 2023, and a Civil Beat Article on October 27, 2023, by Paula Dobbyn a letter sent to Gov. Josh Green from Maui’s Mayor, Richard Bissen on September 20, 2023, clearly states The County of Maui had already decided to use land at Awalua, Olowalu as a debris disposal site and memorial for the August 2023 Maui Wildfires without consulting Ancestral Family Kupuna (Elders) and Makua (Adults) still residing in Olowalu.
See the following attached documents:
1. BLNR Meeting_27Oct23 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/D-9-1.pdf
2. Civil Beat Article on Awalua_10.27.23 State Land Board OKs Olowalu For Ash And Debris Disposal From Maui Fires - Honolulu Civil Beat
3. Email_12.28.2023_Shayne Agawa, County of Maui (pdf file)
4. Email_12.29.2023_Klein-Moore, FEMA (pdf file)
5. Email_12.29.2023_Ferreira, OHA (pdf file)
6. ARCHAEOLOGICAL TREATMENT PLAN (ATP) by FEMA Environmental and Historic Preservation (pdf file)
7. Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 13-Chapter 300 Rules of Practice and Procedures Relating to Burial Sites ad Human Remain https://files.hawaii.gov/dlnr/shpd/rules/300.pdf
Summary of Attached Documents:
Email_12.28.2023_Shayne Agawa, County of Maui
Lack of Transparency and Inappropriate Hawaiian Cultural Advisors/Consultants for Lahaina.
In the Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina, the Rodrigues-Kaahui Ohana of Olowalu/Ukumehame, the Vernon Kalanikau Ohana of Kula Uka/Kula Kai all have the experiences and memories of “youthful years” growing up in Lahaina; however not included in the consultation and decision-making process for this AUGUST 2023 MAUI WILDFIRES TEMPORARY DEBRIS DISPOSAL SITE AND FINAL DEBRIS DISPOSAL SITE (DRIP-2(13).
Note: On page 9 of the ATP, a List of names of the NHO’s and Consulting Parties to which 90% I am familiar with did not grow up, experience, have ‘youthful years’ of Lahaina as the Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina, the Rodrigues-Kaahui Ohana of Olowalu/Ukumehame, the Vernon Kalanikau Ohana of Kula Uka/Kula Kai all have
It would behoove us all in the recovery and rebuilding of Lahaina, to include in the consultation process the appropriate and experienced resources mentioned here.
Email_12.29.2023_Klein-Moore, FEMA
As this email thread shows, the section 106 notification to the NHOs and recognized Parties for this undertaking was sent first without including the Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina…
• November 4, 2023, Notification from David J. Herdich Sent to NHOs except Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina.
• November 18, 2023, Kimokeo Ohana first learns of this undertaking and failure to be notified.
• November 28, 2023, Kimokeo Ohana receives email from FEMA’s Nicholas Moore, informing us that they learned Kimokeo Ohana was not included in the November 4, 2023, notification letter and included a copy of the notification letter.
Email_12.29.2023_Ferreira, OHA
Kamakana C. Ferreira, M.A., Lead Compliance Specialist of Office of Hawaiian Affairs response to my December 29, 2023, email explained OHA did not respond to FEMA’s notification until after the 5-day deadline.
In their email response, OHA did request consultation records and asked that the SHPD History & Culture Branch be included as part of consultation as to assist with identifying descendants and families to consult within the area.
In response to Mr. Ferreira’s response 2 photos from a drone over the Awalua disposal site shows what appears to be ancient native Hawaiian Archaeological structures which may likely not be registered and/or mentioned in this undertaking.
Further investigation of this site is warranted.
At the time of this writing, I had not received any replies.
The Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina opposes the August 2023 Debris Disposal Site at Awalua, Olowalu on the following basis:
• County of Maui’s Lack of Transparency and Cultural Protocols/sensitivity.
• FEMA’s Failure to ensure proper notification of Section 106 Notification.
• Adverse Impact to an unregistered Ancient Hawaiian Cultural Site
Remedy:
1. Cessation of all construction work for the Debris Disposal Site at Awalua, Olowalu
2. Reopen the section 106 process to be in compliance.
3. Select and expedite a Temporary Debris Disposal Site within the Burn Zone where the toxic ash with possible human remains can be barrito-wrapped, sealed, and remain originally within the Ahupua’a which is consistent with native Hawaiian culture and Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 13-Chapter 300 RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE RELATING TO BURIAL SITES AND HUMAN REMAIN
Mahalo
Foster Ampong, Kimokeo Ohana (Family) and Community
Family Genealogy & History
Phone (808) 281-3894
Email: kekahunakeaweiwi@yahoo.com
cc: Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina
Rodrigues-Kaahui Ohana of Olowalu/Ukumehame, Attn: Hinano Rodrigues
Kalanikau Ohana of Kula Uka/Kula Kai, Attn: Vernon Kananilaie Kalanikaukaalaneokeopulani
Note: Attachments for this written testimony exceed maximum allowed characters however are available upon written request.
The temporary disposal site at Olowalu is destined to be an environmental catastrophe — one that could threaten the health of many generations to come. It is also a desecration of sacred Hawaiian land. Please stop this work immediately and look at safer alternatives to handling the toxic debris. I implore you to take the time needed to decide on a better long-term plan and not compound the Lahaina tragedy by devastating our aina with carcinogens in our soil, ocean, aquifers, and air. Our future depends on you’re doing the right thing. Mahalo.
I'm a current resident of Maui, and lived in Lahaina for 10 years. At the meeting at Lahaina Civic Center on Dec. 18, brief remarks were given by a person referred to only as Brittany. I have been able to ascertain this is Brittany Zimmerman of Yummet. It is also my understanding her company is already active on the Big Island, converting toxic and solid waste into a benign concrete material. I wonder why this approach has not gained more traction for Maui. Looking through the written testimony submitted here as of 12.29.23, I find no mention of Brittany Zimmerman or Yummet (there were a couple of references to pyrolysis, gasification, and/or polymerization given by other testifiers). Neither is there specific mention in eComments as of about 3:330 pm 1.1.24, beyond one or maybe two. Also, while a response was solicited from FEMA on the possibility of removing debris off island, I find no communication with Zimmerman or Yummet to clarify the feasibility of their services or methods for disposing of debris from Lahaina. Therefore, I oppose the creation of a temporary or permanent waste dump at Olowalu until all these alternatives have been fully considered. It seems to me that conversion of the debris into inert material is of more value environmentally than the conventional process offered by FEMA for the burial of Lahaina.
I am opposed to the use of Olowalu as a temporary debris removal site. The wildfire ash is toxic, and lawful procedures for disposing of such toxic waste are not being followed because the Mayor's emergency proclamation suspended them. The County must prioritize protecting the reef and the whole marine ecosystem and must treat the Hawaiian cultural sites with greater respect. From the Dec 18 community meeting, it is clear that the County personnel are not familiar with bioremediation and processes for rendering the toxic material harmless. Until the County considers these methods, it is not ready to take any action on toxic ash removal. I call on the County to STOP this plan. Olowalu is not a safe site, and the County's current plans fall far short of safe disposal.
I strongly oppose the dumping of the toxic debris at Olowalu. Better solutions have been presented!!! Save the land, the people, the ocean and environment!!
I strongly oppose contaminating Olowalu as a quick fix to house Lahaina’s toxic ash! I do not support it being a temporary spot either! There is no logic in moving the ash and contaminating another piece of land on our island!
The ash can be contained safely within the burn zone inside giant containers out of the weather until there is an optimal solution to this.
There is plenty of solutions and working with bioremdiation, bio char and nasa to come up with a smarter solution!
People live at Olowalu it is sacred land and burial grounds. There is a water table there and the reef is right down the hill! This will turn into a bigger problem, an environmental disaster if it happens!
We need to include the community and hire professional scientists to help us solve this. Not take the cheapest quickest bandaid.
We are not powerless victims!
We are powerful surviors!
Will we be casualties of hate, and fear?
NO QUICK FIX FOR TOXIC ASH!
THIS IS A BLUE ZONE 💙
THIS ISSUE. WILL CHANGE MAUI FOREVER!!
out
And this isn't about making people wrong. It's about truthful, honest, and factual of evaluation of
where we are if our iü belief systems.
If they cannot serve us in difficult times, and what good are they?
Yvonne former resident
I emphatically oppose this measure.
I am writing today to oppose the continued building at Olowalu. I believe there are better options than endangering the water table and reef system. Contractors building for USACE at Olowalu currently are not showing respect for the ‘aina and we should be concerned. We have litter everywhere, and their vehicles were found leaking water, fully saturating the ground they were parked on (enabling the toxins from the litter to leech into the ground).
I believe that we should be looking to future technologies for our landfill and disposal system. There are multiple zero waste facilities across the globe. These facilities break down waste and toxins, producing clean water, biochar, concrete, and clean energy. We are at a moment in which we will be in need of more biochar than we have at any given time before! Why simply find a place to bury this hazardous material when the technology exists to break down the toxins completely and produce byproducts that we can use for rebuilding Maui?!
We so desperately need to convert to a circular economy, and this would be an incredible step forward.
We are unable to ban plastics entirely on Maui, as we still receive shipments with loads of plastic daily. From the other islands, from the mainland, from abroad… The plastic is never going to stop. We need to find a way to actually break it down so that we are not continually adding plastics to the environment that our loved ones will inherit. This seems like the perfect time to take advantage of a private company wanting to fund a project like this on Maui. We constantly worry that we have no money in Maui county’s budget, and we already pay enough to not recycle in an environmentally or economically-friendly way.
I understand that we are on a tight timeline because we want these families to be able to rebuild and get back in their homes as soon as possible. I believe that we can find a place to store things inside of the burn zone. It doesn’t seem like there is a single person who is not worried about the environment and the timeline of rebuilding… To me, it makes the most sense to begin debris removal as planned and store the burritos in a large container inside of or adjacent to the burn zone while we build this facility.
I understand that this does not completely solve the problem of the debris being exposed to the elements, but I have simply not been provided enough information about the temporary site. From what I’ve seen, I do not trust the design at Olowalu. The felt liner is laid upon sharp cinder, and my understanding is that the temporary site does not have any bioremediation or extra protections that the final site would have. It also seems to be built on a slope and adjacent to a reservoir. I think it is in need of more protections than it has!
One thing that I have yet to understand is this:
It has been said that driving the debris across the island would put the environment at risk because some would still be liable to blow out of the truck when driving. So why are we okay with burying a large amount of material in one spot but not letting a small amount of debris fly away on the way to the landfill that is already being used in central maui?
I would love an answer to that question.
I humbly ask that you, councilmembers, go by the Olowalu building site. What I have seen of it makes me feel deeply uneasy. Please encourage them to mālama. Our lives depend on it.
As a Marine Biologist for 35 years and a Maui Resident for over 20 years, I have dedicated my entire life to protecting our precious water.
Both sides have valid points here. The Lahaina ash must be removed as soon as possible as the people having to live next to it are suffering and we must keep more Lahaina residents from selling and leaving—not to mention the fact that the next big rain could wash it all into the ocean!
BUT in all this haste and desperation to fast track the decision to place the toxins in Oluwalu, are we then creating a whole new problem?
At the Dec. 22nd meeting the TMK for the possible permanent site of 14 acres was revealed to be right next to the ‘temporary’ TMK site of 5 acres. It is quite possible, and perhaps probable, that the County or Mayor will choose to make it the permanent site. Once the ash is dumped onto this “temporary” site, the damage is done. This is a violation of the Ohana of Olowalu, its ancestors and all of our future descendants, our Keiki. The aquifer is a lattice of underground streams, and when toxins enter this lattice they will contaminate, not just down stream, but upward and crosswise for miles in every direction!
Let’s rise above this division and come to a solution we can all get behind! After the fires, we came together in such creative passion and devotion and were able to overcome so many obstacles and do workarounds at every roadblock to get to the people in need—with food, water, and supplies. We can do that again, here, with this issue! We need the same energy and dedication NOW!
Just because we have not found a solution we can all get behind yet, does not mean it does not exist… and yes, I know time is of the essence.
Separating out the small amount of cremated bones that have not yet been recovered, as best we can, and making a monument to commemorate our loved ones’ lives, is one beautiful solution. Once separated, could it be possible to carry the rest of the toxic ash in sealed containers (by Helicopter, perhaps, in order to not clog up the roadways?) to a place where there is BLUE rock foundation, not cinder, where we can then also place the liner we now have in Oluwalu? I understand that the land next to the Central Maui Landfill is on BLUE ROCK, is not a cultural site, sanctuary, or conservation district.
These are just my current ideas. Ultimately, I am asking for a time and place, very soon, where we can all come together as a community to share ideas and solutions.
Lastly- IT IS IMPERATIVE that we consider newer, proven technologies such as the use of mycelium in the soil and the idea of pyrolysis (and there are also other technologies from various countries and space missions used to make this kind of toxic material inert). And if we are able to use pyrolysis to break down the toxic material and entomb it into concrete—much like Pele does in her Lava—then once this ash is neutralized we could begin to do the same with our landfill trash(!)--which would be a huge win for our entire island and our planet. We could provide a blue print for the rest of the world, if we choose to do so, at this unprecedented time in our history.
Kecia Joy
Captain Planet Says Absolutely No! To Toxic Waste & Pollution! We're The Planeteers You Can Be One Too, Because Saving The Planet IS The Thing To Do! Pollution & CORRUPTION IS NOT THE WAY! Here's What Captain Planet Has To Say "The Power Is Yours" To Oppose to Toxic Waste, Pollution, & Stupidity!
Here's The Facts Jack from Living Earth Systems
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zpSCx0e4-PfYsJnc6uRcOjwCLtC5bXOrxCPe8yT2cUc/edit?usp=drivesdk
The County of Maui & Governor Josh Doodoo Green isn't telling the whole truth to the public and discussing several key issues, such as Poisions & Hawaiian Sacred Religious & Historical Cultural Sites & Ancient Burials
The County is telling the public that they will be recycling the concrete and other materials that can be recycled. Are they taking into account the migration of dioxins into porous concrete material?
Dioxin is known to migrate into concrete, so what is the process for dealing with this dioxin-laden recycled concrete? How will they text for this and manage concrete dust and where will it be taken to perform the recycling? Are they planning to use a crusher onsite which will release dioxin particulates into the environment? When crushing concrete, these dioxin particles move around in air and water and air filters will not detect them. Dioxins are destroyed only in excess of 1,200 degrees.
DESECRATION AND DESTRUCTION OF INDIGENOUS HAWAIIAN ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES
The Army Corps of Engineers is bulldozing and excavating sacred Hawaiian archeological and cultural sites, turning them into temporary and permanent toxic waste dumps as documented by drone footage and several photo diagrams below.
The archeological significance of the Olowalu area is detailed in a February 2012 survey of Hawaiian cultural sites for the Olowalu Town Project and Master Plan. The survey describes more than 40 significant Hawaiian structures and features such as heaius, the Olowalu Petroglyph Complex, burial complexes, habitation complexes and other petroglyph sites, terrace and mounds, skeletal remains (Iwi)
The Olowalu toxic waste site features some of the most prominent Hawaiian archeological features in the entire Olowalu valley. However, it is not included in the master plan survey since it was outside the proposed Olowalu Town Development Project and Master Plan.
Contaminating this site with some of the world’s most dangerous, cancer-causing toxins will prevent lineal descendants of the Olowalu Valley from visiting the site and will permanently restrict it from any further Hawaiian ceremonial cultural use.
At least four known significant archeological structures are threatened by the toxic waste dump site and damaging excavation practices underway. There are also likely several burial mounds located on the western-facing slope of the cinder temple that are being desecrated.
The proposed Olowalu toxic dump site holds significant historical and cultural significance to native Hawaiians who are unanimously opposed to its use as a toxic waste dump. (Olowalu Massacre) Many are calling this a second Olowalu Massacre—a massacre of the ʻāina and erasure of Hawaiian history. (Council Minutes (12/22/23)
Hinano Rodrigues described Olowalu cinder pits sited for the toxic waste dump as considered by indigenous Hawaiian kupuna as the “ovaries of Pele” and has expressed his opposition and his whole community’s opposition.
Numerous lineal descendants of the region testified during the December 22, 2023, Maui County Council special session (minutes yet to be published), describing the deep offense and outrage at having not been consulted by the same decision-makers claiming to care about cultural sensitivity during the debris removal process. (Lahaina Community Meeting (12/18/2023), (Council Minutes (12/22/23)
A survey published by Lahaina Strong documented 98% opposition to the Olowalu toxic waste site by local Hawaiian residents of Lahaina, many of whom are lineal descendants. (Lahaina Community Meeting (12/18/2023)
Hawaiian families who both live in, farm and run businesses in Olowalu have voiced extreme opposition. (Council Minutes (12/22/23)
FEDERAL LAWS VIOLATED / STATE LAWS SUSPENDED UNDER “EMERGENCY PROCLAMATION”
The County is in violation of at least 10 Federal Laws suspended under its Emergency Proclamation including: the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, Endangered Species Act. Toxic Substances Control Act, and too many others to list.
The County is also in violation of at least 10 municipal laws, notably its climate change and resilience commitments described in Ordinance 5264 which minimizes runoff of pollutants into nearshore waters and air, aquatic, and marine environments.
The County violates at least 10 of its own municipal codes designed to protect the public and our Hawaiian culture—a culture now as endangered as the whales. It is the job of the County to protect, not cause further injury to the public and our endangered Hawaiian culture.
OPPOSITION TO OLOWALU TOXIC DUMP SITE
Sylvia Earle, Mission Blue World-Renowned Marine Biologist, first female chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (former), National Geographic Explorer at Large, Time Magazine’s first Hero for the Planet
Liz Taylor, President of Deep Ocean Exploration and Research (DOER)
Office of Hawaiian Affairs
Hinano Rodrigues, lineal descendant of the Olowalu Valley who represents the kupuna of the region. (Watch Kawai Rodrigues Testimonial Video at https://shorturl.at/INX02)
Hawaii State Department of Health Officer and Maui’s top public health official, Dr. Lorrin Pang (watch interview)
Sierra Club (Civil Beat: Experts Raise Concerns Over Planned Use Of Olowalu Landfill To Store Fire Debris)
Larry Holm, Lead Engineer, Toxic Waste Site Development, Parson’s Engineering
Maui Nature Conservancy. Civil Beat: Maui Starts Building Temporary Landfill For Wildfire Ash And Debris Despite Public Concerns
Petitions released have collected more than 10,000 signatures in opposition to the dump site
Several expert testimonies were provided during the Maui County Council Special Session on December 22, 2023 by scientific and health experts in opposition (Council Minutes (12/22/23)
As of December 23, 2023, there have not been any community testimonies in support of this proposed temporary toxic waste site.
ALTERNATIVE CONCEPTS THAT ARE VIABLE FOR TOXIC WASTE DISPOSAL
According to Maui County officials, the Olowalu toxic waste site was selected for logistical convenience, speed of returning Lahaina residents to their properties, cost reduction, and economic stimulation. (Lahaina Community Meeting (12/18/2023),
A large portion of the community that is in opposition, especially those living in Olowalu valley and who treasure its marine sanctuary, believe it’s paramount to keep toxic waste from contaminating the ocean and other precision natural resources.
To achieve these goals, the community has researched and presented only a few concepts for consideration. There are likely many others to be explored. It is recommended the County of Maui consult with several of the experts cited below and explore additional ideas.
ALTERNATIVE TEMPORARY SITE CONCEPTS
The County of Maui could work with the local community and business owners to procure or lease an alternative temporary site for storage of toxic debris within the Lahaina burn zone (approximately 10 acres based on the current temporary site of 6.7 acres).
The Lahaina burn zone is already contaminated and therefore possesses fewer environmental cross-contamination risks and threats to the public health of Maui residents and visitors during removal and transportation. Those who are in Lahaina are in hazmat protection and protected by air monitors.The transportation to a Lahaina burn zone site is also vastly more cost effective.
Central Lahaina is a more desirable site when compared with Olowalu’s unstable cinder and loose sediment substrate and with its unpredictable, terrain-induced accelerated winds and flash flooding.
Central Lahaina features low wind and rainfall and will be much less prone to cross-contamination of pristine environments, threats to public health, and contamination of historical cultural sites, as well as Maui’s most precious reef ecosystem.
Once transported, it is recommended waste be moved into safe containment units and readied for relocation to a permanent destination. This will be a much easier and economically viable solution than to dig toxic debris out of the temporary Olowalu site using measures like “burrito wrapping” or other more protective high-tech container systems which have been identified.
The toxic debris “readying” process would likely entail a combination of technologies already vetted and proven to work and in use today. Below are some descriptions of these options with links to scientific experts and universities for more information.
PERMANENT SITE AND WASTE PROCESSING CONCEPTS
CONCEPT 1: USE FEMA DOLLARS TO EITHER REMOVE A PORTION OF THE TOXIC WASTE, OR USE THE CENTRAL MAUI LANDFILL OR OTHER SITE TO SAFELY STORE IT AND NEUTRALIZE IT BY EMPLOYING BIOREMEDIATION TECHNOLOGIES
FEMA has agreed to transport and pay for toxic debris removal, currently estimated to perhaps cost billions of dollars and take approximately 3 years.
To reduce the time to remove debris, and cost, we can prioritize the most toxic wastes for removal off island. The remaining waste can be transported to the Central Maui landfill.
Along with this approach, we can explore the potential of bioremediation to neutralize heavy toxins shown in multiple use cases to be fast and effective biological methods for detoxifying contaminated sites including the Gulf oil spill tragedy. (National Institute of Health). These can be effective for wildfire toxin neutralization as well.
If you want to know more, talk to Mr. EDDY GARCIA
www.recenters.org
Aloha
President Sheby "Keiki'okalani" Billionaire
#Pikachu
Just Say No!
Strongly oppose
December 28, 2023
Subject: Strong Opposition to Toxic Ash Disposal in Olowalu Mayor Bissen and The Maui County Council
I am writing to you as an engaged voter and concerned member of the Maui County Community, expressing my vehement opposition to the proposed toxic waste disposal site in Olowalu.
The prospect of temporarily storing these hazardous substances in our community poses an imminent threat of causing irreparable harm to our invaluable soil, water, air, ocean, and, most importantly, our people.
Olowalu, recognized as a Pu`uhonua, a Place of Refuge, holds deep cultural and environmental significance. Placing a toxic waste disposal site in this sacred location endangers both human and environmental health, compromising the very essence of what Olowalu represents.
Detailed toxicology reports have revealed that the ash debris slated for disposal contains alarming levels of Arsenic, Lead, Antimony, Cobalt, and Copper. These toxic elements have the potential to inflict severe and lasting damage to our local ecosystems and endanger the well-being of our community members.
I urge you to reconsider the decision to establish a toxic waste disposal site in Olowalu. Instead, I propose redirecting the toxic ash to designated landfills on the Mainland United States, where facilities are specifically equipped to handle and mitigate the risks associated with such hazardous waste.
Furthermore, I strongly advocate for the creation of a separate memorial dedicated to the victims of the Lahaina Fire. It is inappropriate and disrespectful to intermingle a memorial with toxic waste, and the memory of those affected by the tragedy deserves a place of remembrance distinct from potential environmental hazards.
In conclusion, I stand resolutely against the establishment of a toxic waste site in Olowalu. The inherent risks to our community, `Aina, and Kai are too significant to ignore. I implore you to prioritize the well-being of our environment and the safety of our residents.
Also... At the meeting at Lahaina Civic Center on Dec. 18, brief remarks were given by a person referred to only as Brittany. I have been able to ascertain this is Brittany Zimmerman of Yummet. It is also my understanding her company is already active on the Big Island, converting toxic and solid waste into a benign concrete material. I wonder why this approach has not gained more traction for Maui.
Yes, the toxic ash needs to be removed from Lahaina as soon as possible. However, this option seems rushed and easily botched. This site is supposedly temporary and all EPA standards will be upheld, but having closely watched the litigation against Maui County’s violation of the Clean Water Act with respect to the Lahaina waste treatment injection wells, I cannot say that my trust lies in Maui County’s ability to refrain from cutting corners. As someone who lost my home, I am willing to wait to rebuild to make sure that the clean up process is done properly. I have seen some amazing alternative ideas put forward that seem to go unconsidered. The future of Lahaina AND Olowalu can be beautiful if we get this right the first time. As I learned from someone today, the Hawaiian word for this is Kina’ole. Let’s do this right for the right reasons the first time.
I Strongly Oppose Using Olowalu as your Toxic Guinea Pig & Here is a Youtube Video I made to explain in it to you in a simple easy to understand format; Click the button & Link Below and Awaken Your Mind to How The Community Truly Feels!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyS_7WGwrUs
Google Data Fact Sheet: Olowalu, Maui
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zpSCx0e4-PfYsJnc6uRcOjwCLtC5bXOrxCPe8yT2cUc/edit?fbclid=IwAR0d7VbRkCpxV7ms863Il6hUJJ9UFp9gdA4zBRh16Np1M08HsYD8UrRf-ho
Aloha
Bruce Wayne
I strongly oppose and am in favor of researching the Yummet Earth Solutions. How can that not be worth researching? Please consider this!
Lanny Daise
I am writing in opposition to your Temporary Toxic Dump Site in Olowalu. I reside less than 2 miles away from the location and am very concerned for the health of myself and my family, as well as the fronting beaches that we spend all of our spare time at.
Your decisions to make this a temporary dump site are rash and reckless. The results of this decision will only cost you so much more in the long run as it will have a catastrophic negative impact on our environment, the reefs and sea life, and our very lives and livelihoods.
With just some basic research, anyone can conclude that it's not a matter of if the toxins will reach people in our community and the reef, but when. It's just absurd to me that you would consider rolling the dice with people's lives and the environment. You apparently do not live anywhere near Olowalu, nor do you spend your weekends like hundreds of others at Launiupoko Beach Park.
I implore you to take the time to reconsider and dispose of the toxins in a proper manner that will not cost more lives and cause more damage to our environment.
Should you choose to move forward with your reckless decision, I will, without a doubt be selling my home and moving elsewhere. I will be the first of many whom will not think twice to sell their home to someone from the mainland because you give us no alternative. My family's health is my number one priority. I am born and raised in Hawaii and worked tirelessly to buy my home in Lahaina where I have resided for the last 25 \years.It will be a shame to see it destroyed by reckless decisions hiding under the emergency proclamation.
Mahalo
Absolutely Oppose
Greetings Committee Chair, Council Member, Tamara Paltin. On behalf of the Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina, we submit our opposition to the AUGUST 2023 MAUI WILDFIRES TEMPORARY DEBRIS DISPOSAL SITE AND FINAL DEBRIS DISPOSAL SITE (DRIP-2(13) at Awalua, Olowalu based on the County of Maui’s failure to exercise a fundamental cultural protocol and cornerstone of our native Hawaiian ‘Home Culture’ which is ask permission before entering/taking.
As reported at the Board of Land and Natural Resources Meeting on October 27, 2023, and a Civil Beat Article on October 27, 2023, by Paula Dobbyn a letter sent to Gov. Josh Green from Maui’s Mayor, Richard Bissen on September 20, 2023, clearly states The County of Maui had already decided to use land at Awalua, Olowalu as a debris disposal site and memorial for the August 2023 Maui Wildfires without consulting Ancestral Family Kupuna (Elders) and Makua (Adults) still residing in Olowalu.
See the following attached documents:
1. BLNR Meeting_27Oct23 https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/D-9-1.pdf
2. Civil Beat Article on Awalua_10.27.23 State Land Board OKs Olowalu For Ash And Debris Disposal From Maui Fires - Honolulu Civil Beat
3. Email_12.28.2023_Shayne Agawa, County of Maui (pdf file)
4. Email_12.29.2023_Klein-Moore, FEMA (pdf file)
5. Email_12.29.2023_Ferreira, OHA (pdf file)
6. ARCHAEOLOGICAL TREATMENT PLAN (ATP) by FEMA Environmental and Historic Preservation (pdf file)
7. Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 13-Chapter 300 Rules of Practice and Procedures Relating to Burial Sites ad Human Remain https://files.hawaii.gov/dlnr/shpd/rules/300.pdf
Summary of Attached Documents:
Email_12.28.2023_Shayne Agawa, County of Maui
Lack of Transparency and Inappropriate Hawaiian Cultural Advisors/Consultants for Lahaina.
In the Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina, the Rodrigues-Kaahui Ohana of Olowalu/Ukumehame, the Vernon Kalanikau Ohana of Kula Uka/Kula Kai all have the experiences and memories of “youthful years” growing up in Lahaina; however not included in the consultation and decision-making process for this AUGUST 2023 MAUI WILDFIRES TEMPORARY DEBRIS DISPOSAL SITE AND FINAL DEBRIS DISPOSAL SITE (DRIP-2(13).
Note: On page 9 of the ATP, a List of names of the NHO’s and Consulting Parties to which 90% I am familiar with did not grow up, experience, have ‘youthful years’ of Lahaina as the Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina, the Rodrigues-Kaahui Ohana of Olowalu/Ukumehame, the Vernon Kalanikau Ohana of Kula Uka/Kula Kai all have
It would behoove us all in the recovery and rebuilding of Lahaina, to include in the consultation process the appropriate and experienced resources mentioned here.
Email_12.29.2023_Klein-Moore, FEMA
As this email thread shows, the section 106 notification to the NHOs and recognized Parties for this undertaking was sent first without including the Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina…
• November 4, 2023, Notification from David J. Herdich Sent to NHOs except Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina.
• November 18, 2023, Kimokeo Ohana first learns of this undertaking and failure to be notified.
• November 28, 2023, Kimokeo Ohana receives email from FEMA’s Nicholas Moore, informing us that they learned Kimokeo Ohana was not included in the November 4, 2023, notification letter and included a copy of the notification letter.
Email_12.29.2023_Ferreira, OHA
Kamakana C. Ferreira, M.A., Lead Compliance Specialist of Office of Hawaiian Affairs response to my December 29, 2023, email explained OHA did not respond to FEMA’s notification until after the 5-day deadline.
In their email response, OHA did request consultation records and asked that the SHPD History & Culture Branch be included as part of consultation as to assist with identifying descendants and families to consult within the area.
In response to Mr. Ferreira’s response 2 photos from a drone over the Awalua disposal site shows what appears to be ancient native Hawaiian Archaeological structures which may likely not be registered and/or mentioned in this undertaking.
Further investigation of this site is warranted.
At the time of this writing, I had not received any replies.
The Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina opposes the August 2023 Debris Disposal Site at Awalua, Olowalu on the following basis:
• County of Maui’s Lack of Transparency and Cultural Protocols/sensitivity.
• FEMA’s Failure to ensure proper notification of Section 106 Notification.
• Adverse Impact to an unregistered Ancient Hawaiian Cultural Site
Remedy:
1. Cessation of all construction work for the Debris Disposal Site at Awalua, Olowalu
2. Reopen the section 106 process to be in compliance.
3. Select and expedite a Temporary Debris Disposal Site within the Burn Zone where the toxic ash with possible human remains can be barrito-wrapped, sealed, and remain originally within the Ahupua’a which is consistent with native Hawaiian culture and Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 13-Chapter 300 RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE RELATING TO BURIAL SITES AND HUMAN REMAIN
Mahalo
Foster Ampong, Kimokeo Ohana (Family) and Community
Family Genealogy & History
Phone (808) 281-3894
Email: kekahunakeaweiwi@yahoo.com
cc: Kimokeo Ohana of Lahaina
Rodrigues-Kaahui Ohana of Olowalu/Ukumehame, Attn: Hinano Rodrigues
Kalanikau Ohana of Kula Uka/Kula Kai, Attn: Vernon Kananilaie Kalanikaukaalaneokeopulani
Note: Attachments for this written testimony exceed maximum allowed characters however are available upon written request.
The temporary disposal site at Olowalu is destined to be an environmental catastrophe — one that could threaten the health of many generations to come. It is also a desecration of sacred Hawaiian land. Please stop this work immediately and look at safer alternatives to handling the toxic debris. I implore you to take the time needed to decide on a better long-term plan and not compound the Lahaina tragedy by devastating our aina with carcinogens in our soil, ocean, aquifers, and air. Our future depends on you’re doing the right thing. Mahalo.
I'm a current resident of Maui, and lived in Lahaina for 10 years. At the meeting at Lahaina Civic Center on Dec. 18, brief remarks were given by a person referred to only as Brittany. I have been able to ascertain this is Brittany Zimmerman of Yummet. It is also my understanding her company is already active on the Big Island, converting toxic and solid waste into a benign concrete material. I wonder why this approach has not gained more traction for Maui. Looking through the written testimony submitted here as of 12.29.23, I find no mention of Brittany Zimmerman or Yummet (there were a couple of references to pyrolysis, gasification, and/or polymerization given by other testifiers). Neither is there specific mention in eComments as of about 3:330 pm 1.1.24, beyond one or maybe two. Also, while a response was solicited from FEMA on the possibility of removing debris off island, I find no communication with Zimmerman or Yummet to clarify the feasibility of their services or methods for disposing of debris from Lahaina. Therefore, I oppose the creation of a temporary or permanent waste dump at Olowalu until all these alternatives have been fully considered. It seems to me that conversion of the debris into inert material is of more value environmentally than the conventional process offered by FEMA for the burial of Lahaina.
I am opposed to the use of Olowalu as a temporary debris removal site. The wildfire ash is toxic, and lawful procedures for disposing of such toxic waste are not being followed because the Mayor's emergency proclamation suspended them. The County must prioritize protecting the reef and the whole marine ecosystem and must treat the Hawaiian cultural sites with greater respect. From the Dec 18 community meeting, it is clear that the County personnel are not familiar with bioremediation and processes for rendering the toxic material harmless. Until the County considers these methods, it is not ready to take any action on toxic ash removal. I call on the County to STOP this plan. Olowalu is not a safe site, and the County's current plans fall far short of safe disposal.
I strongly oppose the dumping of the toxic debris at Olowalu. Better solutions have been presented!!! Save the land, the people, the ocean and environment!!