Another tax?
Responding to the Tribune-Herald’s Nov. 26 article on recreational fishing licenses, I find it shameful, but upon further review, more typical of our legislators nickel-and-diming us at every turn.
Rep. Nicole Lowen D-N. Kona, stated multiple bills have been introduced to address noncommercial fishing regulations during her six-year term. Apparently, the legislators have nothing better to do than work to impose another tax and more regulations on the public. This proposed $5 fishing license tax proves there is nothing and no amount they won’t grovel for.
Seems to me tackling the hundreds of tons of fishing net and gear washing up on our shores, polluting and killing sea life, is not as important to the legislators as taxing family fishermen?
Bob Smith
Pepeekeo
Protect Kohala Coast
I am writing this letter in response to the proposed new expansion of military operations along the Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii.
I and many other families live near, value and enjoy this unique area. This is our “playground” to be enjoyed and appreciated, not just now, but for future generations as well.
Not only is it home now to a fragile ecosystem including a variety of coral, fish and pods of dolphins, this area is a designated whale sanctuary, which is a huge enjoyment for many.
We are at a delicate time within the history of the Hawaiian Islands that if we do not step up and let our concerns be heard, it may be too late to change course.
Must we challenge nature again with these military exercises? Do we continue until the last whale is gone?
The Kohala Coast is unique, and we already see how our coast is suffering the consequences of climate change. It needs time to recover and heal instead of further insult by military exercises.
The military historically has left a trail of degradation upon these island already. Rather than exploit the unique Kohala Coast, perhaps returning to a location already degraded would be in everyone’s best interest.
I read the environmental impact statement which, in my opinion, makes light of a very devastating proposal. We, living in the Kohala Coast area already feel and hear the military bombings and aircraft flying over our homes.
Yes, we get it that you need a location for your military practice. Please, let’s leave the Kohala coastline protected and valued as the precious place that it is.
Helen Swinney
Kohala Ranch