‘Complete disregard’
Developing an operation to produce “convenience water” in Hawaii is fraught with many negatives for our community, from the environmental to respect for our ‘aina. For these reasons, it’s not a surprise to see communities come together in opposition to the proposal, which has culminated in the county denying a permit to Piilani Partners LLC.
On the other hand, there are some benefits to Hawaii that include opportunities for local employment and tax revenue. However, one aspect of this unfolding drama is that the proponents of the business have not made any efforts to address community concerns in the slightest. That shows a certain level of disrespect for the community that cannot be ignored.
One example of working with the communities would be to address concerns. Some of these concerns could actually be addressed in a feasible way for the company.
For example, a growing amount of retail stores on the mainland carry “boxed” water as a more environmentally sound alternative to plastic bottles. Cartons are made from recycled paper and are entirely compostable. They ship more efficiently and do not produce a material that threatens our sea life.
Another example of working with the community would be to establish a funding source from profits of the operation to go to our communities here on Hawaii Island that support the hard-working not-for-profit groups involved in sustaining our people, culture and environment.
Piilani Partners’ most recent legal challenge to the county shows again their complete disregard for our communities. I’m not surprised that when I Googled for their contact information, I discovered that the LLC and its chief executives are a registered entity in Honolulu, far from where they propose to do business in Hilo.
Raymond Pajek
Kapa‘au
All about the money
The Tribune-Herald headline, “Leilani Estates vs the tourists,” is incorrect. It should read, “Leilani Estates vs the MONEY.”
As long as there is no enforcement (hint — that’s a Puna joke) or monetary fine, the tourist cattle buses will do what they do best: Take the money and ignore the local homeowners’ complaints.
Their “we respect the ‘aina” is total BS. The only thing they respect is the DOLLAR (or yen or peso, etc.)
In America, in the fight between citizens’ rights versus the dollar, they’re going to lose 99% of the time.
Welcome to America.
William Wade
Kehena Beach