HomeMy WebLinkAbout5-27-14 minutsKA.UA'I PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
May 27, 2014 .
The regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the County of Kaua' i was called to order by
Chair Kimura at 9:09 a.m., at the Lshu`e Civic Center, Mo`ikeha Building, in meeting room 2A-
2B. The following Commissioners were present:
Mr. Sean Mahoney
Mr. Wayne Katayama
Ms. Angela Anderson
Mr. John Isobe
Mr. Jan Kimura
Absent and Excused:
Mr. Hartwell Blake
Ms. Any Mendonca
The following staff members were present: Planning Department — Michael Dahilig, Leslie
Takasaki, Ka'aina Hull, Kenneth Estes, Marisa Valenciano; Office of Boards and Commissions
— Cherisse Zaima; Deputy County Attorney Ian Jung
Discussion of the meeting, in effect, ensued:
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Kimura called the meeting to order at 9:09 a.m.
ROLL CALL
Planning Director Michael Dahilig noted that there were five Commissioners present.
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Mr. Dahilig requested that Item. H. Executive Session be moved to immediately follow
Item G. Consent Calendar.
On the motion by Wayne Katayama and seconded by Sean Mahoney to approve the
agenda as amended, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Page 1 of 13
MINUTES of the meeting(s) of the Planning Commission
Meeting of f Mgy 13, 2014
On the motion by Sean Mahoney and seconded by Angela Anderson to approve the
minutes of the May 13, 2014 meeting, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
RECEIPT OF ITEMS FOR THE RECORD
On the motion by Angela Anderson and seconded by Sean Mahoney to receive the
items for the record, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
HEARINGS AND PUBLIC COMMENT
Continued Agency Hearing
There was no continued agency hearing.
New Agency Hearing
Class 1V Zoning Permit Z -N- 2014 -12, Use Permit U- 2014 -11 and Variance Permit V-
2014-3 to allow installation and height variance for a 100 ft. High stealth monopine tower and
associated equipment on a parcel situated in Lihu`e, immediately west of the Kauai Humane
Society facility and along the mauka side of Kaumuali`i High a further identified as Tax Ma
Key 3-4 -005: 018, affecting a 2,500 sq. td. portion of a lamer parcel approx. 25.42 acres in size =
Verizon Wireless [Director's Report received 5/13/14.1
On the motion by Sean Mahoney and seconded by Wayne Katayama to close agency
bearing, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Continued Public Hearing
Zoning Amendment ZA- 201.4 -6, Amendments to Chapter 8 of the Kauai County_ Code
1987, as amended, relating to the incorporation of non -zoned lands into the County„ of Kauai
Agriculture Zoning District. These amendments identif lands not currently zoned by the
County of Kauai and re- designate them within the Agriculture Zoning District = County of
Kauai. [Hearing continued 3/25/14.1
On the motion by Sean Mahoney and seconded by Angela Anderson to close public
hearing, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Page 2 of 13
New Public Hearing
Zoning Amendment ZA- 2014 -7. Amendments to Chapter 8 of the Kauai County Code
1987, as amended relating to Article 17 — Nonconforming Use Certificates for Single Family
Vacation Rentals. This amendment proposes to increase annual renewal fees from five hundred
dollars ($500.00) to seven - hundred fifty dollars ($750.00) which shall be deposited into the
County General Fund = County ofKaua `i.
On the motion by Angela Anderson and seconded by Sean Mahoney to close public
hearing, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
New Public Hearing
There was no new public hearing.
All public testimony pursuant to HRS 92
The Commission received testimony from Mr. Manini, representing the Kanaka Hui. He
stated that an attorney has already gone to Congress and filed a claim on all these lands, which
was posted in the Garden Island (newspaper) on February 21, 2013. He challenged the County
to try and claim these lands through the Fifth Circuit Court, noting that it is not an issue for that
court as these are international lands that sit on international waters. He added that the County
has no right to claim these lands, and if they decide to sue, they will sue individuals as well. Mr.
Manini referenced the shaded areas of the map provided, stating those lands the County holds are
all fee simple, which he feels is immigration law. He stated neither the people nor the County
own anything. Mr. Manini stated that he worked for the Robinson family for 45 years, and that
they along with the Knudsen family were the ones who started the County back before many of
the Commissioners were even born. He cautioned them to be careful what they say.
Mr. Kimura stated the County is not trying to claim the land, they are just trying to zone
lands that are not currently zoned. Mr. Manini replied that when.the County rezones something,
they try to claim it as theirs and then begin to tax it. He feels the County does not have the right
to tax any of the lands as they have no way of knowing which are Kanaka Hui lands, and which
are Hawaiian Kingdom lands. Mr. Manini feels that some of the tax money collected on these
lands belongs to them. Mr. Maninni stated they never complained before because the Hawaiians
were challenging the State, and they had to wait 20 years for the Hawaiians to stop contesting.
The Hawaiians.have nothing to contest because the Hawaiians do not own anything, which was
proved by the State.
Mr. Jung explained that the County is not trying to claim the land, but are placing
different zoning on those lands, which would then place different sets of rules for those lands.
Mr. Manini replied the Kanaka Hui does not want the County to make rules on their lands. They
do not need the County to zone their lands and make rules. He reiterated that they are'not
Hawaiian lands, noting what the County and the State claimed were Hawaiian lands; these lands
Page 3 of 13
are not Hawaiian lands. Mr. Jung stated. the ultimate decision maker on this issue is the County
Council, but it is the Planning Commission must look at whether it is good policy to make non -
zoned lands Agriculture. Mr. Mann' insisted it is not State land, and the State still needs to
prove it is their land; the United States, the State, and the County have no jurisdiction on
international lands, and international waters. He pointed out these are international lands on
international waters, part of the Polynesian triangle, and stated that the County should not try to
change anything because they will not be able to. Mr. Jung stated that is an argument that can be
raised in the courts to which Mr. Manini replied they have a deed that is ready to go to court. He
cautioned. the Commission to watch what they are doing as the Kanaka Hui is watching them
very carefully as both a body and as individuals.
Mr. Jung pointed out that Mr. Manini's statements are for a different discussion, and right
now the discussion should be on the zoning issue alone. He explained to Mr. Manini that this
will ultimately go to County Council, so testimony can be given there.
Mr. Kimura stated he would be allowing Mr. Manini an additional two minutes to
provide testimony to which Mr. Manini stated he is answering to a letter sent to him by the
Planning Department. He expressed his frustration with the limited time being offered to him,
and stated. that the Kanaka Hui does not accept what is being presented.
Mr. Kimura thanked Mr. Manini for his testimony.
Mr. Jung stated that Mr. Manini's opposition to this proposal will be documented for the
County Council.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Status Reports
There were no status reports.
Director's Report (s) for Project(s) Scheduled for Agency Hearing on 5/27/14
Class IV Zoning Permit Z -IV- 2014 -13 and Use Permit U- 2014 -12 to allow establishment
of a group child care center facility on parcels located along the mauka side of Oka Road in
Kilauea Town situated approx. 150 ft. north of the Oka. Road /Moroi Street intersection further
identified as Tax Map Keys 4 5 -2 -014: 021 & 5 -2 -015: 079 and containing a total area of
approx. 18,469 sq. ft. = Patricia & Gabriel Padilla.
Class IV Zoning Permit Z -IV- 2014 -14 and Use Permit U- 2014 -13 to convert existing
residence into a commercial operation for shipping, printing and storage services. on a parcel
located along the makai side of Kuhio Highway in Kapa`a Town situated Uprox 100 ft north
of the Panihi Road /Kuhio Highwgy Highway intersection further identified as Tax Ma Key 4 4 -5 -003:
01.6, and containing a total area of approx. 11,250 sq. ft. = John & Catherine Gillen.
Page 4 of 13
Class TV Zoning Permit Z- IV- 2014 -15 and Use Permit U- 2014 -14 for a development
containing a mixture of commercial use and multi - family residential units. on a parcel located
along the western side of Po`ipu Road in Koloa, situated )ust north of the Koloa Estates
Residential Subdivision and approx. 850 ft. from its intersection with Lopaka Paipa. Boulevard_
further identified as Tax Map Key (4) 2 -6 -004: 032, and containing a total area of approx. 63,815
sq. ft. = Gwendolyn A. Mocksing, et al.
Shoreline Setback Activity Determination
Shoreline Setback Commission Review SSCR- 2014 -25 and Shoreline Setback
Determination SSD- 2014 -62 for a shoreline activity determination, Tax Map Key 5 -3 -012: 01.1
Princeville, Kauai, for acceptance by the Commission = Tatyana Khein, .Applicant.
Mr. Katayama referenced Item G.2.a regarding the compatibility of the surrounding area, "
and asked what is the closest agricultural zoned land identified to this child care center. Mr.
Jung stated these are items that will be up for hearing at the next meeting at which time specific
questions can be raised. Mr. Katayama replied he feels the application should be amended to be
more specific.
On the motion by Wayne Katayama and seconded by Sean Mahoney to accept the
Consent Calendar, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes Sections 92 -4, 92- 5(a)(4) and (8), and Kauai
County Charter Section 3.07(E), the Office of the County Attorneyre,_quests an executive session
with the Planning Commission to provide a briefing _regarding _legal issues related to the
Telecommunications Act of 1996 and federal preemption. This briefing and consultation
involves the consideration of the powers, duties privileges, immunities and /or liabilities of the
Planning Commission and the County as they related to this agenda item.
On the motion by Angela Anderson and seconded by Wayne Katayama to enter into
executive session, the motion carried by .unanimous voice vote.
(The meeting resumed in executive session at 9:37 a.m.)
(The meeting reconvened in regular session at 10:27 a.m.)
GENERAL BUSINESS MATTERS
Page S of 13
I
Appointment of alternate member to the Subdivision Committee
Mr. Dahilig explained due to recent personal matters, they have been unable to maintain
quorum for the Subdivision Committee, and recommends an alternate member be appointed to
achieve quorum in the event of an absence of another member.
On the motion by Wayne Katayama and seconded by Angela Anderson to appoint
Jan Kimura as alternate member of the Subdivision Committee, the motion carried by
unanimous voice vote.
Petition to Appeal the Decision of the Planning Director by Jonathan J. Chun,.,_)Jsa.,
representing William and Mw at et Hosmer concerning the non- issuance of Transient Vacation
Rental Certificate TVNC -4120 (TMK No. 49004008) filed on 4/15/14 Contested Case No. CC-
2014-2)
Mr. Dahilig stated the clerk of the Commission would recommend the matter be referred
to a hearings officer.
Mr. Katayama asked what is the issue being appealed to which Mr. Dahilig replied the
applicant was denied a TVNC.
Mike Laureta, Planner explained this TVR application was submitted three months after
the implementing ordinance expired. The intake personnel at that tinie were instructed to receive
everything, and put it aside; no action was taken on the application because there was no
ordinance to guide it as it had sunset. The applicant is appealing the fact that the TVR certificate
was not issued, and that the Planning Department should have processed the application when
the subsequent Ordinance 904 was implemented. However, that was not the way things were
done. After the fact applications either went dead, or were resubmitted when 904 carne into
effect. An after -the -fact application does not carry forward and must be re- applied for.
Mr. Katayama asked if there had been other applications that had fallen into a similar
situation to which Mr. Laureta replied no, all the applications dealt with to date were re- applied
for.
On the motion by Angela Anderson and seconded by Sean Mahoney to refer the
contested case to a bearings officer, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Petition. to Appeal the Decision of the Planning Director by Ed Bert Dor Concenim
Illegal Transient Vacation Rental (TMK No. 55010032) filed on 9/11/13 (Contested Case No.
CC- 2013 -75)
Mr. Kimura asked why this TVR is considered illegal to which Mr. Laureta replied this
case is a pure, illegal TVR operation that never applied for the certificate. Inspectors went out
based on a complaint, and the owner acknowledged and admitted he was running the operation,
Page 6 of 13
was served a cease and desist, which they appealed. There have been several requests for
deferrals as they try to come up with an alternative method to address the use. It has been
determined that because there is no TVR ordinance in effect, a TVR certificate cannot be issued.
The only option is a homestay, or bed and breakfast application. However, that will not be
addressed until the issue with the illegal TVR is resolved.
On the motion by Angela Anderson and seconded by Sean Mahoney to refer the
contested case to a hearings officer, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
COMMUNICATION (For Action)
There were no communications.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Subdivision
No subdivision meeting was held.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS (For Action)
There was no unfinished business.
NEW BUSINESS
Class IV Zoning Permit Z -IV- 2014 -12, Use Permit U- 2014 -11 and Variance Permit V-
2014-3 to allow installation and heidt variance for a 100 ft. highh stealth monopine tower and
associated equipment on a parcel situated in Llhu`e, immediately west of the Kauai Humane
Socie facifi and along the mauka side ofKaumuali`i Hi>hwa further identified as Tax Ma
Key 3 -4 -005: 018, affecting a 2.500 sq. ft. portion of a larger parcel approx. 25.42 acres in size =
Verizon Wireless iDirector's Report received 5/13/14.1
Staff Planner Ka'aina Hull provided some background on the application. He noted that
prior approval had already been given; however, an 18 -month time limit was placed on that
approval, which has now lapsed and nullifies that approval. According to the applicant the
reason for the time delay was due to environmental studies to meet U.S. Fish and Wildlife
standards for endangered species in and around. the area. When it was originally approved, staff
did not anticipate this requirement.
Mr. Kimura asked how long after the permit was issued did the applicant begin the study
to which Mr. Hull replied he is unsure.
Page 7 of 13
Alisa Haynes, representing Verizon Wireless was present. She stated the environmental
study was obtained soon after the approval, and did take well over the 18 months to complete. It
was found that some species identified were on the endangered list, and they have agreed to do
financial restitution and mitigation actions as a result of the influence the project may have on
Hawaiian seabirds. It was not a huge impact, but was of concern.
Mr. Katayama asked what is meant in the last sentence of Paragraph 7 on general
descriptions of environmental conditions where it references financial restitution and actions.
Ms. Haynes replied funds will be placed back into wildlife services for further protection of the
seabirds; it is a condition required by U.S. Fish and Wildlife. Mr. Katayama asked if that was
the only environmental impact that was found to which Ms. Haynes replied yes.
Ms. Anderson asked why that was not included under the Flora and Fauna section of the
report to which Ms. Haynes replied she is unsure as she did not prepare the initial application
packet. However, it is under the general description of the environmental consideration. Ms.
Anderson stated for clarity that the Flora and Fauna section contains a statement that says flora
and fauna should not be affected, and would. like to distinguish that there has been a noted effect
to the endangered species.
Mr. Kimura asked for the previous height of the antennae that was located on that site
before to which Ms. Haynes replied she does not have the history on that, and does not know.
Mr. Hull stated the current project is not located at the same specific site. Mr. Kimura asked if
the location is in Princeville to which Mr. Hull replied no, it is near the Kauai Humane Society.
Mr. Kimura asked what the normal height requirement would be to which Mr. Hull
replied the agricultural district generally has a height limit of 50 feet; however, utility facility
installations are allowed to go up an additional 20 feet of a respective zoning district's height
requirement; that would bring the agriculture district to 70 feet for utility installation. The
original application requested 120 feet, but at the Department's recommendation the
Commission restricted it to 100 feet, and a variance was required. Mr. Kimura asked why 100
feet is being asked for to which Ms. Haynes replied it is necessary for the objective coverage
areas along the highway and down into the valley area. The structure is considered a co-
Iocatable structure.
Mr. Kimura asked if a condition could be included to require the applicant and landowner
that if asked to co- locate, they sign a document prior to the permit being issued requiring co-
location. Mr. Hull replied under Federal law that telecommunication carriers are required to
make their sites available for co- location. Mr. Hull further explained there was an accusation by
another carrier that some of the companies secure entitlements and prevent other companies from
going up in and around the area, which is the reason for the time restrictions.
Mr. Jung asked the Commission to look at Condition 6 which contemplates the
possibility for co- location. Mr. Hull added that one of the barriers to co- location was the
requirement that any amendment on an existing site required the applicant to come back before
the Commission for review and approval. Many carriers saw that as a reason to obtain their own
Page 8 of 13
site. Condition 6 eases the burden of having to apply for co- location, and is an over - the - counter
permit if it meets the height requirements set by the Commission.
Mr. Kimura asked should another carrier wants to co- locate, would the applicant come
back for another height variance to which Ms. Haynes replied they would not be coming in for
another height variance. In response to Mr. Kimura, Ms. Haynes stated the other carrier could
potentially come in for a height variance if they determined the 90 foot height was not adequate
for them. However the monopine to be constructed is proposed at that height for additional
carriers to be co- located below. Mr. Kimura asked whether she foresees a company wanting to
co- locate to which Ms. Haynes replied yes, it happens very often.
Mr. Isobe asked to clarify that Mr. Hull stated the Federal government requires co-
location to which Mr. Hull replied it does not require co- location, and explained under the
Telecommunication Act of the FCC rules, the Federal government prohibits a carrier from
denying a co- location request from another carrier, as well as providing reasonable, leasable
space. It prevents them from blocking co- location, and ensures that should another carrier
requests use of the space, it has to be made available at a reasonable market value.
Mr. Katayama referenced Exhibit B map of Kaua`i's current telecommunication facilities
sites, and asked if this proposed site is marked on the map. Mr. Hull replied no it is not, and
added the map shows only existing sites; there are others that have been permitted that are not
constructed yet, and not reflected on the map.
Mr. Kimura asked if the dots on the map reflect only the projects that have come before
the Commission to which Mr. Hull replied no, they reflect all the sites.
Mr. Katayama asked if the applicant has approached any of the existing sites for co-
location. Ms. Haynes replied the area was researched for existing locations and coverage
opportunities, but none of them were found to be suitable for their needs. Mr. Katayama asked
what the limitations were to which Ms. Haynes stated the limitations were height availability and
tree lines blocking the RE propagation. Mr. Katayama asked whether a height variance at those
sites would accommodate their needs to which Ms. Haynes replied no, the locations were not
optimal for the coverage objectives.
Mr. Kimura asked for clarification that the tower is 500 feet from the highway to which
Ms. Haynes replied yes. Mr. Kimura asked if the pole is visible from the highway to which Ms.
Haynes replied it would be briefly visible as you're driving by. However the frontage along the
road has thick vegetation that would make it difficult to recognize.
Mr. Dahilig stated recommendations have been included in the report for the
Commission's review. Those conditions are crafted around the Federal Telecommunications Act
of 1996, which determines what a municipal body can and cannot regulate. Though there has
been concern expressed by the public, issues relating to the effects of radio frequencies or radio
waves on health cannot be regulated by the Commission.
Ms. Anderson asked if there are any reporting requirements on the amounts of electro-
magnetic radiation that emits from the cell towers. Ms. Haynes replied the antennas comply with
Page 9of13
the FCC requirements as far as limiting the radiation factors, but they are. not required to report
the amount of radiation emitting from the site as it is already registered when the antennae are
produced.
Mr. Katayama asked what the Department's position is on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service negotiations on the project's mitigation attempts. Mr. Hull replied the Department does
not hold a position, noting they strongly advise the applicant to meet the requirements put forth
by U.S. FWS. In response to Mr. Katayama, Mr. Hull explained the language in the report is
fairly standard when habitat conservation standards are established, and is more anticipatory. No
impact to endangered species has been demonstrated yet because there is no structure at this
time. There is a negotiating process the applicant and U.S. FWS goes through to establish the
impact to a species; that is outside the purview of the Commission.
Mr. Isobe asked if the application is approved, what would the coverage be like. Ms.
Haynes stated coverage would be substantially improved along that corridor of the highway and
down into the valley. Mr. Isobe asked for more specific description of the corridors being
referenced. Ms. Haynes replied she does not have a map for reference but coverage would range
along the highway between Puhi and Koloa and the valley area. Mr. Isobe stated his experience
has been a lot of dropped calls around that area, and stated for clarification that it would improve
the signal strength in that area to which Ms. Haynes replied yes.
Mr. Kimura asked where the applicant's existing tower is located to which Mr. Hull
replied it is in the vicinity of the Seventh Day Adventist Church. Mr. Kimura asked where the
next tower is heading north. Mr. Hull replied it is here in Liliu'e near the hospital. Mr. Kimura
asked whether there are any existing in the Koloa /Po'ipu area to which Mr. Hull replied he
believes there are facilities in Po'ipu, at,the Lawa'i Beach Resort. Mr. Kimura asked to clarify
that this is to enable a signal along the highway to which Ms. Haynes replied it is for the
highway, and to potentially replace another site that is not providing adequate coverage. Mr.
Kimura asked if the coverage is mainly for the public or for emergency services to which Ms.
Haynes replied it would provide services for both.
Mr. Hull added that there is another site on the Haupu mountain range which has been
reportedly problematic. In response to Mr. Kimura, Ms. Haynes stated the coverage is not
penetrating down into the levels needed given the location; it's overshooting the coverage and
Verizon's equipment will be removed.
Ms. Anderson referenced Condition 2, and pointed out the applicant is in negotiations
with U.S. Fish and Wildlife, and have admitted on the record that there may be potential effects
to the fauna and endangered seabirds. With that, she reminded the applicant that this permit may
be changed if it is proven there is adverse impact to the environment.
On the motion by John Isobe and seconded by Wayne Katayama to approve the
Class IV Zoning permit and Use permit, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
(The meeting recessed at 11:07 a.m.)
Page 10 of 13
(The meeting resumed at 11:16 a.m.)
Zoning Amendment ZA- 2014 -6, Amendments to Chapter 8 of the Kauai County Code
1987, as amended, relating to the incorporation of non -zoned lands into the County of Kauai
Agriculture Zoning District. These amendments identify lands not currently zoned by the
County of Kauai and re- designate them within the Agriculture Zoning District = County of
Kauai. [Hearing continued 3/25/14.1
Staff Planner Kenneth Estes read the additional findings of the Director's report into the
record. (On file)
Mr. Katayama asked whether the owners have been identified to which Mr. Estes replied
yes, a public hearing notice was sent out to all the landowners and to landowners within the 300
foot buffer. Response was received in the form of public testimony from Mr. Manini, but they
have not received any formal letters of response.
Ms. Anderson stated it was mentioned it was proposed to change open lands to
agriculture, and asked for the policy reasons behind that proposal.
Mr. Dahilig stated he thinks it stems from past issues with open lands having a greater
amount of unit density than agricultural lands. He provided extensive background on that issue.
On the motion by John Isobe and seconded by Wayne Katayama to send the
Department's recommendations to the County Council for consideration, the motion
carried by unanimous voice vote.
- Zoning Amendment ZA- 2014 -7, Amendments to Chapter 8 of the Kauai County Code
1987 as amended, relating to Article 17 — Nonconforming Use Certificates for Single Family
Vacation Rentals. This amendment proposes to increase annual renewal fees from five hundred
dollars ($500.00) to seven - hundred fifty dollars {$750.00} which shall be deposited into the
County General Fund = County ofKaua`i.
Staff Planner Marisa Valenciano stated a copy of the report is enclosed in the packet, and
welcomed any questions.
Mr. Kimura asked why the increase to $750 and. not $ I.,000. Ms. Valenciano explained
the amount was based on the percentage of staff time calculated along with active TVRs, which
equated to a gradual increase of $750; that amount was determined to be enough to cover the
fees.
Mx. Isobe asked to clarify that the motion to adopt means it will be forwarded to County
Council for approval to which Mr. Jung replied correct.
Mr. Katayama asked if there is an escalation, or does the fee hold until the next
amendment to the fees. Mr. Dahilig replied they do not have the ability to project whether
Page 11 of 13
collective bargaining increases are going to escalate over time, and that when calculating the fee
they just have to show rough nexus as to what the fee is meant to recoup.
Mr. Katayama asked if it is the purview of government agencies to be self - funding with
whatever activity it undertakes as opposed to a public service. Mr. Dahilig replied that this is
one particular program that seemed to meet the criteria that it should be self - sustained based off
of the activity proposed. Mr. Katayama clarified. that there are certain duties and responsibilities
of the Planning Department, and asked whether those activities need to be self-sustaining. Mr.
Dahilig replied that the particular narrow issue of the TVR fees deal with a fixed amount of
people that make a lot of revenue off of their entitlement. He feels it is fair that if you have this
high - performing entitlement you should bear the cost of what it costs for the Department to
regulate it.
Mr. Isobe stated it is his understanding that it is the Department's position that the
amount of the TVR applications is already fixed, and as that number diminishes over time the
relative costs will then increase. His concern is that in this particular instance the Department
has decided to increase staffing and enforcement for TVRs, which has driven the cost up, and is
now trying to cover those costs via fees. It is also his understanding that the County Council has
decided to increase property tax rates on TVRs, and as a consequence, TVRs going forward will
now pay a higher fee and higher property tax. As a result, these particular uses are going to be
under more pressure to produce even more income. He does not agree that all TVRs are
producing at the level that the Department assumes, noting he has been approached by TVR
owners with complaints about the costs the government is imposing for this ]rind of operation.
Mr. Isobe feels there needs to be a balance as part of Departmental costs should and is being
covered by property taxes, which were increase for this particular use, and will be subject to fees
by the Planning Department. His concern is that property taxes and fees are going up for this
particular use, and the County has chosen to increase the fees for this use by administrative and
management decisions that have been made.
Mr. Kimura stated he feels just the opposite, and commented that is the price one pays for
having a TVR outside of the VDA; making something illegal, legal is a small price.
On the motion by Wayne Katayama and seconded by Sean Mahoney to approve and
forward the zoning amendment to the County Council, the motion carried by roll call vote:
4 Ayes (Mahoney, Anderson, Isobe with reservations, Kimura); 1 Nay (Katayama)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Topics for Future Meetings
Mr. Dahilig distributed an updated list on pending applications that will be coming before
the Commission. He noted the following two additional items:
1. ADU bill from the County Council
2. Cell Tower
Page 12 of 13
Mr. Dahilig noted he will be attending the American Waterworks Association Conference
as part of his Water Board duties. Deputy Planning Director Dee Crowell will be handling the
next Commission meeting.
Mr. Isobe stated the Commission recently adopted a rule change, and asked when a
codified final version will be provided. He believes part of the procedures was to start the
evaluation process of the Planning Director in a more systematic way, and asked when the
Commission will begin that process.
Mr. Dahilig replied the County Clerk has filed the rules, and he will follow up to obtain
copies of the official rules for all the commissioners. In reference to the evaluation process, he
'will speak with the Office of Boards and Commissions to see where they are with that process.
Mr. Isobe stated that he is looking for more specific goals and objectives of the Planning
Director in terms of what exactly is being anticipated on a going forward basis. Mr. Dahilig
replied he would go back and look at what he needs to deliver, but noted he thinks there was a
desire to adopt Chapter 14 first, before any move was made on evaluative items. Mr. Dahilig
pointed out that he did provide the Commission with a self. - evaluation along with some goals.
Mr. Isobe asked for clarification that the Commission has not yet approved the goals and
objectives to which Mr. Dahilig replied he needs to check. Mr. Isobe requested some kind of
document to help him understand where they are at this point. W. Dahilig stated he would
double check.
Mr. Kimura asked that Mr. Manini's testimony be included when the item on non -zoned
lands goes to County Council. Mr. Jung replied the meeting minutes do go up to Council.
The following scheduled Planning Commission meeting will be held at 9:00 a.m., or
shortly thereafter at the L3hu`e Civic Center, Mo`ikeha June 10, 2014.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Kimura adjourned the meeting at 11 :42 a.m.
Respectfully submitted by:
Cherisse Zaima
Commission Support Clerk
() Approved as circulated (add date of meeting approval).
() Approved as amended. See minutes of meeting.
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