Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Land Conservation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
PONC annual report: county has conserved about 10,800 acres; commissioners asked for maps and filled vacancies
Summary
The Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission’s 2024 report showed approximately 10,800 acres acquired through county conservation efforts; councilmembers asked the administration for an island‑wide map of parcels and for updates on PONC vacancies.
The Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission’s 2024 report, transmitted to the Communications Reports and Council Oversight Committee on March 18, records that the county has acquired roughly 10,800 acres through fee‑simple purchases and conservation easements and provides updates on land stewardship and a prioritized acquisition list.
Why it matters: PONC‑funded acquisitions preserve access, habitat and culturally important lands. Councilmembers praised the long‑term work of community volunteers and commissioners who review and score applications and urged improved public information and administration processes to keep stewardship and maintenance funding flowing to nonprofit trustees.
Discussion and follow‑up requests: Councilmember Kleinfelder noted the 6,000 acres in conservation easements and roughly 4,000 acres held in fee simple for a total near 10,800 acres. Councilmember Inaba thanked commission volunteers. Several councilmembers asked for an island‑wide map showing the location of PONC‑funded properties; Deputy Managing Director American Nishimoto said the administration would take the request back. Councilmember Kaguewata asked about current vacancies on the PONC and was told by EA (Executive Aide) Alameda that the commission had three vacancies (not including a new nominee) and that at least one candidate was scheduled to be added to the April 15 General Legislative and Administrative Committee (GLAC) agenda.
Committee action: Councilmember Inaba moved to close the file on Communication 166; Councilmember Eustace seconded. The motion passed with 7 ayes; Councilmembers Michelle Galimba and Ashley Kurkowitz were recorded as excused.
Ending: Councilmembers thanked finance and the administrators for recent changes to maintenance funding administration and for nonprofit stewardship partners who manage conserved lands. The committee closed the file on the annual PONC report and requested follow‑up on vacancies and an island‑wide parcel map.
