Hawaii County committee postpones Waimea rezoning after hours of testimony

The Hawaii County Committee on Legislative Approvals and Acquisitions on Feb. 25 postponed action on bills 198 and 199, which would change the state land use boundary and county zoning for a 5.349‑acre parcel in Waimea (South Kohala) to allow three neighborhood commercial lots on Mamalahoa Highway and five 0.5‑acre residential/agriculture lots. After more than two hours of public comment—largely opposed—the committee voted to defer the matter to the call of the chair so members, the applicant and community representatives can continue discussions.

The proposal by the Metzler family would restore a commercial frontage on Mamalahoa Highway and reclassify the rear of the parcel to state land use rural and county residential‑agricultural 0.5 acres, according to the bills. Applicant Joni Metzler said the family has owned and worked the property for about 23 years, has secured deposits with the Department of Water Supply for 20 water commitments, and “agree[s] to all the conditions attached to bills 198 and 199,” including complying with county construction and flood‑zone standards.

Supporters and opponents framed the debate around competing priorities. Supporters and the applicant…