Bill No. 163, Draft 3

County of Hawaii: General Plan
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COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I

GENERAL PLAN

BILL NO. 163

Draft 3

AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I GENERAL PLAN AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 89-142, AS AMENDED.

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I:

SECTION 1. Purpose. The purpose of this ordinance is to adopt a General Plan in compliance with Chapter 46-4, Hawai‘i Revised Statutes, Chapter 226-58, Hawai‘i Revised Statutes, and Section 3-15, Hawai‘i County Charter. That is, the General Plan is a long-range policy document with a planning horizon of at least 20 years. The General Plan contains value-based principles from which island-wide and geographic district vision statements are expressed. Vision statements articulate those issues and matters that are vital to defining the past, present and future direction of the community. Vision statements capture the character of the island or district community, and express the role and responsibilities important to its involvement in the greater community. Vision statements, together with the objectives and policies of seven planning elements, are intended to guide future planning and implementation efforts. Through technology, the world has become smaller and, while once isolated, our island state continually experiences the stresses of growth and population. The General Plan establishes a framework for greater responsiveness by emphasizing program implementation and regulatory mechanisms at the next planning levels. The General Plan recognizes that public infrastructure and commensurate financing are essential to preserving and sustaining our community visions. The adoption of the General Plan is a commitment to its citizens and our future.

SECTION 2. Ordinance No. 89-142 (1989 General Plan) and all subsequent amendments are hereby repealed.

SECTION 3. The General Plan for the County of Hawai‘i is hereby adopted as follows:

TABLE OF CONTENTs

Chapter 1 GENERAL PLAN REQUIREMENTS *

Chapter 2 GENERAL PLAN PROGRAM *

2.1 INTRODUCTION *

2.2 GENERAL PLAN PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION *

2.2.1 General Plan. *

2.2.2 Development plan. *

2.2.3 Public Facility Plan. *

2.2.4 Short-range compliance and implementation at the County level. *

2.3 GENERAL PLAN REVIEW *

Chapter 3 THE COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I *

3.1 OUR ISLAND *

3.2 PRINCIPLES *

3.3 ISLAND-WIDE VISION STATEMENT *

3.4 DISTRICT VISION STATEMENTS *

3.4.1 Puna District Vision Statement *

3.4.2 South Hilo District Vision Statement *

3.4.3 North Hilo District Vision Statement *

3.4.4 Hamakua District Vision Statement *

3.4.5 North Kohala District Vision Statement *

3.4.6 South Kohala District Vision Statement *

3.4.7 North Kona Vision Statement *

3.4.8 South Kona District Vision Statement *

3.4.9 Ka‘u District Vision Statement *

Chapter 4 GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS *

4.1 ECONOMIC ELEMENT *

4.1.1 Economic Objectives *

4.1.2 Economic Policies *

4.1.3 District Courses of Action *

4.1.3.1 Puna *

4.1.3.2 South Hilo *

4.1.3.3 North Hilo *

4.1.3.4 Hamakua *

4.1.3.5 North Kohala *

4.1.3.6 South Kohala *

4.1.3.7 North Kona *

4.1.3.8 South Kona *

4.1.3.9 Ka’u *

4.2 HISTORIC SITES *

4.2.1 Historic Sites Objectives *

4.2.2 Historic Sites Policies *

4.2.3 District Courses of Action *

4.2.3.1 Puna *

4.2.3.2 North & South Hilo *

4.2.3.3 Hamakua *

4.2.3.4 North Kohala *

4.2.3.5 South Kohala *

4.2.3.6 North Kona *

4.2.3.7 South Kona *

4.2.3.8 Ka’u *

4.3 HOUSING ELEMENT *

4.3.1 Housing Objectives *

4.3.2 Housing Policies *

4.3.3 District Courses of Action *

4.3.3.1 Puna *

4.3.3.2 South Hilo *

4.3.3.3 North Hilo *

4.3.3.4 Hamakua *

4.3.3.5 North Kohala *

4.3.3.6 South Kohala *

4.3.3.7 North Kona *

4.3.3.8 South Kona *

4.3.3.9 Ka’u *

4.4 INFRASTRUCTURE ELEMENT *

4.4.1 Public Facilities *

4.4.1.1 Public Facilities Objectives *

4.4.1.2 Public Facilities Policies *

4.4.1.3 Education *

4.4.1.3.1 Education Policies *

4.4.1.4 Government Operations *

4.4.1.4.1 Government Operation Policies *

4.4.1.5 Health and Sanitation *

4.4.1.5.1 Hospitals *

4.4.1.5.1.1 Hospital Policies *

4.4.1.5.2 Public Cemeteries *

4.4.1.5.2.1 Public Cemeteries Policies *

4.4.1.5.3 Solid Waste Management *

4.4.1.5.3.1 Solid Waste Management Policies *

4.4.1.5.4 Wastewater *

4.4.1.5.4.1 Wastewater Policies *

4.4.1.5.4.2 Wastewater Standard(s) *

4.4.1.6 Parks and Recreation *

4.4.1.6.1 Parks and Recreation Objectives *

4.4.1.6.2 Parks and Recreation Policies *

4.4.1.6.3 Parks And Recreation Standards *

4.4.1.7 Protective Services *

4.4.1.7.1 Protective Services Policies *

4.4.1.7.2 Protective Service Standards *

4.4.1.8 Transportation *

4.4.1.8.1 Transportation Objectives *

4.4.1.8.2 Transportation Policies *

4.4.1.8.2.1 Airports and Harbors *

4.4.1.8.2.1.1 Airports and Harbors Policies *

4.4.1.8.2.2 Mass Transit *

4.4.1.8.2.2.1 Mass Transit Objective *

4.4.1.8.2.2.2 Mass Transit Policies *

4.4.1.8.2.3 Roadways *

4.4.1.8.2.3.1 Roadway Objective *

4.4.1.8.2.3.2 Roadway Policies *

4.4.1.8.2.3.3 Roadway Standards *

4.4.2 Utilities and Energy *

4.4.2.1 Utiities and Energy Objectives *

4.4.2.2 Utilities and Energy Policies *

4.4.2.3 Electricity *

4.4.2.3.1 Electricity Policies *

4.4.2.4 Gas *

4.4.2.4.1 Gas Policy *

4.4.2.5 Telecommunications *

4.4.2.5.1 Telecommunications Policies *

4.4.2.6 Water *

4.4.2.6.1 WATER POLICIES *

4.4.3 District Courses of Action *

4.4.3.1 Puna *

4.4.3.1.2 Education *

4.4.3.1.3 Government Operations *

4.4.3.1.4 Cemeteries *

4.4.3.1.5 Solid Waste *

4.4.3.1.6 Wastewater *

4.4.3.1.7 Recreation *

4.4.3.1.8 Protective Services *

4.4.3.1.9 Airports & Harbors *

4.4.3.1.10 Roadways *

4.4.3.1.11 Water *

4.4.3.2 South Hilo *

4.4.3.2.1 Education *

4.4.3.2.2 Government Operations *

4.4.3.2.3 Hospitals *

4.4.3.2.4 Cemeteries *

4.4.3.2.5 Wastewater *

4.4.3.2.6 Recreation *

4.4.3.2.7 Protective Services *

4.4.3.2.8 Airports & Harbors *

4.4.3.2.9 Roadways *

4.4.3.2.10 Water *

4.4.3.3 North Hilo *

4.4.3.3.1 Education *

4.4.3.3.2 Government Operations *

4.4.3.3.3 Cemeteries *

4.4.3.3.4 Wastewater *

4.4.3.3.5 Recreation *

4.4.3.3.6 Protective Services *

4.4.3.3.7 Airports & Harbors *

4.4.3.3.8 Roadways *

4.4.3.3.9 Water *

4.4.3.4 Hamakua *

4.4.3.4.1 Education *

4.4.3.4.2 Government Operations *

4.4.3.4.3 Cemeteries *

4.4.3.4.4 Wastewater *

4.4.3.4.5 Recreation *

4.4.3.4.6 Protective Services *

4.4.3.4.7 Airports & Harbors *

4.4.3.4.8 Roadways *

4.4.3.4.9 Water *

4.4.3.5 North Kohala *

4.4.3.5.1 Education *

4.4.3.5.2 Government Operations *

4.4.3.5.3 Cemeteries *

4.4.3.5.4 Recreation *

4.4.3.5.5 Protective Services *

4.4.3.5.6 Airports & Harbors *

4.4.3.5.7 Roadways *

4.4.3.5.8 Water *

4.4.3.6 South Kohala *

4.4.3.6.1 Education *

4.4.3.6.2 Government Operations *

4.4.3.6.3 Solidwaste *

4.4.3.6.4 Wastewater *

4.4.3.6.5 Recreation *

4.4.3.6.6 Protective Services *

4.4.3.6.7 Airports & Harbors *

4.4.3.6.8 Roadways *

4.4.3.6.9 Water *

4.4.3.7 North Kona *

4.4.3.7.1 Education *

4.4.3.7.2 Government Operations *

4.4.3.7.3 Cemeteries *

4.4.3.7.4 Wastewater *

4.4.3.7.5 Recreation *

4.4.3.7.6 Protective Services *

4.4.3.7.7 Airports & Harbors *

4.4.3.7.8 Roadways *

4.4.3.7.9 Water *

4.4.3.8 South Kona *

4.4.3.8.1 Education *

4.4.3.8.2 Government Operations *

4.4.3.8.3 Cemeteries *

4.4.3.8.4 Wastewater *

4.4.3.8.5 Recreation *

4.4.3.8.6 Protective Services *

4.4.3.8.7 Airports & Harbors *

4.4.3.8.8 Roadways *

4.4.3.8.9 Water *

4.4.3.9 Ka’u *

4.4.3.9.1 Education *

4.4.3.9.2 Government Operations *

4.4.3.9.3 Solid Waste *

4.4.3.9.4 Wastewater *

4.4.3.9.5 Recreation *

4.4.3.9.6 Protective Services *

4.4.3.9.7 Roadways *

4.4.3.9.8 Water *

4.5 LAND USE ELEMENT *

4.5.1 Urban Designations *

4.5.2 Rural-Agriculture Designation *

4.5.3 Agriculture Designations *

4.5.4 Other Designations *

4.5.5 Floating Designation *

4.5.6 Land Use Objectives *

4.5.7 Land Use Policies *

4.5.7.1 Commercial/Industrial *

4.5.7.2 Residential Uses *

4.5.7.3 Resort *

4.5.7.4 Agriculture *

4.5.7.5 Rural-Agriculture *

4.5.7.6 Open Area *

4.5.7.7 Public Lands *

4.5.8 Land Use Standards *

4.5.8.1 Residential Density Guidelines: *

4.5.8.2 Resort Designation Guidelines: *

4.5.8 District Courses of Action *

4.5.8.1 Puna *

4.5.8.1.1 Agriculture *

4.5.8.1.2 Commercial *

4.5.8.1.3 Industrial *

4.5.8.1.4 Multi-Family Residential *

4.5.8.1.5 Single Family Residential *

4.5.8.1.6 Resort *

4.5.8.2 South Hilo *

4.5.8.2.1 Agriculture *

4.5.8.2.2 Commercial *

4.5.8.2.3 Industrial *

4.5.8.2.4 Multi-Family Residential *

4.5.8.2.5 Single Family Residential *

4.5.8.2.6 Resort *

4.5.8.3 North Hilo *

4.5.8.3.1 Agriculture *

4.5.8.3.2 Commercial *

4.5.8.3.3 Industrial *

4.5.8.3.4 Multi-family Residential *

4.5.8.3.5 Single Family Residential *

4.5.8.3.6 Resort *

4.5.8.4 Hamakua *

4.5.8.4.1 Agriculture *

4.5.8.4.2 Industrial *

4.5.8.4.3 Multi-Family Residential *

4.5.8.4.4 Single Family Residential *

4.5.8.4.5 Resort *

4.5.8.5 North Kohala *

4.5.8.5.1 Agriculture *

4.5.8.5.2 Commercial *

4.5.8.5.3 Industrial *

4.5.8.5.4 Multi-Family Residential *

4.5.8.5.5 Single Family Residential *

4.5.8.5.6 Resort *

4.5.8.6 South Kohala *

4.5.8.6.1 Agriculture *

4.5.8.6.2 Commercial *

4.5.8.6.3 Industrial *

4.5.8.6.4 Multi-Family Residential *

4.5.8.6.5 Single Family Residential *

4.5.8.6.6 Resort *

4.5.8.7 North Kona *

4.5.8.7.1 Agriculture *

4.5.8.7.2 Commercial *

4.5.8.7.3 Industrial *

4.5.8.7.4 Multi-Family Residential *

4.5.8.7.5 Single Family Residential *

4.5.8.7.6 Resort *

4.5.8.8 South Kona *

4.5.8.8.1 Agriculture *

4.5.8.8.2 Commercial *

4.5.8.8.3 Industrial *

4.5.8.8.4 Multi-Family Residential *

4.5.8.8.5 Single Family Residential *

4.5.8.8.6 Resort *

4.5.8.9 Ka’u *

4.5.8.9.1 Agriculture *

4.5.8.9.2 Commercial *

45.8.9.3 Industrial *

4.5.8.9.4 Multi-Family Residential *

4.5.8.9.5 Single Family Residential *

4.5.8.9.6 Resort *

4.6. NATURAL BEAUTY, RESOURCES, AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY *

4.6.1 Natural Beauty, Resources, And Environmental Quality Objectives *

4.6.2 Policies *

4.6.2.1 Natural Beauty *

4.6.2.2 Natural Resources *

4.6.2.3 Environmental Quality *

4.7 NATURAL HAZARDS ELEMENT *

4.7.1 Earthquakes *

4.7.2 Flooding *

4.7.3 Lava Hazards. *

4.7.4 Natural Hazards Objectives *

4.7.4 Natural Hazards Policies *

GENERAL PLAN REQUIREMENTS

The County of Hawai‘i is mandated to prepare and adopt a General Plan pursuant to Chapter 46-4, Hawai‘i Revised Statutes (HRS), Chapter 226-58, HRS, and Section 3-15, Hawai‘i County Charter.

Chapter 46-4, HRS, states, in part:

"Zoning in all counties shall be accomplished within the framework of a long-range, comprehensive general plan prepared or being prepared to guide the overall future development of the county. Zoning shall be one of the tools available to the county to put the general plan into effect in an orderly manner."

Chapter 226-58, Hawai‘i Revised Statutes, states:

"(a) The county general plans and development plans shall be formulated with input from the state and county agencies as well as the general public.

County general plans or development plans shall indicate desired population and physical development patterns for each county and regions within each county. In addition, county general plans or development plans shall address the unique problems and needs of each county and regions within each county. The county general plans or development plans shall further define applicable provisions of this chapter; provided that any amendment to the county general plan of each county shall not be contrary to the county charter. The formulation, amendment, and implementation of county general plans or development plans shall take into consideration statewide objectives, policies, and programs stipulated in state functional plans approved in consonance with this chapter.

(b) County general plans shall be formulated on the basis of sound rationale, data, analyses, and input from state and county agencies and the general public, and contain objectives and policies as required by the charter of each county. Further, the county general plans should:

Contain objectives to be achieved and policies to be pursued with respect to population density, land use, transportation system location, public and community facility locations, water and sewage system locations, visitor destinations, urban design, and all other matters necessary for the coordinated development of the county and regions within the county; and
Contain implementation priorities and actions to carry out policies to include but not be limited to land use maps, programs, projects, regulatory measures, standards and principles, and interagency coordination provisions."

Section 3-15, Hawai‘i County Charter, reads:

"The county council shall adopt by ordinance a general plan which shall set forth the Council's policy for long-range comprehensive physical development of the County. It shall contain a statement of development objectives, standards and principles with respect to the most desirable use of land within the County for residential, recreational, agricultural, commercial, industrial, and other purposes which shall be consistent with proper conservation of natural resources and the preservation of our natural beauty and historical sites; the most desirable density of population in the several parts of the County; a system of principal thoroughfares, highways, streets, public access to the shoreline, and other open spaces; the general locations, relocations and improvement of public buildings; the general location and extent of public utilities and terminals, whether publicly or privately owned, for water, sewers, light, power, transit and other purposes; the extent and location of public housing projects; adequate drainage facilities and control; air pollution; and such other matters as may, in the Council's judgment, be beneficial to the social, economic, and governmental conditions and trends and shall be designed to assure the coordinated development of the County and to promote the general welfare and prosperity of its people.

(a) The Council shall enact zoning, subdivision, and other such ordinances, which shall contain the necessary provisions to carry out the purpose of the General Plan.

(b) No public improvement, project, subdivision, or zoning ordinances, shall be initiated or adopted unless the same conforms to and implements the General Plan.

GENERAL PLAN PROGRAM

2.1 INTRODUCTION

The County of Hawai‘i’s General Plan is the policy document for the long-range comprehensive development of the island of Hawai‘i. The General Plan states the County’s island-wide and district visions for development over a period of at least 20 years and lays out the direction for achieving those visions through stated objectives, policies, standards, and district courses of action. The General Plan guides the form of future development, provides general direction and location of public facilities and services, provides the legal framework for all other components of the planning structure, and establishes the foundation for future community planning. The General Plan is implemented through the promulgation and application of other regulations that mandate its consideration in the decision-making process. Therefore, the planning process must be viewed as a continuous, non-linear and dynamic process instead of a static and linear one.

The essence of the General Plan is articulated in an island-wide vision statement and district vision statements. The island-wide vision statement expresses fundamentals that are important to our citizens and applied to the entire island. District vision statements provide a view of those aspects citizens have identified as important to preserve, enhance, support, and encourage within each geographical district. Vision statements are vital to understanding district community goals, the district’s interrelationship with other districts and the desirable direction for land use.

Preparation of the General Plan and its revisions shall provide the opportunity for citizen participation, review, and understanding.

The General Plan contains the following elements around which the planning process is formulated: Economic; Historic Sites; Housing; Infrastructure; Land Use; Natural Beauty, Resources and Environmental Quality; and Natural Hazards. Taken together with the island-wide and district vision statements, each element’s objectives, policies, standards and district courses of action are intended to guide future actions of the County and its programs, to focus the substance of development plans, functional and facility plans, and to direct funding towards priority public projects.

Each element contains objectives, policies, and, if appropriate, standards and district courses of action described below:

Objective: Indicates a desired long-range goal or direction.

Policy: States the method or strategy that should be undertaken to attain the stated objectives.

Standard: Means a degree or level of requirement; a criterion. As used in this document, a standard is to be applied as a guide.

Courses of Action: Establishes the more precise and definitive discussion of community concerns and problems. A course of action attempts to identify specific alternatives on a community, district or regional basis.

The General Plan vision, objectives, and policies are graphically depicted on General Plan Maps. General Plan Maps show general locations of land use patterns, desirable densities, public and private facilities and utilities, existing and proposed transportation networks, lava hazard zones, government-owned lands, historic sites, natural beauty, and military installations. General Plan Maps are used for planning and informational purposes, may be periodically updated, and are included by reference.

2.2 GENERAL PLAN PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION

2.2.1 General Plan.

The General Plan, as the Council’s comprehensive policy statement for the future growth direction of the island, represents the highest level of planning for the County of Hawai‘i. It serves as the policy guide for all levels of government and the public, and is implemented through the preparation and adoption of development plans, facility plans, and area improvement plans; operating and capital improvement programs; and governmental interagency coordination. Specifically, implementation of the General Plan consists of the following components:

2.2.2 Development plan.

By itself, the General Plan cannot bring about all of the changes and improvements, which are considered desirable for the County of Hawai‘i. Government and community exchange and cooperation are necessary. A development plan serves this purpose and is one of the intermediate steps to implementing the General Plan. A development plan translates the broad General Plan statements to specific actions as they apply to specific geographic areas.

A development plan is intended to direct physical development and public improvements, and may contain detailed guidance for land use and zoning, plans for roadways, drainage, parks, and other infrastructure and public facilities, architectural design guidelines, planning for watersheds and other natural features, and other matters relating to the planning area.

Development plans must conform to and implement the General Plan. When a development plan recommends changes to land use or other regulations, these shall be enacted as separate amendments to the Hawai‘i County Code. Development plans should not be confused with zoning ordinance or other regulatory tools.

It is not mandatory that there be a development plan for each region or district community. Depending upon its purpose, a development plan may be limited in scope, which may largely be determined by time, funding, community input, needs and priorities. The need for a development plan should be assessed considering a number of factors, such as population demand, and the degree to which public infrastructure and public health and safety are challenged.

Authorization to prepare a development plan or to update an existing development plan shall be given by the Council by resolution. The resolution shall state establish the funding source, scope and purpose of the development plan, its physical planning area and the timeframe for completion.

A development plan, at the minimum, shall identify the following:

Financing program. A financing program contains financing strategies and mechanisms by which the public infrastructure will be funded. Examples of financing mechanisms include tax increment financing districts, impact fees, general or special purpose revenue bonds, community facilities districts, and improvement districts. Utilized in conjunction with Federal and State grants-in-aid, development agreements, and other creative sources of funding, these financing mechanisms will supplement the capital improvements program to successfully implement the middle-range planning efforts.
Public facility priorities for the financing program.
Regulatory actions needed by government to implement the development plan.

A development plan may identify:

Incentive measures to encourage private participation in achieving objectives relating to public infrastructure and services.
Public or public/private development initiatives when the private market fails to address certain needs—low-income housing or urban redevelopment for example.
Operational programs by government and the community’s role in planning and implementing the programs. Examples include an after-school program, neighborhood watch program or mediation training program.

A development plan shall be submitted to the planning commission for review and recommendation to the council. The council may modify or amend a development plan by deleting or initiating changes to the plan prior to enacting it by ordinance. A development plan shall be reviewed every five years after adoption.

2.2.3 Public Facility Plan.

A public facility plan is a long-range plan for a public service system, such as solid waste, drainageways, parks and recreation, solid waste, and transportation, or a master plan for a specific facility, such as a landfill. A public facility plan assists a department or agency responsible for the public service system to examine, direct and prioritize its resources. A public facility plan can be as critical to a community’s planning efforts as a development. There are numerous General Plan policies that direct the preparation or update of a variety of public facility plans. Therefore, the planning director must provide support to government agencies preparing public facility plans that affect the island of Hawai‘i. The coordination between development planning and public facility planning is imperative.

Authorization to prepare a public facility plan or to update an existing public facility plan shall be given by the Council by resolution. The resolution shall state establish the funding source, the scope and purpose of the public facility plan, the responsible agency, and the timeframe for completion.

A public facility plan shall be submitted to the Council for adoption by ordinance. The council may modify or amend a public facility plan by deleting or initiating changes to the plan prior to enacting it by ordinance. A public facility plan shall be reviewed every five years after adoption.

2.2.4 Short-range compliance and implementation at the County level.

At the County level, implementation of the General Plan is achieved primarily by way of enacting specific regulatory, funding and program mechanisms in the form of ordinances and resolutions. Short-range compliance is achieved through the adoption of specific mechanisms, such as the zoning code and subdivision codes, the operating and capital budgets, and other regulatory and enabling tools. The General Plan objectives, policies, standards, and courses of action should be reflected with the adoption of these specific mechanisms, and should provide focus and justification for department and agency programs, goals and budgeting.

Adoption of the County’s annual operating budget and capital improvement program and budget is the final step in a comprehensive planning process. As such, the operating and capital improvement budgets should be consistent with the General Plan. To assure progress is made in the General Plan program, the following shall be completed:

Assigning Program Policies: The mayor shall assign the programmatic policies of the General Plan, adopted development plans, and adopted public facility plans to appropriate lead county departments and agencies. The programmatic policy assignments and any assignment changes shall be reported to the County council.
Departmental Strategic/Performance Plans: Under the guidance of the mayor and coordination of the planning department, each executive department/agency shall develop a strategic performance plan that includes the programmatic policies assignments. Each plan shall, at the least, contain departmental mission statements, goals, objectives, priorities, courses of action and success measures and indicators. A departmental strategic/performance plan shall align all General Plan, development plan, and public facility plan objectives, policies, and courses of actions applicable to the department’s role and responsibility. To the extent possible, measurable performance indicators shall be developed. Coordinating government departments and agencies necessary for implementation may be listed. The strategic/performance plans and revisions shall be submitted to the Council for review and approval.
Annual Reporting: An annual report to monitor implementation of the General Plan, development plans and facility plans shall be submitted by the assigned executive department through the mayor for review. The mayor shall submit the annual report to the council together with the capital and operational budgets in accordance with the budget timetable set forth in the Charter.

2.3 GENERAL PLAN REVIEW

Although the General Plan projects desired growth over a long-term period spanning at least twenty years, the County Council shall determine on ten-year intervals whether the General Plan should be comprehensively reviewed. If undertaken, such review would consider the elements of the General Plan and, whether, in light of certain substantial changes in economic conditions or trends, different levels of community needs have emerged that should be addressed through amendments. General Plan amendment procedures are set forth in the Hawai‘i County Code.

THE COUNTY OF HAWAI‘I

3.1 OUR ISLAND

The County of Hawai‘i encompasses the island of Hawai‘i, which is the southeasternmost, largest and youngest island of the Hawaiian archipelago. The land area, 2,578,048 acres, is at least twice the combined land area of all the other islands of the State.

The County is divided into nine geographical or judicial districts: Puna (319,680 acres), South Hilo (252,416 acres), North Hilo (206,400 acres), Hamakua (371,520 acres), North Kohala (85,056 acres), South Kohala (225,088 acres), North Kona (312,960 acres), South Kona (214,656 acres), and Ka‘u (590,272 acres). Each district is economically, socially, culturally, and environmentally interrelated to one another.

The County’s resident population was 148,677 in 2000, more than doubling the number of residents in 1970 (63,468). The County’s resident population is estimated to be 217,718 by the year 2020.

3.2 PRINCIPLES

Our citizens are the heart of our community. Its residents are a mixture of many cultures and backgrounds who value the legacies left by those who have come before them. They respect the personal rights of others, the family and the unique gifts and talents of individual community members. There is a commitment to safeguard our island and its non-renewable natural resources for present and future generations. At the same time, the community’s economic, educational and physical infrastructure must be sound to sustain the quality of life our citizens desire.

3.3 ISLAND-WIDE VISION STATEMENT

The County of Hawai‘i is an attractive community where cultural, social and economic diversity is accepted and respected, where the natural beauty and the ahupua‘a land system is a part of our island and treated as valued resources, where desired growth of the county is balanced with responsible resource management, where people feel safe and secure, where physical infrastructure and public services to support residents and visitors are planned and developed with the consequences of past and future actions in mind, where sustainability is a shared responsibility, and where mind, body and spirit are nurtured.

3.4 DISTRICT VISION STATEMENTS

3.4.1 Puna District Vision Statement

The Puna District is characterized by agricultural activities, growing rural residential subdivisions forming rural villages, small-scale tourist-related activities, rugged coastlines, a low-land rainforest known as Wao Kele ‘O Puna, an active volcano within the Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, and geothermal resources.

There are distinct planned or natural boundaries that emerge between communities. Keaau and Pahoa serve as the principle area for goods and services for Puna Mauka and Puna Makai, respectively. New urban centers are located near large rural subdivisions to provide goods and services to the residents of Puna Makai. Small-scale visitor accommodations including bed and breakfast operations and hotel properties within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park with related uses are offered. Medium-scale resort amenities provide a cultural experience to visitors. Commercial and residential growth within existing villages, such as Kea‘au, Kurtistown, Mountain View, Glenwood, Volcano, and Pahoa, are encouraged and may be expanded.

Low density rural and agricultural uses dominate the landscape between existing communities.

Existing communities are strengthened to provide additional commercial goods and services, and new commercial cores in Puna Makai to service a number of existing subdivisions containing a stock of 57,000+ buildable lots are established.

Industrial activities related to the geothermal resource may be established.

An open space corridors along the Volcano Highway and a historical preservation corridor along the Puna Makai coastline promote a rural/agricultural ambiance.

State Highway 130 (Keaau-Pahoa Road), which serves residents of Puna Mauka and Puna Makai, will be widened to four lanes from the Keaau Bypass to County Highway 132 (Pahoa-Kapoho Road) intersection.

New State/County highways between State Highway 130 (Keaau-Pahoa Road) and State Highway 11 (Volcano Road) and between Puna and Hilo are identified in the Puna Regional Circulation Plan and will be constructed to provide alternate routes for the safety of the residents of Puna Mauka and Puna Makai.

The Puna Emergency Access Road, running through the Hawaiian Acres and Ainaloa subdivisions, will be improved to insure access of emergency vehicles and provides an alternate route between State Highway 130 and State Highway 11 for residents in both Puna Mauka and Puna Makai.

Water resources to both Puna Mauka and Puna Makai are provided through expanded water pipelines and through an alternate distribution method, such as franchised trucking operations.

A comprehensive flood study for the subdivisions between and along State Highway 11 and State Highway 130 will be developed and implemented.

3.4.2 South Hilo District Vision Statement

The South Hilo District serves as the major economic hub of East Hawai‘i fueled by the island’s principal government functions, the University of Hawai‘i, a robust scientific and research base, agricultural support such as shipping and processing, and visitor amenities. Its deep-water port and international airport drive the economic base.

The City of Hilo is a pedestrian-friendly urban community with pockets of sub-communities providing basic goods and services.

The major commercial retail and office functions are within existing corridors and expanded as follows:

Primary commercial core mauka (west) and south of Downtown and Kaiko‘o and in the vicinity of the Prince Kuhio Shopping Center.
Secondary commercial uses in and around the University area foster the creation of a "College-Friendly Town".

Industrial uses are within existing industrial-designated areas, with heavy industrial uses to be generally near the airport and immediate surrounding areas and at Shipman Industrial Park in Kea‘au. Light industrial areas will be within existing designated areas and may be expanded gradually in the Waiakea Houselots area.

Principal resort accommodations are located along Banyan Drive with small-scale visitor accommodations, such as B&B’s and inns, within the urban core and in outlying areas.

Residential uses will continue in existing areas and will expand through a mixture of residential uses/types generally in the Waiakea Uka and Kaumana areas, with appropriate land uses and visual characteristics to foster a sense of community.

Open space along natural drainage ways are maintained to facilitate flood plain management.

Bayfront Parks, Banyan Drive, and the Keaukaha coast serve as natural outdoor recreation areas for both active and passive activities.

The rural communities of Papaikou, Pepeekeo, Honomu and Hakalau are each unique in character having once been robust centers for sugar plantation life. Each community has a commercial core to conveniently support the surrounding residential and diversified agricultural activities.

The growing agricultural industry and the natural drainage ways provide open space between these communities.

3.4.3 North Hilo District Vision Statement

The district of North Hilo has an economy focused largely on diversified agriculture. The dominant villages are Laupahoehoe, Papaaloa and Ookala. North Hilo is characterized by densely vegetated gulches and valleys interspersed with large tracts of agricultural land much of which was formerly in sugar production. Laupahoehoe Point remains one of the most outstanding areas of natural beauty in North Hilo with its rugged coastal point with pounding surf.

These existing communities are strengthened by providing for supportive land uses. Regional commercial uses may be established in Laupahoehoe.

Rural/agricultural uses are situated between existing communities providing distinct planned or natural boundaries.

The economic base is diversified and historical assets of the area, including the former sugar industry, are enhanced. Small farmers are important to revitalizing the agricultural economy.

Businesses are encouraged to maintain the plantation heritage of the area to attract and educate the visitor industry.

Bed and breakfast establishments are available.

3.4.4 Hamakua District Vision Statement

The district of Hamakua has an economy focused largely on small- and large-scale agriculture and retreat visitor uses. Various agricultural crops, ranching, and tree farms have replaced the lands formerly in sugar production. The dominant towns are Honoka‘a and Paauilo.

Hamakua is tropically lush along the lower elevations with densely vegetated gulches and valleys along the coast. The most famous of these is Waipio Valley, which contains taro fields and limited recreational activities, with its waterfalls and tropical rainforests. This district includes the spectacular mountains of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.

Existing communities are strengthened by providing for supportive land uses. Regional commercial uses may be established in Honoka‘a and Laupahoehoe.

Rural/agricultural uses are situated between existing communities providing distinct planned or natural boundaries. Forestry and the native hardwood industries are supported.

The utilization of Mauna Kea for astronomical research is supported at restricted levels and limited visitor facilities are allowed.

The historical assets of the area, including existing ranching operations and the former sugar industry, are paid homage. The historic Hamakua ditch is revitalized to provide water for farms and ranches.

Businesses are encouraged to maintain the plantation heritage of the area to attract and educate the visitor industry. Honokaa strives to preserve much of its historical, architectural character and lifestyle.

Bed and breakfast establishments and small historic hotels are available.

3.4.5 North Kohala District Vision Statement

The North Kohala District is a rural-agricultural community with vast open spaces. Ranching dominates much of the lands, providing open space and scenic vistas. Urban centers include Hawi, Kapa‘au, and Kohala Ranch. The North Kohala District serves as the northern gateway to the Kohala Mountains and its isolated valleys. Kohala is rich in historic and cultural resources from the birthplace of Kamehameha I and early Hawaiian settlements to early Christian churches.

Coastal vistas makai of Akoni-Pule highway from Kohala Ranch area to Upolu Point and along coastal areas from ‘Upolu Point to Pololu Valley provide meaningful open space.

New urban development is centered around existing urban areas of Hawi and Kapa‘au, including expansion of commercial uses in these areas to accommodate population.

Increased employment opportunities are available for the residents of North Kohala by including small-scale development of resort/tourism based activities, such as eco-tours, bed and breakfast and retreat centers, in appropriate areas.

Affordable housing opportunities accommodate the existing community around the villages of Hawi and Kapa‘au.

Access to coastal areas, including fishing and surfing sites as well as to mountain areas are maintained in keeping with the protection/appropriate use of resources.

Kohala Mountain Road provides unique scenic vistas and open space.

The individual identities and characteristics of villages along Akoni-Pule Highway are retained and enhanced by clear limits to development areas and open space guidelines between existing villages.

Historic buildings are preserved and the style of historic commercial buildings is retained in new development in the villages.

3.4.6 South Kohala District Vision Statement

The South Kohala District is dominated by the Kohala Mountains to the north and Mauna Kea to the south. The South Kohala District will remain as one of the world’s premier resort destinations. The South Kohala District will continue as the ranching center of the island with vast open spaces and truck farming will be encouraged in productive areas. South Kohala’s coastal areas are characterized by white sand beaches. A greenbelt open space provides the separation between Waikoloa Village and Waimea.

The hillside above Waimea remains in open space, providing a clear boundary to the village and a scenic resource to the community.

Waimea continues to expand as the commercial, educational, health, and service center for the North Hawai‘i region. The town center is oriented around the Mamalahoa Highway/Lindsey Road intersection area and will stay within the limits established by Fukushima store on the east and the Pu‘u‘opelu complex on the west.

Ranching dominates the landscape and provides open space/vistas around Waimea.

Premier resort facilities in the coastal areas provide opportunities for both visitors and residents.

The coastal areas are enhanced for public access and use. ‘Ohai‘ula, Hapuna State Park and Puako recreational area is a world-class beach/coastal recreational area.

Waimea is an important agricultural area. The farmlands along Mamalahoa Highway and the Lalamilo area are protected.

A "greenway" system within Waimea provides alternative transportation modes to accommodate bikers, walkers and horses.

Kawaihae Commercial Harbor is improved to accommodate needs of West Hawai‘i as well as to ensure that non-commercial boating uses are accommodated/expanded.

Waikoloa Village is an emerging residential and commercial center. A full range of services provides for the needs of the residents in the area.

3.4.7 North Kona Vision Statement

The Kona district continues to be known for its sunny skies, beautiful vistas, and pristine waters, as well as diversified agriculture, historic and cultural resources, casual lifestyle, and friendly residents.

The land north of Keahole is characterized by open space and low density uses with public shoreline parks and access points. Resorts and related uses are located at Manini‘owali, Kuki‘o, and Ka‘upulehu. Residential uses are concentrated in the urban areas between Queen Ka’ahumanu and Mamalahoa Highways.

From Keahole to Keauhou, the land is characterized by urban uses, interspersed with open space and public shoreline accesses. Economic centers are located in areas adjacent to Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway. Historic Kailua Village and Bay serve as the traditional residential, economic and recreational hub, although expansion of Honokohau Harbor, development of nearby business parks, including the unique Hawai‘i Ocean and Science Technology Park, coupled with expanded civic, commercial, residential, educational, and recreational facilities, especially north of Kailua, provide improved opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Residents and visitors enjoy access to traditional shoreline and mountain areas. A ribbon of public recreational opportunities extend from Kailua to Kiholo and beyond.

Affordable housing is available within and close to the urban core and employment centers.

Adequate and concurrent public infrastructure facilities are available throughout the district, including safe and up-to-date roadways, public safety services, along with recreational, educational, civic and medical facilities.

Alternative and accessible public transportation is available not only in the urban core, but also to the nearby and outlying residential areas, with Kailua serving as the system hub. Pedestrian and bicycle pathways are part of the urban area roadway corridors, with traditional and publicly-owned mauka-makai trails utilized to maintain local community contacts and provide recreational opportunities.

Areas mauka of Mamalahoa Highway are characterized by large forested tracts, open space, large 5+ acre agricultural lots and low-density residential use, offering important protection of the Kona watershed and mauka recharge areas. As part of this protection, natural drainageways below Mamalahoa Highway are identified and set aside as open space.

The mauka communities along the heritage corridor between Keopu and Kealakekua continue to offer traditional and longstanding residential-agricultural opportunities, with smaller 1-5 acre farms in the coffee belt adjacent to and below Mamalahoa Highway.

3.4.8 South Kona District Vision Statement

The South Kona District has an economic base that is primarily agricultural focusing on coffee, macadamia nuts, and diversified crops. It has quiet rural communities with services/commercial areas geared to the local community. The upland areas are characterized by native forests and ranching. South Kona history provides religious, social and political significance before and after the arrival of Captain Cook at Kealakekua Bay. Rugged coastal areas in South Kona limit accessibility.

Commercial activities are centered around existing villages along Mamalahoa Highway. Limited expansion of residential and commercial services accommodate the growing community. The individual identities and characteristics of these villages are retained and enhanced by clear limits to development areas and open space guidelines between existing villages.

Limited new commercial uses serve existing population/subdivisions to the south of Kealakekua.

The coastal villages, including Napo‘opo‘o, Ke‘ei, Honaunau, and Ho‘okena, retain and enhance their unique lifestyles and character.

The upland areas, including native forests and ranching areas as well as the undeveloped wild coastal areas south of Ho‘okena, serve as important watershed and open space resources.

The transportation system will be improved to accommodate the inter-regional traffic from the growing communities to the south.

Kealakekua Bay State Park is a world-class area of natural beauty. The coastal area between Kealakekua Bay and North Kona boundary is in open space and accessible for public enjoyment and education.

The rural lifestyle of South Kona is retained and enhanced with commercial development being limited to existing urban centers and by limiting urban density development in the rural/agricultural areas.

Fishing and ocean-based industries are encouraged.

3.4.9 Ka‘u District Vision Statement

The Ka‘u District’s economy is focused on small- and large-scale agriculture, including ranching, with pockets of small- to large-scale tourism. Internationally renowned Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park (HVNP) stretches from the former Kahuku Ranch to the northern border with Puna. This 300,00+ acre park is the most visited park in Hawai‘i with a large hotel and visitor complex. Punalu‘u Beach with its small black sand beach is also a major attraction for both local residents and visitors. Pahala has a rapidly growing visitor industry serviced by bed and breakfast operations. The existing communities of Pahala, Na‘alehu, and Hawaiian Ocean View Estates and pockets of sub-communities provide goods and services as desired by local residents and visitors. The Ocean View community serves as another gateway community to HVNP. The Hawaiian Homelands Commission is providing new residential lots to Hawaiians in Punalu‘u, Discovery Harbor and in the south point area.

Principal commercial goods and services are provided by the three major communities of Ocean View, Na‘alehu, and Pahala.

Unanticipated industrial uses are accommodated to help diversify and support the area’s economy, provided the affected communities are materially involved in the decision-making process.

Residential uses within existing communities and in and around existing and potential economic generators are established.

Permit new bona fide agricultural subdivisions that are built to standard.

Very low-density rural and agricultural uses are encouraged to exist between communities.

Reliable potable and agricultural water sources and systems and infrastructure are developed for existing residents.

Historic non-renewable cultural resources are protected and preserved. This area contains some of the least disturbed remnants of villages, heiaus, burials, and other important components of Hawaiian culture.

Public ownership of County parks are pursued to guarantee recreational resources for future generations. Punalu`u Park is publicly-owned so that natural features and wildlife habitat are protected or enhanced. Whittington Beach Park is expanded with adequate open space available for residents.

GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS

4.1 ECONOMIC ELEMENT

Development of sound public policy requires an understanding of the economic factors affecting the planning area or region. Such factors are largely responsible for growth or lack of growth, and any planning effort must take them into account. In varying degrees, the other elements of the planning process are affected by the economy.

4.1.1 Economic Objectives

Provide an economic environment that allows new, expanded, or improved opportunities that are in balance with the County’s physical, cultural, natural and social environment.
Strive for diversification and stability in the economy by strengthening existing industries and attracting new endeavors.
Promote and develop the island of Hawai‘i into a unique scientific and cultural model.

4.1.2 Economic Policies

Assist in the expansion of the agricultural industry through:

(1) The identification and protection of important agricultural lands by the State.

(2) Development of marketing plans and programs, including the recognition of products produced on the island of Hawai‘i.

(3) Cooperative marketing and distribution endeavors for export and the removal of marketing restrictions on Hawaiian fruits and other perishables.

(4) The development of overseas capacity of Hilo International Airport.

(5) Capital improvements and continued cooperation with appropriate State and Federal agencies.

Encourage the expansion of the research and development industry by working with and supporting the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo and West Hawai‘i, the Natural Energy Laboratory at Hawai‘i Authority and other agencies and organizations.
Encourage the development of a visitor industry that is in harmony with the social, physical, and economic goals of the residents of the County.
Encourage the sustainable development of the fishing industry, various forms of aquaculture, and fresh and sea water-based activities.
Support educational, employment and training opportunities and institutions.
Support a capital improvements program to improve the quality of existing commercial and industrial areas, as appropriate.
Identify and encourage primary industries that are consistent with the social, physical, and economic goals of the residents of the County.
Promote a distinctive identity for the island of Hawai‘i to enable government, business and travel industries to promote the County of Hawai‘i as an entity unique within the State of Hawai‘i.
Identify the needs of the business community and support actions that are necessary to improve the business climate.
Encourage programs and activities that support appropriate emerging industries on the island of Hawai‘i, such as the health and wellness sector, the retirement industry, advanced and high technology, and the film and video industry.

4.1.3 District Courses of Action

4.1.3.1 Puna

Assist the further development of the agricultural industry by providing support services to commodity groups and other organizations such as farmer's cooperatives, protecting important agricultural lands, and requesting and providing necessary capital improvements.
Resort growth should enhance and be in keeping with the area's rural character.
Assist the fishing industry through a cooperative effort with State and Federal agencies.
Support the development and utilization of geothermal resources and by-products consistent with the environmental, social, economic and other goals expressed elsewhere in the General Plan.

4.1.3.2 South Hilo

Encourage the State to provide the necessary funds for the development of the university complex and airport facilities. Provide necessary support services and facilities to aid the development of these complexes.
Continue to implement a program to revitalize historic downtown Hilo.
Encourage manufacturing operations that utilize local raw materials, such as macadamia nut shells and timber.
Assist the fishing industry through a cooperative effort with State and Federal agencies.
Assist in the formulation and implementation of management education and manpower training programs to strengthen the overall skill levels of its work force to be compatible with existing and emerging industries.
Support the development of a master plan for lands within the vicinity of the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo to incorporate a "college town" concept utilizing an appropriate mixture of residential, commercial and other land uses to complement the university's infrastructure.
Explore the feasibility of expanding the Afook-Chinen Auditorium into an athletic-exhibition-conference facility that can attract additional activities and visitors to the Hilo area.
Support the efforts of the Pacific Aquaculture and Coastal Resources Center to renovate the abandoned sewage treatment plant in Keaukaha into an aquaculture center.
Coordinate with the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo to establish an aquacultural program along accessible areas of the Hilo coast for research, demonstration, and development purposes.
Support the construction and development of the USDA’s Pacific Basin Agricultural Resource Center facility.

4.1.3.3 North Hilo

Assist the further development of agriculture. A program to expand agriculture should be developed and implemented.
Work with community groups and organizations to identify and develop potential cottage industries.
Support the development of a native hardwood industry.

4.1.3.4 Hamakua

Assist the further development of agriculture and continue to cooperate with the agricultural sector and other appropriate agencies to provide the necessary services to assist agriculture.
Allow the development of limited visitor facilities that will not detract from the natural beauty of the area.
Develop a tourism industry that will promote small business development by maintaining the plantation heritage of the area.
Diversify the economic base and enhance historical aspects of the area including existing ranching operations and the former sugar industry.
Support the growth of a forestry industry within the district.
Support the growth of astronomical research and development.

4.1.3.5 North Kohala

Aid in the expansion of agriculture through the protection of important agricultural lands.
Resort facilities compatible with the physical, social and economic goals of the residents of the district should be considered.
Encourage the establishment of an open farmer’s market in North Kohala.
Assist in the formulation and implementation of education and manpower training programs to strengthen the overall skill level of the local residents to compete in existing and emerging sustainable and environmentally sound industries and businesses.
Work with communities and residents (community groups and organizations) to identify and develop potential cottage industries and provide flexibility in land use to accommodate these potential cottage industries.
Support efforts to promote small business development that is consistent with the rural, agricultural, and historic character of the area.
Assist the communities and residents in diversifying the economic base in ways that are consistent with the rural, agricultural, and historic character of North Kohala.

4.1.3.6 South Kohala

Assist in the development of agriculture by protecting important agricultural land from urbanization, providing or having provided the necessary capital improvements, such as water, and working cooperatively with the agricultural sector and government.
Work closely with the State and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to provide adequate land close to Kawaihae Harbor for industrial activities.
Recognize the diversity of climate, the quality of the ocean water and the natural beauty of the hills as vital economic and social assets of the region to be protected through appropriate regulations.
Resort development in the district shall be in an orderly fashion and consistent with the physical and social goals of the residents of the area. Utilize tools such as incremental zoning to insure development that will best meet the needs of the County.
Encourage the preservation of the rural, ranching character within the town of Waimea.
Support the growth of astronomical research and development.

4.1.3.7 North Kona

Resort development in the area shall be in balance with the social and physical goals as well as economic desires of the residents of the district. Necessary pollution controls shall be available prior to development. Other necessary support facilities such as transportation and nursery facilities shall also be provided.
Assist in the further development of agriculture, including forestry and aquaculture activities. Necessary capital improvements that will aid agriculture, such as water, should be given priority for funding.
Continue to encourage development of the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawai‘i Authority as a marine research and commercial facility.
Encourage and support the development of Hawai‘i Community College in West Hawai‘i, including the University of Hawai‘i Center.
Assist the fishing and boating industry through a cooperative effort with State and Federal agencies.
Recognize the natural beauty of the area as a major economic and social asset. This resource should be protected through appropriate review processes when development is proposed.
Improve Kailua Village to maintain its viability as a popular visitor destination.
Increase affordable housing opportunities in the Kailua-Kona area.

4.1.3.8 South Kona

Assist the further development of agriculture by protecting important agricultural land from urbanization, and by providing necessary resources, such as water.
Resort development in the area should not destroy the natural resources and historical significance of the area.
Assist the fishing industry through a cooperative effort with State and Federal agencies.
Encourage ocean-based industries, such as aquaculture, in the area.
Encourage eco-tourism and agricultural tourism as regional opportunities.
Establish buffers on undeveloped lands around Kealakekua Bay to assure preservation of the region’s unique environment and cultural resources.

4.1.3.9 Ka’u

Balance development with the social and physical environment of the area. Provisions for orderly development, housing, and pollution controls shall be implemented.
Assist the fishing industry, other ocean based industries, and aquaculture through a cooperative effort with State and Federal agencies.
Recognize the natural beauty of the area as a major economic and social asset. Protect this resource through appropriate review processes when development is proposed.

4.2 HISTORIC SITES

The identity of a community evolves from the past. The Historic Sites Element encompasses our historic past and the recent past, which has seen the immigration of various ethnic groups that have blended to create today’s Hawai‘i.

4.2.1 Historic Sites Objectives

Identify, protect, and restore the sites, which includes complexes, buildings, and objects of significant historical and cultural importance to Hawai‘i.
Appropriate access to significant historic sites, buildings, and objects of public interest should be made available.
Encourage a program to inform the public about the history, resources and practices of the Hawaiian Islands.

4.2.2 Historic Sites Policies

Develop policies to recognize and protect traditional and customary native Hawaiian rights as provided by law.
Support the state in its inventory of historic sites and places, public educational programs, evaluation of the significance of historic sites, and establishment of Hawaiian Heritage Corridors.
Agencies and organizations, either public or private, pursuing knowledge about historic sites should keep the public apprised of projects.
Amend appropriate ordinances to incorporate the stewardship and protection of historic sites, buildings and objects.
Require both public and private developers of land to provide historical and archaeological surveys and cultural assessments, where appropriate, prior to the clearing or development of land when there are indications that the land under consideration has historical significance.
Public access to significant historic sites and objects shall be acquired, where appropriate.
Establish a program to restore significant historic sites on County lands. Assure the protection and restoration of sites on other public lands through a joint effort with the State.
Encourage the restoration of significant sites on private lands.
Support programs to limit public information on the location of historically-sensitive sites.
Encourage the provision of signs explaining historic sites, buildings and objects that are in keeping with the character of the area or the cultural aspects of the feature.
Encourage the incorporation of certain natural features important to Hawaiian culture in land use planning.

4.2.3 District Courses of Action

4.2.3.1 Puna

Support the establishment of Hawaiian Heritage Corridors.

4.2.3.2 North & South Hilo

Support the development of Kalakaua Park and its surrounding area as the Kalakaua Park Heritage Area and the restoration of its historic significance to Hilo.
Identify historic sites within the South Hilo District for inclusion within the Hawaiian Heritage Corridor Program.

4.2.3.3 Hamakua

Coordinate with the community to identify historical sites and buildings for inclusion in a heritage corridor program.

4.2.3.4 North Kohala

Coordinate with the communities and residents of North Kohala to identify historic sites and buildings for protection and preservation.
Encourage the preservation of historic buildings and promote new development, that matches the style of historic commercial buildings in the area.
Recognize the natural beauty and history of the area as a major economic and social asset to be protected and perpetuated as part of the uniqueness of the island.

4.2.3.5 South Kohala

Support the establishment of Hawaiian Heritage Corridors.

4.2.3.6 North Kona

Establish suitable visual buffers for the Keakealaniwahine and Keolanahihi complexes as a condition of rezoning or Special Management Area permits, for nearby properties.

4.2.3.7 South Kona

Support the establishment of Hawaiian Heritage Corridors.
Adopt the Heritage Corridor Plan, which includes lands from Holualoa to Honanau.
Establish buffers on undeveloped lands around Kealakekua Bay to assure preservation of the region’s unique environment and cultural resources.

4.2.3.8 Ka’u

Support the establishment of Hawaiian Heritage Corridors.

4.3 HOUSING ELEMENT

In an economic setting, the construction of housing is an essential contributor to business, industry and employment. The location of housing on the other hand is dependent upon the location of other economic and employment opportunities, such as agriculture or resort developments.

In the physical setting, housing and its residential land use component utilize a significant portion of the County’s urban lands. The placement or settlement patterns and the form of housing are major influences on the environment and aesthetic setting of the island.

From government’s perspective, adequate housing for residents is part of the considerations of public health, welfare and safety. Housing and residential use of land is a generator of government revenue through local real property taxes. The revenues are balanced by significant expenditures of public funds for roads, schools, protective services and other capital improvement projects that service residential areas. Thus, the provision of housing requires the coordination of planning and implementation on all levels of government.

The availability of housing is dependent on a number of interrelated factors, including the availability of appropriately zoned land and infrastructure, and the cost of raw land and its development. The Housing Element must consider future costs of constructing a house and the ability of individuals to purchase or rent these units. Government housing programs, therefore, influence and are influenced by the diverse needs of our residents.

In the collective sense, the Housing Element is related to all other elements of the General Plan. It is most directly related to the Land Use Element. Moreover, the Housing Element is directly influenced by the County’s desired growth directions.

4.3.1 Housing Objectives

Attain safe, sanitary, and livable housing for the residents of the County of Hawai‘i.
Maintain a diversity of socio-economic housing mix throughout the different parts of the County.
Create viable communities with affordable housing and suitable living environments.
Improve and maintain the quality and affordability of the existing housing inventory.
Seek sufficient production of new affordable rental and fee-simple housing in a variety of sizes to satisfactorily accommodate the needs and desires of families and individuals.
Ensure that housing is available to all persons regardless of age, sex, marital status, ethnic background, and income.
Locate affordable housing in reasonable proximity to employment centers.
Encourage and expand home ownership opportunities for residents.

4.3.2 Housing Policies

Formulate a program for housing that identifies specific mechanisms to implement the housing objectives, and adopt ordinances and rules to assure their execution.
Utilize housing powers and programs to accomplish housing objectives and seek out new programs and resources to address the housing needs of the residents.
Support programs that improve, maintain, and rehabilitate the existing housing inventory to maintain the viability of existing communities.
Encourage a volume of construction and rehabilitation of housing sufficient to meet growth needs and correct existing deficiencies.
Industries or developments that create a demand for housing shall provide employee housing based upon a ratio to be determined by an analysis of the locality's needs.
Initiate and participate in activities with the private sector including the provision of leadership and expertise to neighborhoods and nonprofit organizations in the development of housing and community development projects.
Investigate, develop, and promote the creation of new innovative and timely financing techniques and programs to reduce the cost of housing.
Encourage the use of suitable public lands for housing purposes in fee or lease.
Promote research and development of methods, programs, and activities including the review of regulatory requirements and procedures as they affect housing, to reduce the costs consistent with the public health, safety and welfare.
Utilize financing techniques that reduce the cost of housing, including the issuance of tax-exempt bonds and the implementation of interim financing programs.
Encourage corporations and nonprofit organizations to participate in Federal, State and private programs to provide new and rehabilitated housing for low- and moderate-income families.
Increase rental opportunities and choices in terms of quality, cost, amenity, style and size of housing, especially for low and moderate-income households.
Ensure that adequate infrastructure is available in appropriate locations to support the timely development of affordable housing.
Investigate the use of the County's taxing powers as a possible means to increase the supply of affordable housing.
Work with, encourage and support private sector efforts in the provision of affordable housing.
Evaluate the County’s affordable housing program to assure its effectiveness and applicability.
Encourage the construction of specially designed facilities or communities for elderly persons needing institutional care and small home care units for active elderly persons.
Accommodate the housing requirements of special need groups including the elderly, handicapped, homeless, and those residents in rural areas.
Encourage the development of affordable retirement communities.

4.3.3 District Courses of Action

4.3.3.1 Puna

Consider and encourage the use of a variety of mechanisms to provide the necessary infrastructure in nonconforming subdivisions.
Encourage the maintenance and rehabilitation of the existing housing inventory to maintain the viability of existing communities.

4.3.3.2 South Hilo

Encourage the State to provide student, faculty, and staff housing for the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo and the Hawai‘i Community College.
Aid and encourage in a variety of programs for the replacement or rehabilitation of housing units.
Aid and encourage housing projects for low and moderate income families, "gap-groups" and the elderly.
Aid and encourage the development of State lands for housing for all socio-economic levels through leasehold or purchase.

4.3.3.3 North Hilo

Coordinate and participate with the State and Federal governments in providing rural housing programs for low and moderate income families, "gap groups" and the elderly.

4.3.3.4 Hamakua

Aid and encourage programs to rehabilitate and replace the existing housing inventory, including consideration for self-help programs.

4.3.3.5 North Kohala

Require developments that create a demand for employee housing provide for that need.
Aid and encourage programs to rehabilitate and replace the existing housing inventory, including consideration for self-help programs.

4.3.3.6 South Kohala

Require developments that create a demand for employee housing provide for that need.
Aid and encourage the development of State lands for housing for all socioeconomic levels through leasehold or purchase.
Aid and encourage housing programs for low and moderate income, "gap groups" and the elderly.
County-owned land at Waikoloa Village shall be made available for the development of affordable housing.

4.3.3.7 North Kona

Encourage the use of innovative types of housing developments, such as cluster and planned unit developments, that take advantage of the steep topographic conditions.
Require developments that create a demand for employee housing provide for that need.
Increase affordable housing opportunities in the Kailua-Kona area.

4.3.3.8 South Kona

Encourage the use of innovative types of housing developments, such as cluster and planned unit developments, that take advantage of the steep topographic conditions.
Increase affordable housing opportunities in South Kona.

4.3.3.9 Ka’u

Require developments that create a demand for employee housing provide for that need.

4.4 INFRASTRUCTURE ELEMENT

4.4.1 Public Facilities

Public facilities are those infrastructure service systems that are provided, staffed, and maintained by government to directly serve the residents of the County. Public facilities have been grouped into categories of education, government operations, health and sanitation, parks and recreation, protective services, and transportation.

It is necessary to carefully coordinate the provision of public facilities in order to use them most effectively and to maximize the effect of the public dollar. It is equally necessary to realize that the type, quality, capacity and location of facilities and services have a significant impact on the community, the people and the total environment.

4.4.1.1 Public Facilities Objectives

Encourage the provision of public facilities in appropriate locations that effectively service community and visitor needs.
Seek ways of improving public service through better and more functional energy-efficient facilities in keeping with the environmental and aesthetic concerns of the community.

4.4.1.2 Public Facilities Policies

Establish programs to identify and acquire sites for necessary public facilities in advance of need.
Encourage the construction of energy-efficient County facilities.
Establish appropriate service levels for public facilities.
Coordinate with appropriate State agencies for the provision of public facilities to serve the needs of the community.
Develop short- to long-range capital improvement programs and operating budgets for public facilities and services.
Capital improvement and operating budgets shall reflect the objectives and policies of the County General Plan.
Require a six-year, long-term, capital improvements budget by County departments and agencies that shall be reviewed for consistency with the General Plan.
Develop and adopt an Impact Fees Ordinance to fund identified public facilities.
Develop and adopt enabling financing mechanisms that could be used in conjunction with programs to fund new or expand existing County public facilities.

4.4.1.3 Education

Public schools and libraries and their facilities planning are under the jurisdiction of the State Department of Education.

Higher education is available through the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo (UHH), the University of Hawai‘i West Hawai‘i Campus in Kona, and the Hawai‘i Community College. Long-range development plans for each institution are performed by the school and approved by the State Board of Regents.

Educational policies relate to the provision of facilities rather than programs, although it is recognized that the facilities and programs are the tools necessary to improve total educational service.

4.4.1.3.1 Education Policies

Coordinate school facility planning with the Department of Education and the University of Hawai‘i to identify school sites.
Encourage continuous joint pre-planning of schools with the Department of Education and the University of Hawai‘i to ensure coordination of roads, water, and other support facilities and considerations such as traffic and safety, and access for vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian. Encourage master planning of present and proposed public and private institutions.
Encourage combining schoolyards with county parks and allowing school facilities to be available for after school use by the community for recreational, cultural, and other compatible uses.
Encourage the Hawai‘i State Library System to seek alternate sites when public libraries are located on the campuses of public schools.

4.4.1.4 Government Operations

This section discusses facilities housing various governmental agencies and baseyard operations. Public office centers consist of a building or complex of buildings that house governmental agencies. Baseyards are the operational, storage and maintenance centers for public works services, such as those provided by the road and water departments. These baseyards also serve as agency field offices.

4.4.1.4.1 Government Operation Policies

Public office center sites shall satisfy modern and reasonable requirements of accessibility and compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood.
The multipurpose concept of flexibility to satisfy changing requirements should be part of the design for public buildings.
Architecture and landscaping shall reflect the community's attributes as much as possible.

4.4.1.5 Health and Sanitation

4.4.1.5.1 Hospitals

Actual planning of health programs and construction of health facilities are the direct responsibility of the State.

The role of State and private hospitals are determined by the island’s geography and population distribution and the community to be served. Major medical and surgical care, specialty care, out-patient care, long-term care and/or emergency services may be available at the hospitals. The County’s Fire Department provides emergency medical and ambulance services.

4.4.1.5.1.1 Hospital Policies

Encourage the planning, site identification, and development of new health care facilities or the improvement of existing health care facilities to serve the needs of Hamakua, North and South Kohala, and North and South Kona. Site planning shall consider quiet surroundings, convenient and adequate access, and compatability of adjoining uses.
Encourage the State to continue operation of the rural hospitals.
Encourage the establishment or expansion of community health centers and rural health clinics.

4.4.1.5.2 Public Cemeteries

Public cemeteries and veterans cemeteries are managed by the County Parks and Recreation Department.

4.4.1.5.2.1 Public Cemeteries Policies

Develop and implement a cemeteries master plan for the siting of future cemeteries.
Ensure that public and private cemeteries are compatible with surrounding land uses and provided with adequate access and drainage systems.

4.4.1.5.3 Solid Waste Management

The management of solid waste on the island has undergone significant changes in the past few decades. The adoption of the County’s "Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan" in 1993, as further updated, provides a foundation for decision-making that would guide solid waste management funding, implementation and administration on the island. Recycling, waste diversion, Hilo landfill closure, new technologies, and the question of a material recovery facility are a few of the many issues examined in the "Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan."

4.4.1.5.3.1 Solid Waste Management Policies

Appropriately designed and cost-effective solid waste transfer station sites shall be located in areas of convenience and easy access to the public.
Continue to encourage diversion programs, such as recycling, to reduce the flow of refuse deposited in landfills.
Explore and evaluate waste reduction techniques, processes and facilities to lengthen the life of the landfill(s) with energy conversion being a desirable component.
Encourage development and implementation of a green waste recycling program.

4.4.1.5.4 Wastewater

Adequate sewer disposal systems are vital to safeguard public health and to preserve the environment. An adequate system is one that minimizes contamination of the ground water supply and the coastal waters, beaches and waterborne recreational areas and is not a visual and odor nuisance.

Although Hawai‘i County operates municipal sewerage systems, many communities are served by private wastewater treatment facilities or individual facilities such as cesspools or septic tanks. Because over half of the County's population is served by cesspools, there is an increasing need to create a better system than individual cesspools, particularly in highly urbanized and shoreline areas.

The State Department of Health and the County of Hawai‘i jointly prepared the "Water Quality Management Plan for the County of Hawaii" in 1978 and subsequently updated the plan in 1980. This plan serves as the planning guide for development of regional waste treatment systems and the control of non-point source pollution. To implement the management plan, the County has prepared facility plans for various areas on the island. The facility plans identify problems, potential solutions and costs.

4.4.1.5.4.1 Wastewater Policies

Update the "Sewerage Study for All Urban and Urbanizing Areas of the County of Hawaii, State of Hawaii," December 1970, and the "Water Quality Management Plan for the County of Hawaii," December 1980.
Private systems shall be installed by land developers for major resort and other developments along shorelines and sensitive higher inland areas, except where connection to nearby treatment facilities is feasible and compatible with the County's long-range plans, and in conformance with State and County requirements.
Designate treatment plant sites, sewerage pump station sites, and sewer easements according to the facility plans to facilitate their acquisition.
Seek State and Federal funds to finance the construction of proposed sewer systems and improve existing systems.
Utilize plans for wastewater reclamation and reuse for irrigation and biosolids composting (remaining solids from the treatment of wastewater is processed into a reusable organic material) where feasible and needed.

4.4.1.5.4.2 Wastewater Standard(s)

There shall be a minimum of visual and odor pollution emanating from sewerage treatment facilities.

4.4.1.6 Parks and Recreation

Recreational facilities may be defined in two categories: Resource-based and Facility-based. Resource-based parks provide public access to and enjoyment of an outstanding natural or cultural resource. Valued resources include sandy beaches, non-sandy but protected swimming areas, scenic areas and hiking areas. The Federal and State governments play a dominant role in establishing resource-based parks such as the Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and Hapuna Beach State Park. Resource-based parks developed by the County are primarily beach parks. The other park category is facility-based parks. These types of parks are primarily developed by the County and provide for organized, spectator, or informal play recreational activities that are not dependent upon a natural resource. Playfields, gymnasiums, swimming pool complexes, and tennis courts are just some examples of facility-based parks.

4.4.1.6.1 Parks and Recreation Objectives

Provide a wide variety of recreational opportunities for the residents and visitors of the County.
Maintain the natural beauty of resource-based recreation areas.
Provide a diversity of environments for active and passive pursuits.

4.4.1.6.2 Parks and Recreation Policies

Strive to equitably allocate facility-based parks among the districts relative to population using public input to determine the locations and types of facilities.
Improve existing public facilities for optimum usage.
Recreational facilities shall reflect the natural, historic, and cultural character of the area.
The use of land adjoining recreation areas shall be compatible with community values, physical resources, and recreation potential.
The "County of Hawaii Recreation Plan" shall be updated to reflect newly identified recreational priorities.
Develop short- and long-range capital improvement programs and plans for recreational facilities that are consistent with the General Plan.
Provide multiple use facilities and a broad recreational program for all age groups, with special considerations for the handicapped, the elderly, and young children.
Coordinate recreational programs and facilities with governmental and private agencies and organizations. Innovative ideas for improving recreational facilities and opportunities shall be considered.
Develop local citizen leadership and participation in recreation planning, maintenance, and programming.
Adopt an on-going program of identification, designation, and acquisition of areas with existing or potential recreational resources, such as land with sandy beaches and other prime areas for shoreline recreation, in cooperation with appropriate governmental agencies.
Public access to the shoreline and public hunting areas shall be provided in accordance with an adopted program of the County of Hawai‘i.
Develop a network of pedestrian access trails to places of scenic, historic, natural or recreational values. This system of trails shall provide, at a minimum, an island-wide route connecting major parks and destinations.
Establish a program to inventory ancient trails, cart roads and old government roads in coordination with the State.
Develop facilities and safe pathway systems for walking, jogging, and biking activities.
Develop a recreation information dissemination system for the public's use.
Consider alternative sources of funding for recreational facilities, including impact fees.

4.4.1.6.3 Parks And Recreation Standards

Regional Park: Is a major recreation area serving several districts and providing indoor and outdoor activities. Is a major center for spectator sports and cultural activities. May include features of historic, geological, and horticultural interests. In the vicinity of major populated areas.

Facilities may include multi-purpose building, auditorium, gymnasium, swimming pool, adequate parking, and facilities for spectator sports: football, baseball, softball, track field, tennis, basketball and volleyball.

District Park: Offers diversified types of recreational activities to an entire district that includes indoor and outdoor sports. Located within a district consisting of several populated communities.

Facilities may include gymnasium with office, storage, restrooms, showers, a center for community and recreational programs, swimming pool, play area and equipment for young children, courts for basketball, tennis, and volleyball, ballfields for soccer, baseball, softball, and football; night lights, and parking.

Community Park: Serves surrounding urban areas, and entire communities in rural areas. Provides active and passive activities. Located within the center of the community or several neighborhoods.

Facilities may include multi-purpose building, gymnasium (where not serviceable from a district park), courts for basketball, volleyball and tennis, ballfields for softball/baseball, soccer, football; play area and equipment for young children, walking and jogging paths, picnic and passive area, night lights and parking.

Neighborhood Park: Provides open space in urbanizing areas for the general aesthetic enjoyment of the outdoors, play areas for young children, and a social gathering place for the neighborhood. Located within the center of the neighborhood and preferably adjacent to a school.

Facilities may include restrooms, drinking water, walking and jogging paths (bike and skating paths), courts for basketball, volleyball and tennis, ballfields for tetherball, baseball/softball and soccer, play area and equipment for young children, and parking.

Community Center: Is a major center for spectator sports, cultural and social activities. Size depends on facilities proposed and accessory uses.

Facilities may include multipurpose building, auditorium, gymnasium, facilities for spectator sports, swimming facility, and parking.

Parks for General Use: Are centered around a major natural asset, such as a sandy beach, a prime forest, or a volcanic feature and includes historic sites whenever feasible. Designed to accommodate users from throughout the County.

Beach parks provide opportunities for swimming/sunbathing, surfing, camping, fishing, boating, nature study, and other pastimes. Every section of the island should be adequately served. Facilities depend on size and intensity of use but should include restrooms with showers, picnic facilities, a defined tent camping area when allowed, drinking water, parking, p