Amid the cacophony of the islandʻs activity, we focus on a microcosm of liveliness unfolding at Lualualei Rd. Nearby, a symmetrical lave rock formation is emblazoned with metalic letters that read, NAVAL STATION PEARL HARBOR, LUALUALEI ANNEX. On the opposite side of that road are a couple of signs that warn, U.S. GOVERNMENT PROPERTY, NO PARKING.
An intrusive parade of trailer-trucks continuously file past to and from the LAND FILL located farther up that road to dump their mysterious load. The constant drone of activity contrasts heartfelt sign-holders in an effort to bring attention to a controversial issue that affects their close-knit community. Their artistic signs resound their message to leave the land for agriculture; not industrial purposes or dumping, especially toxic materials.
Lucy Gay and Alice Greenwood organized this action composed of dynamic residents and supported by KAHEA Org. Nora Lam, a highly respected person within their community, echoed common sentiments of keeping Waianae country; protecting cultural sites; and maintaining the integrity of their home.
A major concern was coastal traffic build-up that would escalate the congestion and endanger the lives of their children. The sole highway in and out of the Leeward coastline is inadequate should there be an increase of vehicular accidents in an existing precarious condition. This would temporarily cut off their community perhaps for hours from the rest of the island.
Randomly, I spoke to a few of the many participants and the consensus was the same. Keala Solomon-Card added that everyone should malama the beauty of the area and use it for more traditional productivity such as agriculture and traditional fishing practiced by Hawaiians.
The Solomon family was well-represented; even Christopher Solomon and his brother visiting from Las Vegas, initially unaware of the issues, participated in support of their ʻohana as their aunt, Lana Solomon opined that itʻs better to preserve agriculture for local farmers. Thereʻs a fear of over-developing whereby displacing farm lands for industrial use which is unacceptable.
Kaohi Leonardi feels one cannot mix toxic dumping with agriculture and industrial pollutions can affect the residentsʻ health. She said details are not understood on both sides to make cognizant, intelligent decisions which may have serious ramification in the future for grass-root communities.
Patti Kamakawiwoole is concerned that many people donʻt understand the issues. "Replacing agriculture is hewa! Children should benefit from the old tradition and practices; donʻt take everything away!", she adamantly expressed.
On the other side of the spectrum is Daniel Gomes who also was born and raised in Waianae. His expertise is of economic development for the community as a consultant. Heʻs of the opinion that Waianae should advance in industrial development similar to Kapolei. His primary concern are for those in need of jobs in Waianae like his daughter without many leaving the area to work elsewhere.
His misgivings throughout the years have been getting up at four in the morning and not returning home until ten oʻclock at night. He felt due to this, he missed a lot of quality time with his family and friends which caused him to lose touch with the ongoing dynamics evolving in his community.
His solution is to have a meeting to clarify points through one voice rather than rely on individualsʻ own interpretation of Waianaeʻs self-sufficiency. This would eliminate misconceptions and present a clearer understanding of the issues. There are many that support his point of view.
Then we have another position from Mr. Yuen, the lawyer for Tropic Land, who in a previous meeting, rudely cut-off Alice Greenwoodʻs words as she explained the moʻolelo of the area. This incited many people to scorn him as he disruptively stated, Tropic Land is not accountable for any upwind or downwind draft effects and that he was adamant that cultural history doesnʻt exist anymore.
Waianae is home to many whom have a keen perception of what they want to see happen within their community. Ongoing controversial issues abrade the community who are passionate in their concept and interpretation on both sides of the debate. It makes one wonder how other communities would react. Iʻm sure Waialae-Kahala community would not be open to an industrial park in their midst or a dumpsite within its neighborhood.
Searching for a resolution, the rain pelted its heavy drops upon everyone present. It was a blessing that begged for attention over the voices of contention. Whether issues of traffic aggravation through build-up; inefficient entrance and exit out of the Leeward coast; toxic contamination and health concerns; displacement of agricultural lands; keeping Waianae country with its beauty for children to appreciate and learn cultural impact of history; focusing on productivity of agriculture and customary fishing rights and historical techniques; or bringing more jobs to the area; the rain let up and surrendered to the familiar sun.
It seemed to tell us that the quality of life is dependent on the lesson; being the sky weeps so life can grow and the sun brings hope for a solution reasonable for all.
Tane
Comments
Upon approaching the State of Hawaii Land Use Commissioners, I thought they looked like ghost from the northern part of US. They really didn't look like they belong here and already their was a gap in our communication. A lack of concern for the people of Waianae as quickly as they entered Waianae they quickly exited..like the headless ghost.
Waste Streaming is the newly formed industry in Waianae all that they need at this time is a permit to continue on Waste Streaming in Waianae. Tropic Land isactually preparing for the 2011 Asian Bankers for loans, as was planned by Nanakuli residence. So, we should see some form of banking systems in set up after the State of Hawaii Land Use Commission approve Waste Streaming in Waianae.
I stronly believe that the Pentagon had contacted the State of Hawaii because they are at this time in violation of Waste Streaming with a License to conduct tranfering of DU from Schofield to Waianae under the NRC Rules.
Is the State Land Use Commission transfering the Lualualei Waste Streaming over to private procurements with the approval of Tad Davis? Therefore the Hawaiian Home Lands are now subject to bunkering too?
Will we all have to redesign our homes to meet city codes for bunkering?