On April 27 after viewing Ho’ike’s Planning Commission meeting regarding the Kapalawai Resort development issue, I felt embarrassed to see the manner in which Commissioners Baldwin and McDowell “grilled” Judy Dalton on her views about this prospective development. Miss Dalton
On April 27 after viewing Ho’ike’s Planning Commission meeting regarding the
Kapalawai Resort development issue, I felt embarrassed to see the manner in
which Commissioners Baldwin and McDowell “grilled” Judy Dalton on her views
about this prospective development.
Miss Dalton represented the Sierra Club
and was asked such inappropriate questions as, “Where do you live, do you own
property, do you have rental property, etc.” Why should one’s home location or
whether they own rental property be a required qualification for any caring
citizen who takes time and effort to express their opinions and feelings on
this very important matter?
It seemed as though Commissioner Baldwin was
using his position like a bully pulpit by belittling and degrading this lady’s
testimony.
However, she certainly gained respect (I feel certain) from
those of us watching her patiently answering all questions and especially with
her response to, “Can you name one independent study that showed tourism was
influenced by our beaches?”
Judy said, “If the tourists don’t come to
Hawai’i for the attraction of our beautiful beaches, then what do they come
for?”
The point here is when any citizen cares enough about the direction
our island is going to testify before any committee, they should not be hassled
or belittled by a commissioner who allows his position to give him a false
sense of power.
In my many turns of testifying before the council and the
salary commission, I have always been shown the greatest courtesy and respect.
Shouldn’t all commissions be held in the same manner?
Glenn
Mickens
Kapa’a
