Attention everyone. If you are concerned about the plans to site the new landfill in Kalaheo, let your feelings be known to your leaders on Thursday, November 19th, at Kalaheo Elementary School at 6pm. This is your opportunity to voice your concerns and get your questions answered. Many people have approached me about this very important issue, questioning the selection committee's decision to site the landfill in Kalaheo. This is a great chance to find out more information.
Personally, I find it strange that the County would disrupt an active agricultural operation by constructing a landfill in the near vicinity of the farm. As we continue to strive for sustainability, and the preservation of agriculture here on Kauai, placing a landfill in a viable coffee farm seems to be counter-productive. Also, the fact that the landowner is not a willing partner will not only delay the process by years, but also increase the cost substantially. I'm not sure if these factors were considered in the committee's decision.
No community wants a landfill in their backyard. The reality is that the landfill will have to go somewhere. I cannot believe that out of all the available locations on this island, Kalaheo was the best choice. I believe that the better choice would have been up on Maalo Road in Kapaia. This site is far away from neighborhoods, near the existing KIUC power plant (in the event we ever get a waste to energy plant), and not currently being used in active agriculture.
I hope the people of Kalaheo, especially the employees of Kauai Coffee Company, show up in force at this meeting. The consultants need to know what the feelings of the community really are. I understand that they may be soliciting comments for a future EIS. Let your feelings be known. Don't sit back and watch it happen. Get involved.
Mahalo once again Mel, for being on top of important topics and bringing it to the Communities' attention.
ReplyDeleteThis is a very important issue and we agree with your choice and the reasons behind it is true.
Remember the elected official who said because the public didn't make their voices heard, the school furloughs were implemented. We need to take some kind of action, wether it be attending the meetings and letting our voices be heard, or call, write or e-mail the mayor and County Council making sure it's documented as public testimony.