Honorable Calvin K.Y. Say

Speaker, House of Representatives

Twenty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2001

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Water and Land Use, to which was referred H.C.R. No. 56 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this concurrent resolution is to address safety concerns of jet ski owners and users in Hilo Bay on the island of Hawaii by requesting the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to reevaluate the existing boundaries of the Hilo Bay Recreational Thrill Craft Zone (Zone).

DLNR offered comments.

Your Committee finds that the challenge is to find a suitable area that balances the needs of a variety of users of Hilo Bay. The existing Zone has its drawbacks. Because it is located almost one mile from shore, assistance is not readily available in case of equipment failure or injury. Moreover, this Zone is also susceptible to rogue waves that have caused accidents. At the same time, however, an alternative site cannot interfere with commercial harbor operations or outrigger canoe training and racing areas. Your Committee hopes DLNR will find a site that will be acceptable to all parties involved.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Water and Land Use that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of H.C.R. No. 56 and recommends its adoption.