Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-Second State Legislature

Regular Session of 2004

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Water, Land, and Agriculture, to which was referred S.B. No. 2400 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to direct the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to establish the Kapoho Bay recreation area as part of the conservation district.

This measure also appropriates funds for the development of a state recreation area, including restroom facilities for Kapoho Bay Conservation District.

Testimony in support of this measure was submitted by the Department of Park and Recreation for Hawaii County and two private citizens. Testimony in opposition to this measure was submitted by DLNR. Comments on the measure were submitted by four private citizens.

Your Committee finds that in recent years recreational facilities in the Puna District have been diminished as a result of lava flow from volcanic activity. Your Committee further finds that efforts to expand or restore facilities must be increased to offset the current lack of facilities in the area. Your Committee determines that the appropriation of funds for the establishment of a state recreation area at the Kapoho Bay Conservation District will help to accommodate the increased number of campers in the area, as well as provide for proper recreational and restroom facilities to address existing health and safety concerns.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Water, Land, and Agriculture that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 2400 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.