We have a short window to submit testimony on two critical bills that could greatly impact our coastline.  Please take action now and submit written testimony by way of fax (586-8504 or 1-800-535-3859) or through the web (no e-mail allowed) before Monday, March     16, 2009.

SB 1318, SD1.  This repeals the Coastal Zone Management Act and eliminates the State Office of Planning.  Strongly oppose.  Talking Points:

1. •The Coastal Zone Management program (Chapter 205A) is the statutory basis for most of our coastal zone protections.  Elimination of this Act would allow, among other things:
   

1. •construction as a matter of right near the shoreline,
   

2. •the destruction or removal of coral, and
   

3. •elimination of beach access and use.
   

1. •The legislature previously found that “special controls on developments within an area along the shoreline are necessary to avoid permanent losses of valuable resources and the foreclosure of management options . . . .”  What has changed?
   

2. •If the intent is to save money, this is a pennywise/pound foolish proposal.  Beaches are critical to Hawai`i’s economy and way of life.
   

3. •We strongly believe our coastal areas need more, not less, protection. 
   

SB 468, SD1.  This bill extends the shoreline setback for all construction to forty feet from the shoreline and requires the counties to account for annual erosion rates.  Strongly support.  The Sierra Club’s Testimony can be found here: SB 468, SD1 - Shoreline Setback.pdf.  Talking points:

1. •Our current statewide setback—minimum of 20 feet—is

   

   dated and dangerous.
   

2. •Given the realities of sea level rise caused by global climate change and the accompanying loss of shoreline-protecting coral reef, a policy of “managed retreat” makes the most sense to protect private property, taxpayers, and public shoreline.
   

3. •The threat of rising sea level is not speculative.  Scientists have documented sea level rise and most project at least a one meter rise over the next century.
   

4. •Pushing buildings back from eroding waterlines is critical to the protection of life and property, the mitigation of coastal hazards, and the preservation of coastal resources.
   

You can make a difference -- please submit testimony now.  Questions?  Call 538-6616 or email us.