Just about a year ago, I started a petition opposing a bill that proposed the development of a boat ramp and possible boat harbor in Puko’o, Molokai. In that effort I was able to collect almost 300 signatures from people who were similarly concerned about the possible implications that would result from the installation of such a ramp and facility. 

One year later and the issue is still being pursued by community members who believe that the Mana’e community wants and needs a boat ramp somewhere on the east end. This pursuit has resulted in the inclusion of a recommendation on the East End Policy Statement Revision that states: “A paved East End boat launching ramp in the vicinity of the North Shore fishing areas is a strong community priority. The location will require protected, deep water launch and retrieve capabilities.” 

Being a lifelong resident of Mana’e, I feel that I am able to say that a good share (not all) of Mana'e residents share the value and see the need to practice resource conservation and preserve our lifestyles. The potential that this project has to change and negatively affect those values is not worth the risk, we have a lot to lose. The life that Mana’e provides us is a simple one, and its the reason why many of us never want to leave.

The construction of a boat ramp contradicts and threatens what so many of us passionately protect and value. How much are we willing to compromise for sake of convenience? If resource conservation, lifestyle preservation, and maintaining the integrity of what makes Mana’e, Mana’e are things that are important to you I hope you’ll sign this petition which opposes the construction of a boat ramp in East Molokai.

The East End Policy statement revision and recommendations are set to be reviewed at a meeting on February 25, 2016 at 3PM at Kalaniana'ole Hall. I am hoping to collect as many signatures before then to be submitted at the meeting. 

THIS PETITION OPPOSES THE PLANNING, DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BOAT RAMP IN PUKO’O ALONG WITH ANY FEASIBILITY STUDIES FOR A NEW SMALL BOAT RAMP AND/OR HARBOR TO BE LOCATED IN EAST MOLOKAI.