By Jan TenBruggencate
Advertiser Kaua'i Bureau
LIHU‘E, Kaua‘i — The proposed 250-unit, low-density resort at Kapalawai is back before the Kaua‘i Planning Commission after its approval last week by the state Land Use Commission.
The Land Use Commission earlier delayed approval to ensure that cultural effects were properly addressed in its decision, a report containing more than 100 pages.
Kaua‘i Planning Department staffer Keith Nitta, who participated on behalf of the county in the Land Use Commission’s proceeding, said none of the commission’s conditions is objectionable to the county.
The commission expanded building setbacks and broadened public access requirements. Nonetheless, opponents of the project are expected to raise concerns when the Planning Commission reopens its public hearing on the property rezoning. If approved, further hearings will be required before the Kaua‘i County Council.
While the project has received considerable public support, there are concerns about the appropriateness of the commercialization of property that has historic features dating back to the last century and even to ancient times.
The 154-acre proposed resort site has an ancient Hawaiian fishpond known as Kekupua, fed by at least two springs. It is also the site of a 104-year-old former family home of the Robinson clan of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau.
Attorney Michael Belles, who represents developer Destination Villages LLC, said the developer has agreed to conditions, which include a 100-foot buffer around the pond and the preservation of the original Robinson family home and outbuildings, as well as all known historic structures.
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