State council implores government to halt aerial attacks at Parent-Teacher Association

Hawaii County Council Urges Halting Military Activities at Pohakuloa Training Area

In a unanimous vote, the Hawaii County Council has called upon the state to halt military activities at the Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii Island. The resolution, introduced by Councilmember Rebecca Villegas, was passed with a vote of 9-0.

The council members emphasized the importance of honoring Hawaii's cultural values and trust obligations by acting with the "aloha spirit," prioritizing health, safety, and environmental stewardship. Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz stated, "It's not just about asking the military to acknowledge the hurt and the harm done. It's about demanding action. It sends a very clear message that we will not continue to accept the status quo and that the community will not quietly bear the burden of decisions made far away by those who don't even live here."

The resolution also demands a full Ka Pa'akai analysis to protect Native Hawaiian cultural practices and resources. It calls for rejecting land swaps and lease renewals with the military unless strict cleanup and restoration conditions are met. This action follows a 2019 Hawaii Supreme Court ruling that found the state failed to adequately oversee military compliance and cleanup efforts since the land was leased in 1964.

Environmental contamination from hazardous materials like white phosphorus and depleted uranium, along with damage from wildfires linked to military activities, were cited as concerns. Retired schoolteacher Joey Watts shared his personal experience, stating that the Pohakuloa Training Area has been damaged by military activities over the years.

While resolutions have no legal binding, council members expressed hope that their concerns would be heard. Cristina Holt stated, "While resolutions have no legal binding, we hope the mayor hears our concerns." Skye Narvaez, who testified at the meeting, urged Gov. Josh Green to cease all leases.

Dozens of residents testified in support of the measure, while only two people opposed it during the public hearing. Councilwoman Michelle Galimby, however, noted the need for balance, stating, "I'm in favor of this resolution but ... I think there is another side to this. We do live in a republic and a democracy and I don't take that for granted."

Mary Begier, military affairs committee chair for the Hawaii Island Chamber of Commerce, spoke against the resolution, while Vaughn Cook, vice president of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Hawaii, testified against the resolution via Zoom.

Copies of the resolution will be sent to Hawaii's governor, Josh Green, mayor, state legislators, relevant state agencies, and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. The council's action marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to address the concerns surrounding the Pohakuloa Training Area.

State council implores government to halt aerial attacks at Parent-Teacher Association