Input Sought for State Historic Preservation 5-Year Plan

Lahaina Harbor. File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Sonia Isotov

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) is holding community meetings statewide in May, starting next week, to provide opportunity for public input on the development of the 2012-2017 State Historic Preservation Plan.

“Historic sites are tangible evidence of a colorful, rich heritage and provide the community with a sense of continuity,” said Pua Aiu, the administrator for SHPD, in a written statement.

“Community input is essential to help set priorities for the State Historic Preservation Plan and will guide actions over the next five years.”

The meetings will begin with a presentation on historic preservation issues in present-day Hawai‘i. Attendees will be invited to share their own perceptions, including feedback on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and challenges for historic preservation.

The development and implementation of a comprehensive statewide historic preservation plan is one of the responsibilities of SHPD, under grant funding it receives from the National Park Service (NPS).

“When meetings in every county are completed, we will have a clearer perspective of historic preservation issues and concerns throughout the state,” said Faith Sereno Rex, president of SMS Consulting, which is the lead contractor responsible for completing the 2012-2017 State Historic Preservation Plan.

“We also hope to re-energize the community to be more active in historic preservation activities. When people are involved in the planning process they are more likely to stay active through implementation.”

The Maui public meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 8, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Maui High School in Kahului.  Light refreshments will be servied.

Community members may also share their thoughts through the website at www.hawaiihistoricpreservation.com, by email to [email protected], or by mailing to SMS, 1042 Fort Street Mall, Suite 200, Honolulu, HI 96813Phone: Toll free at 1-877-535-5767 (ask for Renee)