04-09-2019, 11:51 AM
Thanks HiloPuna, I appreciate the background details, and info on behind the scenes maneuvering following these events.
Before I moved to Hawaii, I lived in a river valley which flooded on average every 7 years. Disaster level flooding, not high-water-on-the-road for a few days flooding which occurred more frequently. Two towns nearby were moved over the decades as it was easier to relocate than be subjected to the regular damage which occurred.
Having experienced both disasterous floods and several lava flows, I don't view the aftermath of flood or lava flow as substantially different. I know many people, most people would consider the lava flow more dangerous, as during the 2018 eruption every close family member called me regularly trying to get me to leave the island for my safety. Nobody called during the 50+ inches of rain from Hurricane Lane. Lava can really load fear into the human psyche.
So Hanalei Valley vs Puna Lava is part perception, part inclination, ability, and disposition. In Puna, it's sad to say that Harry Kim seems like he's taking the attitude of I-Got-Mine, I-Had-Mine, and if you're a property owner in the LERZ, too bad. I can't help thinking a younger mayor would make a different decision, viewing the situation with greater energy and more of a can do attitude, an inclination to rebuild, and the prospect that residents could enjoy their property as long or longer than some who rebuild in flood zones throughout Hawaii and the mainland.
Before I moved to Hawaii, I lived in a river valley which flooded on average every 7 years. Disaster level flooding, not high-water-on-the-road for a few days flooding which occurred more frequently. Two towns nearby were moved over the decades as it was easier to relocate than be subjected to the regular damage which occurred.
Having experienced both disasterous floods and several lava flows, I don't view the aftermath of flood or lava flow as substantially different. I know many people, most people would consider the lava flow more dangerous, as during the 2018 eruption every close family member called me regularly trying to get me to leave the island for my safety. Nobody called during the 50+ inches of rain from Hurricane Lane. Lava can really load fear into the human psyche.
So Hanalei Valley vs Puna Lava is part perception, part inclination, ability, and disposition. In Puna, it's sad to say that Harry Kim seems like he's taking the attitude of I-Got-Mine, I-Had-Mine, and if you're a property owner in the LERZ, too bad. I can't help thinking a younger mayor would make a different decision, viewing the situation with greater energy and more of a can do attitude, an inclination to rebuild, and the prospect that residents could enjoy their property as long or longer than some who rebuild in flood zones throughout Hawaii and the mainland.
"I'm at that stage in life where I stay out of discussions. Even if you say 1+1=5, you're right - have fun." - Keanu Reeves